Sam Koch opened his first retail skate shop and skate park in 2002. The name “Life” sprang from Sam’s gratitude at having been given a second chance through addiction recovery. In the nearly two decades since, Life has grown to a manufacturing company that builds decks from scratch, pressing and shaping the material themselves in an unusual and rare process – one you won’t find in just about any other small operation. This journey has helped Sam and his team guide generations of fans to not only land new tricks, but in some cases overcome life challenges similar to the ones Sam faced himself. This is a huge part of why the whole Life crew takes such immense pride in what they do.
In addition to being painstakingly crafted, every Life deck is distinctively printed – individually emblazoned with lino block graphics carved by regional artists. The results can be found under the feet of top skateboarders across the country and beyond, helping skaters achieve their goals and refine their craft. But they’re just as likely to be hung admiringly on the wall as an object of art. Sam’s good either way: “We build them to be ridden,” he says with a smile. “But that works too.”
Visit www.lifeskateboard.com for more.
Go to VisitIndiana.com/INcrowd to meet the IN Crowd and see what amazing things people are doing in Indiana.
