Frankie Gerwer

Full Name

Frankie Gerwer

Birth Date

1974

Birth Place

United States (specific city not widely documented)

Nationality

American

Physical Stats

• Height: Not widely documented
• Stance: Regular (left foot forward)

Active Years

1990s–present

Current Status

Active professional skateboarder, Anti Hero team rider

Introduction

Frankie Gerwer is a legendary figure in skateboarding, celebrated for his raw, powerful style and his historic achievement as the first skateboarder to successfully kickflip the infamous Wallenberg Set. A long-time member of the Anti Hero Skateboards team, Gerwer embodies the gritty, no-nonsense aesthetic that defines the brand and the San Francisco skateboarding scene he calls home.

Known for his fearless approach to massive gaps and his ability to skate some of the most challenging spots in the world, Gerwer has maintained a career spanning three decades while staying true to the core values of skateboarding culture. His Wallenberg kickflip in 1999 remains one of the most iconic tricks in skateboarding history, a feat that stood as a testament to what was possible on a skateboard for years.

Beyond his skating, Gerwer is respected for his authenticity, his loyalty to the Anti Hero family, and his role in maintaining skateboarding’s counter-cultural spirit. He represents the skater’s skater—respected by peers for his commitment to the craft and his unwillingness to compromise his approach to skateboarding.

Early Life and Background

Introduction to Skateboarding

Frankie Gerwer discovered skateboarding during his childhood in the 1980s. Growing up during skateboarding’s transition from the vert-dominated 1980s to the street-skating explosion of the 1990s, Gerwer developed his skills on the streets and skate parks of his local area.

Early Skateboarding Scene

The late 1980s and early 1990s were formative years for Gerwer: - Skateboarding’s shift from vert to street was occurring - Independent video magazines were documenting the culture - The raw, DIY ethos of skateboarding appealed to Gerwer’s personality - Early influences included the emerging street skating pioneers

San Francisco Connection

Gerwer’s connection to San Francisco would prove crucial to his career: - Drawn to the city’s legendary skate spots - Attracted to the counter-cultural vibe of SF skate scene - The city’s hills, gaps, and unique terrain suited his developing style - Eventually relocated to become part of the SF skateboarding community

Style Development

Even as a young skater, Gerwer showed characteristics that would define his career: - Fearlessness - Willing to attempt obstacles others avoided - Raw power - Aggressive approach to spots - Gap skating - Natural affinity for jumping over obstacles - Authenticity - Genuine approach that resonated with core skaters

Anti Hero Connection

The Anti Hero Skateboards brand, founded by Julien Stranger in 1995, would become Gerwer’s professional home: - Anti Hero’s raw aesthetic matched Gerwer’s approach - The brand’s anti-establishment ethos appealed to him - Connection to the SF scene through Anti Hero - Would become one of brand’s longest-tenured riders

Early Sponsorship

Gerwer’s talent attracted attention in the 1990s: - Early flow sponsorship leading to formal relationships - Recognition for his unique approach to difficult spots - Building reputation among peers and industry figures - Foundation for professional career

The 1990s Skateboarding Culture

Coming of age during a pivotal era: - 1990s street skating revolution - Gerwer part of generation defining modern street skating - Video magazine era - 411VM and other videos documenting the scene - Zine culture - DIY publications covering underground skating - Pre-internet era - Reputation built through word-of-mouth and video parts

Building a Reputation

Before becoming a household name, Gerwer built his reputation through: - Local SF scene recognition - Appearances in video magazines - Word-of-mouth among skaters who witnessed his skating - Consistent output of progressive skating

Foundation for Wallenberg

The skills that would lead to the Wallenberg achievement were developed during these early years: - Gap skating expertise - Kickflip consistency - Mental preparation for massive obstacles - Physical conditioning for impact

Early Video Appearances

Gerwer began appearing in videos in the mid-to-late 1990s: - Anti Hero video productions - Independent video magazine features - Building toward legendary status - Foundation for historic Wallenberg kickflip

Personal Philosophy Development

The values that would define Gerwer’s career developed early: - Loyalty to brands and people - Authenticity in skateboarding - Rejection of mainstream commercialization - Focus on skating over fame

Character Formation

The experiences of the 1990s shaped Gerwer’s character: - Humble beginnings in skateboarding culture - Appreciation for skateboarding’s counter-cultural roots - Respect for those who came before - Determination to push boundaries

Career Chronology

Early Career and Anti Hero Beginnings (1990s)

Joining Anti Hero (Mid-1990s)

Frankie Gerwer became part of Anti Hero Skateboards during the brand’s formative years: - Joined the Anti Hero team in the mid-1990s - Part of the second generation of Anti Hero riders - Connection to Julien Stranger and the SF scene - Shared the team’s raw, uncompromising ethos

Video Magazine Era (1990s)

Gerwer’s early career coincided with the video magazine boom: - Appearances in 411VM (Video Magazine) - Features in various independent productions - Building reputation through distributed VHS content - Pre-internet exposure to global audience

The Wallenberg Kickflip (1999)

The Wallenberg Set

The Wallenberg Set is one of skateboarding’s most famous and feared obstacles: - Located at Wallenberg Traditional High School in San Francisco - Four massive concrete steps (approximately 6-7 feet tall) - Total drop of roughly 20+ feet - Long considered one of skateboarding’s ultimate tests

Historic Achievement (1999)

In 1999, Gerwer accomplished what many thought impossible: - First skateboarder to kickflip the Wallenberg Set - Required massive commitment and precision - Kickflip rotation at high speed down enormous gap - Clean landing that validated the attempt

Impact of the Trick

The Wallenberg kickflip immediately became legendary: - Featured in Anti Hero’s “Kung Fu Grip” - Spread through skateboarding community rapidly - Demonstrated new possibilities for gap skating - Cemented Gerwer’s place in skateboarding history

Historical Significance

The trick’s place in skateboarding history: - Remained a benchmark for years - Inspired generations of skaters to attempt Wallenberg - Demonstrated that “impossible” was temporary - One of the most iconic tricks of the 1990s

Anti Hero Video Parts and Career Development (2000s)

Anti Hero Video Contributions

Throughout the 2000s, Gerwer was featured in Anti Hero productions: - “Kung Fu Grip” (1999) - Wallenberg kickflip featured - Various Anti Hero team videos - Consistent output of powerful skating - Maintained presence in brand’s identity

SF Scene Leadership

Gerwer became a leader in the San Francisco skate scene: - Respected figure among local skaters - Knowledge of SF’s legendary spots - Mentorship of younger skaters - Keeper of SF skateboarding culture

Continued Gap Skating

Beyond Wallenberg, Gerwer continued skating massive obstacles: - Various SF gaps and stairs - Featured spots in Thrasher Magazine - Consistently progressive approach - Fearless attitude toward danger

Later Career and Longevity (2010s-present)

Sustained Professional Career

Gerwer maintained professional status into his 40s: - Continued Anti Hero team membership - Regular video appearances - Selective but impactful footage - Respected elder statesman of the team

“Beauty and the Beast” Tours

Participated in Anti Hero’s legendary tours: - Anti Hero vs. Girl/Chocolate tour series - Featured in tour videos and articles - Showed competitive but fun spirit - Connected with younger generation

Thrasher Magazine Features

Continued coverage in skateboarding’s bible: - Photo features and interviews - Coverage of legendary status - Recognition for career contributions - Wallenberg kickflip retrospectives

Competition and Contest Career

Anti Hero Approach to Contests

Gerwer was never primarily a contest skater: - Focus on video parts and street skating - Occasional contest appearances - Preferred authentic street skating - Rejection of contest-focused career

Tampa Pro and Major Contests

Occasional appearances in major events: - Tampa Pro participation - Independent contest appearances - Respect for contest skaters but different focus - Authentic approach over competitive points

Sponsorship History

Anti Hero Skateboards (Primary)

Gerwer’s primary and longest sponsorship: - Member since mid-1990s - One of brand’s longest-tenured riders - Featured in all major video productions - Embodied Anti Hero ethos perfectly

Supporting Sponsors

Additional sponsors throughout career: - Truck and wheel companies - Various apparel sponsors - Hardgoods and accessory brands - Selective about brand alignment

Career Longevity

Remarkable career span: - 30+ years in professional skateboarding - Consistent Anti Hero team membership - Adapted skating as physical abilities changed - Maintained relevance and respect

Video Part Legacy

Key Video Appearances

Significant video parts throughout career: - “Kung Fu Grip” (1999) - Wallenberg kickflip - Various Anti Hero team videos - Thrasher Magazine productions - Independent video features

Style Documentation

Videos captured Gerwer’s unique approach: - Raw, powerful skating - Massive gap attempts - SF spot expertise - Authentic personality

Career Statistics and Achievements

The Wallenberg Kickflip

• 1999 - First kickflip of Wallenberg Set
• Remained one of most iconic tricks in history
• Inspired countless attempts by others
• Benchmark for gap skating progression

Anti Hero Tenure

• 25+ years on Anti Hero team
• One of brand’s most loyal riders
• Featured in multiple video productions
• Part of brand’s core identity

Media Recognition

• Thrasher Magazine coverage throughout career
• Recognition as SF skate scene legend
• Various industry accolades
• Respect from peers and media

Current Status (2020s)

Continued Activity

Gerwer remains active in skateboarding: - Anti Hero team member - Selective skating appearances - Mentorship role in SF scene - Living legend status

Legacy Management

Managing historic status: - Selective about new footage - Respects history and legacy - Continues to represent Anti Hero - Mentor to younger skaters

Future Trajectory

As career continues: - Potential for more video appearances - Ambassador role for Anti Hero - SF scene elder statesman - Skateboarding historian and storyteller

Achievements and Records

Major Accomplishments

Frankie Gerwer’s list of achievements represents some of the most impressive accomplishments in their field. These milestones reflect years of dedication, talent, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Awards and Recognition

The honors and awards bestowed upon Frankie Gerwer reflect the high regard in which they are held by peers, critics, and fans alike. These recognitions span multiple organizations and categories.

Records and Statistics

Frankie Gerwer’s statistical achievements tell a compelling story of sustained excellence and breakthrough performances that have set new standards in their discipline.

Skating Style, Technique, and Approach

Style Overview

Raw Power Aesthetic

Frankie Gerwer’s skating is defined by raw, uncompromising power: - Aggressive approach - Attacks spots with maximum commitment - Minimal refinement - Focus on making tricks, not perfecting style - Authentic execution - What you see is what you get - Fearless attitude - Willing to attempt anything

Regular Stance

Gerwer skates regular stance (left foot forward): - Comfortable with various trick selections - Kickflip as go-to flip trick - Adaptable to different spot requirements - Regular stance dominance on big obstacles

Signature Elements

Gap Skating Mastery

Gerwer’s defining characteristic is gap skating: - Massive gaps - Seeks out and conquers large obstacles - Commitment - Full speed approach to dangerous spots - Landing absorption - Technique for handling big impacts - Spot knowledge - Expertise on legendary gaps like Wallenberg

The Kickflip

His kickflip technique on display at Wallenberg: - Consistency at scale - Kickflip rotation regardless of gap size - Commitment - No hesitation on massive attempts - Precision - Foot placement for clean landings - Speed - Adequate velocity for gap clearance

Raw Approach

Unpolished but effective style: - Function over form - Makes tricks, period - Power over finesse - Brute force when necessary - Authentic character - No attempts to polish image - Core skateboarding - Represents street skating essence

The Wallenberg Technique

Approach and Setup

Technical elements of the historic Wallenberg kickflip: - Speed generation - Enough velocity to clear the gap - Pop timing - Precise moment for kickflip initiation - Rotation control - Managing flip while descending - Landing preparation - Body positioning for impact

Mental Approach

Psychological aspects of gap skating at this level: - Visualization - Mental preparation before attempts - Commitment - No half-measures on massive gaps - Fear management - Controlling natural fear responses - Focus - Blocking out distractions

Physical Preparation

Body positioning and technique: - Board control - Maintaining control during descent - Landing technique - Absorbing massive impact - Balance - Staying centered throughout - Recovery - Ability to roll away clean

Comparison to Contemporaries

vs. Other Anti Hero Riders

Within the Anti Hero team: - Julien Stranger - Team founder, similar raw aesthetic - John Cardiel - Both legendary figures, different styles - Tony Trujillo - Both powerful, Gerwer more gap-focused - Andrew Allen - Different eras, similar authenticity

vs. SF Scene Skaters

Among San Francisco legends: - Tommy Guerrero - Different era, Gerwer more gap-focused - Mike Carroll - Both SF legends, different approaches - Chico Brenes - Different style within same scene - Karl Watson - Both represent SF scene diversity

vs. Gap Specialists

Compared to other gap skaters: - Jamie Thomas - Both fearless, Thomas more rail-focused - Danny Way - Way more vert/ramp, Gerwer pure street - Jeremy Wray - Both gap innovators - Modern gap skaters - Gerwer paved way for current generation

Video Part Analysis

“Kung Fu Grip” (1999)

The video featuring Wallenberg: - Raw footage aesthetic - Historic Wallenberg kickflip documentation - Anti Hero ethos perfectly captured - Minimal production, maximum impact

Later Video Appearances

Evolution across video parts: - Maintained raw approach throughout career - Adapted to physical changes - Consistent quality over decades - Authentic representation in every appearance

Technical Strengths

Gap Clearance

Technical ability on massive obstacles: - Pop height - Adequate for large gaps - Distance judgment - Accurate assessment of requirements - Landing technique - Clean landings on rough terrain - Speed management - Appropriate velocity for obstacles

Flip Trick Consistency

Reliable flip tricks at scale: - Kickflip mastery - Go-to flip trick - Heelflip capability - Alternative when needed - Rotation control - Consistent flip speed - Catch reliability - Making tricks under pressure

Terrain Adaptability

Ability to skate various spots: - Gaps - Primary strength - Stairs - Comfortable on stair sets - Rough terrain - SF street spots expertise - Various surfaces - Adaptable to conditions

Style Philosophy

Authenticity Over Polish

Gerwer’s approach to style: - Real over perfect - Makes tricks, doesn’t obsess over style - Core values - Represents authentic street skating - Anti-establishment - Rejection of mainstream aesthetics - Skater’s skater - Respected by peers for authenticity

Function Over Form

Practical approach to tricks: - Make it - Primary goal - Roll away - Secondary consideration - Style develops naturally - Not forced - Results matter - End product over process

Evolution of Style

Early Career (1990s)

Developing the raw approach: - Foundational skills development - Discovery of gap skating affinity - Anti Hero aesthetic formation - Wallenberg achievement

Peak Years (2000s)

Refining the approach: - Consistent output of progressive skating - Established reputation - Continued gap conquest - Video part contributions

Later Career (2010s-present)

Mature adaptation: - Adjusted to physical changes - Selective but impactful footage - Mentorship of younger skaters - Legacy preservation

Influence on Skating Style

Gap Skating Standards

Gerwer influenced how gaps are approached: - Commitment template - Full speed, no hesitation - Possibility expansion - Showed what was possible - Fear management - Example of controlling fear - Technical foundation - Technique for massive gaps

Anti Hero Aesthetic

Part of defining Anti Hero style: - Raw aesthetic - Unpolished representation - Authentic approach - Real skating, real spots - Core values - Anti-commercial ethos - Individual expression - Unique approaches celebrated

SF Scene Influence

Representing San Francisco style: - Hills and gaps - SF terrain utilization - Street authenticity - Urban environment skating - Scene representation - Embodying SF culture - Generational bridge - Connecting eras

Overall Assessment

Frankie Gerwer represents the essence of authentic street skateboarding: - Raw power - Uncompromising approach to spots - Gap mastery - Technical and mental expertise on massive obstacles - Authentic style - No pretense or polish, just skating - Fearless commitment - Willing to attempt anything

His style may not be the most refined or technically perfect, but it represents something more valuable in skateboarding culture: pure, unfiltered commitment to progressing on a skateboard. The Wallenberg kickflip demonstrates what his style can achieve—historic progression through sheer determination and courage.

Gerwer’s influence on skateboarding style is evident in the generations of gap skaters who followed, each inspired by his demonstration that the “impossible” is merely a challenge waiting to be overcome. His raw, powerful approach remains a template for skaters who prioritize progression and authenticity over polished presentation.

Personal Life, Relationships, and Interests

Privacy and Public Persona

Private Individual

Frankie Gerwer maintains a relatively private personal life: - Limited social media presence compared to modern skaters - Focus on skateboarding rather than personal publicity - Separation between public skate persona and private life - Authenticity in public without oversharing personal details

Public Image

His public persona is defined by: - The skater’s skater - Respected by peers for authenticity - Anti Hero representative - Embodiment of brand ethos - SF scene elder - Knowledgeable about skateboarding culture - Humble approach - No self-promotion or hype

San Francisco Connection

SF Resident

Gerwer has been based in San Francisco for decades: - Longtime resident of SF skateboarding community - Witness to multiple eras of SF scene - Knowledgeable about city’s legendary spots - Part of city’s skateboarding heritage

SF Scene Involvement

Active participant in local scene: - Regular at legendary SF spots - Connection to local skaters across generations - Support for SF skateboarding culture - Mentorship of younger SF skaters

Friendships and Industry Relationships

Anti Hero Family

Deep connections within Anti Hero team: - Julien Stranger - Team founder, long-term relationship - John Cardiel - Fellow legend, mutual respect - Tony Trujillo - Team camaraderie - Andrew Allen - Cross-generational connection - Extended Anti Hero team relationships

SF Skate Community

Strong ties to local skaters: - Tommy Guerrero - SF legend connection - Mike Carroll - SF scene relationship - Chico Brenes - Scene peer - Karl Watson - SF community member - Broader SF skate network

Industry Respect

Relationships across skateboarding: - Respect from Thrasher Magazine staff - Connection to video producers and photographers - Industry-wide recognition - Cross-brand respect

Personal Interests

Beyond Skateboarding

While skateboarding is central, other interests include: - Music and cultural interests aligned with Anti Hero ethos - Urban exploration and spot discovery - Friendship and community - Minimal public disclosure of hobbies

Lifestyle

Gerwer’s lifestyle reflects his values: - Simple, unpretentious living - Focus on skating over material accumulation - Community-oriented - Authentic to skateboarding culture

Anti Hero Loyalty

Brand Commitment

Unusual loyalty in skateboarding: - 25+ years with single brand - Survived multiple industry changes - Maintained relationship through ups and downs - Rare example of long-term loyalty

Values Alignment

Shared values with Anti Hero: - Anti-commercial ethos - Authentic skateboarding representation - Core culture over mainstream appeal - Individual expression

Challenges and Resilience

Physical Challenges

Managing career longevity: - Impact from massive gaps - Injury management over decades - Physical adaptation as career progressed - Continued skating despite physical toll

Industry Changes

Navigating skateboarding evolution: - Transition from VHS to digital - Social media era adaptation - Industry consolidation - Maintaining values through changes

Philosophy and Values

Skateboarding Philosophy

Core beliefs about skating: - Authenticity above all - Progression over perfection - Community and culture matter - Anti-establishment ethos

Life Philosophy

Values reflected in approach: - Loyalty to people and brands - Simplicity and authenticity - Rejection of superficiality - Substance over style

Legacy and Future

Current Focus

As career continues: - Selective skating appearances - Mentorship of younger generation - Preservation of skateboarding culture - Authentic representation of values

Future Considerations

Potential future directions: - Continued Anti Hero representation - Increased mentorship role - Skateboarding history preservation - Community leadership

Summary

Frankie Gerwer’s personal life reflects the values that define his skateboarding career: - Privacy - Selective about personal details - Authenticity - Real person, not manufactured image - Loyalty - Long-term relationships with people and brands - Community - Strong ties to SF and Anti Hero family - Simplicity - Unpretentious lifestyle - Values - Principles over popularity

He represents the skater who lets his skating speak for itself, maintaining privacy while being fully authentic in what he does share. His loyalty to Anti Hero and the SF scene demonstrates values that have become rare in modern skateboarding, making him not just a legendary skater but a respected figure for his character as much as his accomplishments.

The combination of his historic Wallenberg achievement and his decades of authentic representation of skateboarding’s core values makes Gerwer a unique figure in skateboarding culture—someone who achieved greatness while staying true to the essence of what skateboarding represents.

Legacy and Impact on Skateboarding

The Wallenberg Kickflip Legacy

Historic Achievement

Frankie Gerwer’s legacy is fundamentally defined by his 1999 Wallenberg kickflip: - First to kickflip the Wallenberg Set - One of skateboarding’s most iconic tricks - Demolished impossibility - Showed that barriers were mental - Inspiration for generations - Motivated countless skaters to attempt the gap - Permanent place in history - Will be remembered as long as skateboarding exists

Wallenberg as Pilgrimage Site

The impact on skateboarding geography: - Wallenberg became mandatory pilgrimage for serious skaters - Multiple skaters have since kickflipped the gap (following Gerwer’s path) - Other tricks down Wallenberg attempted and made - Gerwer’s kickflip remains the reference point

Gap Skating Progression

Gerwer’s influence on what gaps are considered skatable: - Expanded possibilities for gap skating - Raised bar for what skaters would attempt - Mental barrier breakthrough - Technical template for massive gaps

Anti Hero Skateboards Legacy

Brand Icon Status

Gerwer’s 25+ years with Anti Hero created a unique legacy: - Longest-tenured rider in Anti Hero history - Brand embodiment - Perfectly represents Anti Hero ethos - Generational bridge - Connects eras of team riders - Loyalty example - Rare long-term relationship in skateboarding

Anti Hero Aesthetic Contribution

Part of defining what Anti Hero represents: - Raw aesthetic - Unpolished, authentic representation - Core values - Anti-commercial, anti-establishment - Individual expression - Unique approaches celebrated - Street authenticity - Real spots, real skating

Video Legacy

Contributions to Anti Hero’s legendary video catalog: - “Kung Fu Grip” (1999) - Wallenberg kickflip - Various team videos across decades - Consistent quality and authenticity - Part of brand’s visual history

San Francisco Scene Legacy

SF Skateboarding Legend

Status within one of skateboarding’s most important scenes: - Living legend of SF skateboarding - Scene historian - Witness to multiple eras - Spot expert - Knowledge of legendary terrain - Cultural keeper - Preserves SF skateboarding values

SF Spot History

Gerwer’s role in SF’s legendary spots: - Wallenberg kickflip as SF skateboarding milestone - Various SF gaps and terrain conquered - Documentation of SF spots in videos - Connection between generations at SF spots

Mentorship Legacy

Influence on younger SF skaters: - Example of longevity and commitment - Knowledge transfer about spots and culture - Bridge between SF skateboarding eras - Preservation of SF skating values

Cultural Impact

The “Skater’s Skater”

Gerwer represents the highest form of peer respect: - Respected by fellow professionals above all else - Authenticity admired across skateboarding culture - No hype necessary - Skating speaks for itself - Example of integrity - Values over fame

Anti-Commercial Stance

Representation of skateboarding’s counter-cultural values: - Rejection of mainstream - Stayed true to core - Brand loyalty - Values over maximum profit - Authentic representation - Never compromised approach - Cultural preservation - Maintained skateboarding essence

Longevity Example

Career spanning three decades demonstrates: - Sustainability - Career without selling out - Adaptation - Evolved while maintaining core - Relevance - Stayed respected across eras - Possibility - Model for career longevity

Influence on Subsequent Generations

Gap Skating Influence

Direct impact on how gaps are approached: - Commitment template - Full speed, no hesitation - Technical foundation - Technique for massive gaps - Mental approach - Fear management example - Possibility expansion - Showed what was possible

Style Influence

Influence on skateboarding aesthetics: - Raw over polished - Authenticity valued - Function over form - Making tricks matters most - Power and commitment - Aggressive approach - Individual expression - Unique styles celebrated

Career Approach

Model for career sustainability: - Loyalty - Long-term brand relationships - Authenticity - Staying true to self - Quality over quantity - Selective but impactful - Core values - Maintaining principles

Comparison to Legends

vs. Other Gap Pioneers

Among skateboarding’s gap legends: - Jamie Thomas - Both fearless, Thomas more rail-focused - Danny Way - Way more mega-ramp, Gerwer pure street - Jeremy Wray - Both gap innovators, different eras - Modern gap skaters - All follow path Gerwer helped create

vs. Anti Hero Legends

Among Anti Hero’s most iconic riders: - Julien Stranger - Both foundational to brand identity - John Cardiel - Both legends, different contributions - Tony Trujillo - Different eras, similar ethos - Andrew Allen - Generational connection

vs. SF Legends

Among San Francisco’s greatest: - Tommy Guerrero - Different eras, both SF icons - Mike Carroll - Both represent SF excellence - Chico Brenes - Different styles, same scene - Mark Gonzales - Gonz SF roots, Gerwer SF representation

Historical Significance

1990s Street Skating

Part of defining era: - Gap skating pioneer - Pushed boundaries of street skating - Video era participant - Documented in 411VM and productions - Pre-internet legend - Reputation built through word-of-mouth - Authentic street skating - Represented real street culture

Anti Hero Founding Generation

Part of brand’s core identity: - Second generation Anti Hero rider - Maintained ethos through brand evolution - Brand loyalty example - Cultural preservation through consistency

SF Scene History

Witness to and participant in SF skateboarding history: - Multiple eras of SF skating - Legendary spots documentation - Cultural evolution observation - Values preservation across generations

Future Legacy

Continued Influence

Gerwer’s influence will continue through: - Young skaters studying Wallenberg kickflip - Anti Hero brand identity maintenance - SF scene mentorship - Authentic skateboarding representation

Potential Future Roles

As career continues to evolve: - Brand ambassador for Anti Hero - Scene historian documenting SF skating - Mentor for younger generation - Cultural preservationist maintaining values

Enduring Principles

Principles that will define lasting legacy: - Authenticity - Real skating, real representation - Loyalty - Long-term commitment to people and brands - Courage - Willingness to attempt the impossible - Integrity - Values over commercial success

Final Assessment

Frankie Gerwer’s legacy rests on three pillars:

1. The Wallenberg Kickflip - One of skateboarding’s most iconic achievements that expanded possibilities and inspired generations

2. Anti Hero Loyalty - 25+ years representing one brand with integrity, embodying skateboarding’s core values

3. Authentic Representation - Three decades of representing what skateboarding culture is supposed to be: raw, authentic, committed, and true

While he may not have the contest trophies or mainstream recognition of some skaters, Gerwer’s impact on skateboarding culture runs deeper. He represents the essence of what makes skateboarding special—the courage to attempt the impossible, the loyalty to stay true to one’s values, and the authenticity to represent the culture without compromise.

In a world of increasing commercialization and social media posturing, Frankie Gerwer stands as a reminder of skateboarding’s counter-cultural roots and the values that have sustained the culture for decades. His legacy is secure not just because of what he did on a skateboard, but because of how he did it—with integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity.

The Wallenberg kickflip will be remembered as long as skateboarding exists, but Frankie Gerwer’s greatest legacy may be the example he set for how to navigate a career in skateboarding while maintaining the values that make the culture worth preserving.