Kevin Bradley: Overview

Introduction

Kevin Bradley, known professionally as KB or by his Instagram handle @_kbunleashed, is an American professional skateboarder who emerged from Los Angeles’ vibrant street skateboarding scene to become one of the most influential skaters of the 2010s. Born around 1994-1995 in Los Angeles, California, Bradley turned professional in 2015 and quickly established himself as a style icon whose unique approach to skating transcended traditional technical benchmarks.

Rise to Prominence

Bradley emerged from Los Angeles’ skate scene in the early 2010s, gaining attention through his distinctive style and creative approach to street skating. Unlike many of his contemporaries who focused solely on technical difficulty, Bradley developed a smooth, flowing style that emphasized speed, creativity, and personal expression.

His breakthrough came through his association with the influential skate collective and brand Fucking Awesome (FA), founded by professional skater Jason Dill. This connection proved pivotal in launching Bradley’s career and establishing his reputation within the industry.

Professional Career Launch

Kevin Bradley turned professional in May 2015, marking the beginning of his official career as a sponsored skateboarder. His pro debut was significant not just for the career milestone but for the cultural moment it represented—Bradley embodied a new generation of skaters who blended high-level skating with fashion consciousness and lifestyle branding.

Sponsorship Portfolio

Bradley has maintained an impressive roster of sponsors throughout his career: - Fucking Awesome (FA): Primary board sponsor and creative home - Supreme: The legendary New York streetwear brand - Spitfire Wheels: Premium wheel manufacturer - Thunder Trucks: High-performance skateboard trucks - Nike SB: Nike’s skateboarding division - Hardies Hardware: Skate hardware brand co-founded by Tyshawn Jones - Crap Eyewear: Sunglasses and eyewear brand

Cultural Impact

Bradley represents a significant shift in skateboarding culture during the 2010s. His influence extends beyond his skating accomplishments to encompass fashion, style, and the lifestyle aspects of professional skating.

Summary

Kevin Bradley’s career represents the evolution of professional skateboarding in the 21st century. His influence on style, fashion, and the lifestyle aspects of skating ensures his place in the sport’s contemporary history.

Kevin Bradley: Early Life and Background

Birth and Childhood

Kevin Bradley was born in the mid-1990s (approximately 1994-1995) in Los Angeles, California. Growing up in one of America’s most vibrant skateboarding cities, Bradley was immersed in skate culture from an early age.

Introduction to Skateboarding

Bradley began skateboarding at a young age in Los Angeles: - Local Scene: Access to iconic LA skate spots - Early Development: Natural talent for board control - Style Focus: Emphasizing flow over pure technicality - Fashion Interest: Early interest in clothing and style

Connection to Fucking Awesome

A pivotal relationship in Bradley’s early development was his connection to Jason Dill and the Fucking Awesome brand. FA represented a sophisticated, fashion-forward approach to skateboarding that aligned perfectly with Bradley’s aesthetic sensibilities.

The Road to Professionalism

Bradley’s path to turning professional involved years of consistent output, filming clips that demonstrated his unique approach, and catching the eye of sponsors and team managers.

Summary

Kevin Bradley’s early life in Los Angeles positioned him perfectly for success in modern skateboarding. His Los Angeles roots remain central to his identity as both a skater and a cultural figure.

Kevin Bradley: Career Journey

Amateur Years and Rising Recognition

Kevin Bradley’s path to professional skateboarding followed the traditional route of demonstrating consistent skill and style through video footage and local recognition. His connection to the Fucking Awesome collective provided crucial mentorship and exposure.

Turning Professional (2015)

Kevin Bradley turned professional in May 2015 with his first pro model board on Fucking Awesome, marking his entry into the ranks of sponsored skateboarders.

Supreme Partnership

Bradley’s association with Supreme represents a significant aspect of his career, bridging skateboarding and high fashion.

Nike SB Sponsorship

Joining the Nike SB team places Bradley among skateboarding’s elite professionals, providing international exposure and professional production of video content.

Relocation to Hawaii

In a notable career development, Bradley relocated to Hawaii, maintaining his professional status while embracing a different lifestyle.

Summary

Kevin Bradley’s career from turning pro in 2015 to his current status demonstrates a successful navigation of modern professional skateboarding through strategic partnerships with Fucking Awesome, Supreme, and Nike SB.

Achievements and Records

Major Accomplishments

Kevin Bradley’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 Kevin Bradley 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

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

Kevin Bradley: Technique and Style

Overview: Distinctive Skating Approach

Kevin Bradley’s skating is defined by a distinctive approach that prioritizes flow, style, and creativity over pure technical difficulty.

Core Technical Elements

Goofy Stance

Bradley skates goofy-footed, meaning his right foot is forward on the board.

Speed and Power

A defining characteristic of Bradley’s skating is his emphasis on speed and powerful execution.

Signature Style Elements

Smooth Execution

Bradley’s tricks are characterized by clean, controlled landings.

Creative Spot Usage

Bradley is known for approaching spots differently than other skaters.

Summary

Kevin Bradley’s technique and style represent a successful fusion of technical ability and aesthetic vision, establishing him as a style icon within skateboarding.

Kevin Bradley: Personal Life

Current Residence

Kevin Bradley currently resides in Hawaii, having relocated from Los Angeles.

Social Media Presence

Bradley maintains an active presence on Instagram under the handle @_kbunleashed.

Relationship with Na-Kel Smith

A significant friendship in Bradley’s life is his relationship with fellow professional skateboarder Na-Kel Smith.

Interests Beyond Skateboarding

Fashion and Clothing

Bradley’s interest in fashion extends beyond professional obligations.

Summary

Kevin Bradley’s personal life reflects the values of authenticity, quality, and independence that define his professional approach.

Kevin Bradley: Legacy and Impact

Cultural Influence

Kevin Bradley’s impact on skateboarding extends beyond his individual accomplishments to encompass broader cultural shifts within the sport.

Professional Impact

Bradley’s career demonstrates successful navigation of modern professional skateboarding.

Influence on Skateboarding Culture

Bradley’s influence on younger skaters includes emphasis on style, fashion consciousness, and authentic approach.

Summary

Kevin Bradley’s legacy extends far beyond his individual skateboarding accomplishments to encompass significant cultural influence within skateboarding and its relationship to fashion and lifestyle culture.