Tacky Joy Factory is a skateboard brand founded in 2024 by professional skateboarder Leo Baker after the closure of their previous company, Glue Skateboards. The brand was created out of Baker’s intention to build a more personal, supportive, and creatively driven skate company following difficulties experienced with Glue. Leo directs the creative aspects of Tacky, bringing in their background in graphic design and music, while longtime friend Alex White manages logistics.
The team was assembled through personal connections rather than skate fame alone. For instance, Baker met Rocco Marsh randomly while skating in New York, which led to Marsh joining the team. Rocco’s brother, Roman, became the filmer after receiving a camera from Leo to help document skating. Other team members include Nora Baker, recruited after impressing Leo through a mutual connection, and Tristan Baesen, who met Leo at a skate camp in Berkeley.
Tacky Joy Factory emphasizes a handmade, human-focused approach to skateboarding culture. The brand uses original artwork for graphics and releases themed video projects. It seeks to create a close-knit team environment where skaters feel valued and supported, aiming to provide mentorship and foster creativity in a relaxed atmosphere.