Photo: Lakai Philippines

Photo: Lakai Philippines

Photo: Lakai Philippines

Lakai is officially in the Philippines.

After decades of influence, the iconic skate brand that shaped generations of style and video parts is finally touching down on local ground.

Founded in 1999 by legendary skaters Mike Carroll and Rick Howard, Lakai has long been celebrated for its clean silhouettes, timeless video parts (Fully Flared, The Flare), and a deep commitment to authentic skate culture. 

Now entering a new chapter, Lakai continues to evolve under new ownership by Marc Roca (October 2024); Adding to that, Luis Mora joined as one of the brand’s owners earlier this year 2025. The change marks a renewed energy for the brand, one that stays true to its roots while pushing toward a new generation of skateboarders.

After such a transition, Lakai also introduced their latest team riders, including Chris Joslin, Roman Hager, Bastien Salabanzi, Gabryel Aguilar, Evon Martinez, Coco Yoshizawa, and Jumpei Tsutsumi, proving that the brand’s creative fire and global reach remain stronger than ever.

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Reaching local skate grassroots. Fashion, forward.

Brought in by Inversal Distribution, Lakai enters a scene built on passion and perseverance, bridging LA heritage with Manila’s raw skate energy and signaling a new era where global culture meets local creativity. For Raymond Ramos, General Manager of Inversal Distribution, it’s about expanding that authenticity beyond the core scene.

“Not just with the skate community, but also as a go-to shoe that Filipinos can eventually love,” he says. “We want to allow the market to have access to shoes that are stylish but also functional, practical, and easy to wear.  Whether you’re skating, commuting, or just want a nice-looking pair of shoes.”

Banchi Jimena, skate filmer for Lakai Philippines, shares that Lakai’s entry into the Philippines will not only amplify the skateboarding culture in our land but also present it on a larger scale.

“Our primary focus is on reaching the grassroots community, where passion and culture thrive at the local level and shining a light on all the underrated skaters across the Philippines who truly represent the spirit of skateboarding.”

The team’s long-term vision includes collaboration and community-driven projects that celebrate the local skate scene.

"We’re also dropping some limited Philippine-inspired shirts that are designed and produced here in the Philippines...As well as, our focus is also to help uplift the skate community here in the Philippines, and we’re looking for ways to do that.” Raymond adds. 

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Bringing the Same Soul to a New Home.

The arrival of Lakai marks more than a brand launch; it’s a connection between LA’s legacy and Manila’s undeniable energy, built on the same style, function, and soul that have fueled the brand for over two decades.

Lakai Lands. Same soul. New home.

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Lakai’s products are now available at lakai.ph, on Shopee (@lakaiph) and TikTok (@lakaiphofficial), as well as select stores including Urban Athletics (SM City Fairview, S Maison, One Ayala) and Grind (Ayala Malls Legazpi, SM City Seaside Cebu, One Ayala).

Follow Lakai Philippines’ Instagram (@lakaiphofficial) to stay tuned for local drops, collaborations, and upcoming community projects that keep the spirit of skateboarding alive, right here at home.