One thing you can’t fail to notice when watching Chris Joslin on a skateboard is just how natural it all looks.
There’s a certain composure and maturity in the 21 years old’s skating that goes beyond his years.
You just get that feeling it was all meant to be.
And it’s no real surprise when you consider that Joslin’s brother introduced him to skating at just 3 years old. It fast became a part of his DNA and he hasn’t looked back since…
Joslin crashed onto the scene as an amateur and has amassed an impressive following of fans and admirers. Nominated for Skater of the Year and winner of Am of the Year in 2014, the hype was all too real and at the ripe old age of 19 he turned pro.
Made in the streets and skate parks of Long Beach, California, Joslin now travels the world, trying his luck in contests, shooting parts. Living the dream.
He’s worked with some super high profile directors and now spreads the gospel of Joslin with insane tricks and a passion that burns deeper than most.
We couldn’t blame you for thinking that being catapulted from relative obscurity to the forefront of the skateboarding world would shake any young up-and-comer.
But Joslin has taken it all in his stride.
Despite being one of the biggest names out there today, he’s remained humble and grounded – even when bagging some serious air time!
We grabbed the opportunity to speak to Chris ahead of the launch of the etnies Marana skate shoes…
Who’s been your biggest inspiration?
CJ: My biggest inspiration – in and out of skating – is all my friends I skate with almost everyday.
It’s been a crazy few years. What’s been the best thing about turning pro?
CJ: The best thing about turning pro is seeing all the new graphics coming out and just being so stoked to set up a board knowing you worked hard for it.
What’s been your funniest skate story?
CJ: I’ve got a pretty funny skate story from was when I was in Barcelona.
We were heading to the spot and my friend Torey fell asleep on the train. The group all got off at the stop and we didn’t notice he stayed on.
He was woken up at the end of the ride and someone told him ‘you gotta go’ because he stayed on till the last stop. He called us asking ‘yo where you guys at?’
Haha, he had to take a taxi all the way back.
You say in Real Street 2016 ‘I just love to fly’ – but flying doesn’t always go to plan. What’s been your biggest skating injury?
CJ: Luckily, my biggest skate injury was just trauma to the ligament in my knee from all the impact.
*Knock on wood*
Where is your favourite place to skate outside of the US and why?
CJ: Barcelona is definitely my favourite place.
Such good vibes and amazing skate spots everywhere you turn!
What do you see as your biggest achievement in skating (besides turning pro)?
CJ: My biggest achievement would have to be winning X Games Real Street last year.
I was super hyped on that.
What’s next for Chris Joslin?
CJ: What’s next? Contests, etnies full length Video Album, another X Games Real Street part for 2017.
Other than that I’m just winging it!
Joslin on the new and improved Marana
No doubt Joslin has a promising future ahead of him and we’re all itching to see more.
2017 is a big year for many reasons, none more than the collaborative project between sponsor Etnies and tire maestros Michelin that he’s been involved in from day one…
The Michelin Marana is the ultimate in all-skate durability.
It brings together the classic etnies upper, with a unique tread design from Michelin and a rubber compound that lasts 3 times longer than the original Marana outsole.
Just let that sink in for a moment.
etnies have upped their game with this one – and Joslin agrees…
“I back the Marana’s super hard! They’re super padded for impact protection and comfy with good board feel. Just an all around great shoe!”
You can follow Chris on Instagram at @chrisjoslin_
Read our full review of the etnies Michelin Marana shoe here.