About Upthere Skateboards
More Than a Brand - A Movement
Upthere LLC was founded in 2012 by two friends who shared a deep passion for action sports, art, and community empowerment. One was navigating the fast-paced streets of New York City, while the other remained deeply connected to the vibrant landscapes of the Dominican Republic. Together, they set out to build something bigger than just a skate brand—they wanted to create a platform that elevates riders, artists, and creatives worldwide.
Skateboarding Meets Culture & Art
At Upthere, we believe skateboarding is more than just a sport—it’s a form of self-expression, a creative outlet, and a way to break barriers. Our mission is to provide high-quality apparel, skate gear, and creative opportunities that reflect the resilience, individuality, and diverse backgrounds of our community.
Our Community
Upthere is more than just a brand—we are a movement dedicated to supporting skateboarding by sponsoring and spotlighting emerging riders, elevating artists through collaborations that bring their work into skate culture, and building a strong community with events, workshops, and meetups that inspire growth. We are committed to creating high-quality gear, offering functional and stylish apparel and boards that truly represent the culture. Whether you're an experienced skater, an artist, or someone who loves the intersection of skateboarding and creativity, Upthere is for you. Join us as we continue to ride, create, and inspire.
Meet the founders
Mario Cairo: Visionary Artist
Esteban Gómez: Entrepreneurial Spirit
Esteban Gómez: Entrepreneurial Spirit
Mario’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in the landscapes and energy of the Dominican Republic. Now based in New York since 2014, his work blends contemporary costumbrismo with the raw, untamed freedom of skateboarding. A self-taught multidisciplinary artist, Mario’s creations draw from nature, wildlife, and everyday life, turning them into visual poetry. His art is an invitation to explore the balance between urban culture and natural beauty—between motion and stillness. Through Upthere, Mario translates this artistic vision into designs that capture the essence of skateboarding and cultural heritage.
Esteban Gómez: Entrepreneurial Spirit
Esteban Gómez: Entrepreneurial Spirit
Esteban Gómez: Entrepreneurial Spirit
Esteban Gómez is a Dominican entrepreneur whose journey blends resilience, passion, and innovation. Moving to NYC at 18, he built a career in fashion, working at Saks Fifth Avenue before transitioning into business. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found Upthere Skateboards, a brand representing Dominican skateboarding globally. He later founded Digital Leaf Media Consulting, helping Latino businesses navigate the digital era. With ventures in real estate, marketing, and action sports, Esteban continues to push boundaries, empowering communities through strategic business growth.