Although legitimate influencers are found few and far between, Eric Koston has steadily earned that title throughout his prolific skateboarding career, which has spanned well over a decade now. Aside from capturing titles and winning awards in almost every major competition, the celebrated skater has played a key role in the progress of skateboard footwear and apparel with brands such as eS, Lakai, Chocolate, Fourstar Clothing and Girl Skateboards. Not only has Koston’s influence transcended skateboarding and encompassed all of action sports, but it’s paved the way for a younger generation of skaters, coming up in a culture that has immersed itself into the world of streetwear, art, and photography. We recently had the opportunity to catch up with the Los Angeles native, learning a bit more about his return to Oakley, new product line, and exhibition in Japan alongside iconic skate photographer Atiba Jefferson and popular Japanese photographer Keiichi Nitta.