I've had a couple of friends praising Darkstar wheels.
DC is doing something for me again these years. I really gave up on them at one point. I know I'm not alone.
One of the best shoes I've ever had was Etnies' Jamerson 2. It was cheap, it was simple, cool looking, very durable, logo was small, nice color ways, good to skate right out of the box, never got soggy.
I don't see born loosers acquiring sudden greatnes for re-establishing their brand. Some brands could re-gain quality, but I don't see SLAP approval beating numbers at business meatings.