Skateboarding in harsh weather, especially during winter, can be challenging. When rain or snow keeps you off the streets, it’s time to explore alternatives to maintain your skills and passion. This guide provides tips to keep skateboarding through the winter, fall, and rainy days. Remember to grab an old board with worn trucks and bearings for these alternative sessions!
Where to Skate When It’s Cold or Raining
Skateboarders having fun in the winter snow
While indoor skateparks are ideal, other less obvious options exist. Focusing on core strength and balance can also keep you in shape. When skateboarding in bad weather, wear layers to stay warm and always use an old skateboard; snow, rain, and ice can severely damage your board.
Skate in Your Garage or Basement
Many skaters start in their garages to master the basics. If you’re limited by the weather, clear out your garage and perhaps build a small quarter pipe. Practice your axle stalls, rock to fakies, or any trick you’re comfortable with. Even in tight spaces, you can set up obstacles. Just be careful not to damage anything.
Practice on a Carpet
A carpet can help practice your technique. Many skaters use carpet pieces to work on ollies. Though it might not be the best idea if you live in an apartment, it’s better than doing nothing. To reduce noise, place a large piece of wood under the carpet for a slightly bouncy feel.
Indoor Skateparks
Indoor skateparks are fantastic, but not always nearby. If you are fortunate enough to have one close, consider splitting the costs with friends. If you’re new, remember skatepark etiquette and be friendly, people will gladly help you. If a local skatepark doesn’t exist, contact the Tony Hawk Foundation for guidance on how to start building one in your community.
Abandoned Buildings
Abandoned buildings offer a unique and often legally ambiguous place for skateboarding. Be careful while exploring urban landscapes, watch out for broken glass or debris. If you spot any needles, leave the area immediately. Bring a camera to capture unique skating shots.
Parking Garages
Parking garages can be perfect for skateboarding, although they can be slippery, and oil stains are common. Be aware of security, as skateboarders may not always be welcome and you might get kicked out. Be cautious when turning to avoid hitting a car.
Clear Ramps Using a Floor Squeegee
skateboard deck on a wet miniramp
If your local mini ramp is wet, use a floor squeegee. With a few friends, clear the surface by going back and forth on the mini ramp, quarter pipe, or funbox. This can make the surface dry more quickly, and you may be able to skate after 15 to 30 minutes. If it starts raining again, use a dedicated rain deck and a towel to remove water spots.
Last Option: Your Living Room
Your living room is a last resort option. Using skate trainers will keep the board from moving around and possibly damaging furniture or floors. A carpet or yoga mat can also protect wooden floors.
Can You Skate During the Winter?
Skateboarding during winter is feasible, but it depends on location. Those living in sunny, warm climates are lucky. For those in areas with harsh winters and temperatures below 20°F, it’s often better to skate indoors.
It takes longer for your muscles to warm up in the cold, and falls hurt more. Slippery surfaces, such as stairs, increase injury risks. Always avoid sticking your tongue to metal objects when it’s cold! The concrete can also be slippery with less traction during winter.
Other Activities When the Weather is Bad
skateboard in the snow
If indoor skating isn’t an option, there are other skateboard-related things to do. Get creative, use a balance board, watch some skate videos, or play video games. Snowskating and snowboarding are also great options if you live near the mountains.
Snowskating
Snowskates are like skateboards, but are designed for the snow. They feature a plastic bottom with grooves and rubber patches on top for grip. Although it’s a very different experience from skateboarding on concrete, it’s a lot of fun.
Watch Skateboard Videos
While watching skateboard videos may tempt you to go out and skate, it’s a good way to keep up with the culture and learn new tricks. Check out a list of the best skateboard videos ever made for both classic and modern skateboarding inspiration.
Get an Old Deck and Have Some Fun in the Snow
skateboarder in a mini ramp and snow
Grabbing an old deck and sliding down slopes in the snow can be fun and less painful than traditional skateboarding. Find a snowy hill, and enjoy!
Practice on a Balance Board
A balance board can help practice manuals. Use an old skateboard deck without trucks, and use a water bottle or baseball bat. Although balance boards can be purchased, it’s not necessary.
Tony Hawk Pro Skater Video Games
The Tony Hawk Pro Skater video game series has introduced many people to skateboarding. Playing video games is a fun and interactive way to connect to skateboarding while you can’t ride outside. The recent remakes are a great way to pass the time when you can’t skate outdoors.
Consider Snowboarding
Snowboarding is a great alternative sport for skateboarders. If you’re decent at skateboarding, learning to snowboard will be much faster. You’ll be able to learn tricks quicker and build your confidence for the next time you step on your board.
Pros and Cons of Skateboarding in the Cold
Skateboarding in the cold has few pros, but it builds character. It requires you to adapt to different conditions, which helps with muscle memory and anticipation.
Icy surfaces require focus, as your board can slip away without warning. This can be a fun challenge for experienced skaters. The biggest cons are that it takes longer to warm up, and slams hurt much more. Always scan the area before attempting anything.
Is Rain, Heat, or Cold Bad for Your Skateboard?
Extreme weather can damage a skateboard. Wood, being an organic material, is prone to damage from both heat and cold. Moisture is particularly damaging, as it can dissolve glue and make your grip tape peel off. Waterlogged boards also lose pop and can delaminate.
It’s not just the board; moisture is also bad for your trucks and bearings. Wet bearings need to be taken apart, cleaned, and lubricated with a speed cream. Salt on the roads is very damaging to bearings.
What is the Best Temperature for Skateboarding?
The best temperature for skateboarding is between 65°F (18°C) and 70°F (21°C), with no wind or rain. Although it is a matter of preference, some people prefer to skate in warmer temperatures because it warms up the muscles. When it’s cold, dress properly, and you’ll warm up as you skate. When the sun shines, try to avoid shaded areas.
Conclusion
Winter is challenging for skateboarders. Make the most of it by finding alternatives for your skate sessions. It’s a good time to keep in shape, go for a run, or work out, so you’re ready for spring.
Visit an indoor skatepark when you can. It’s great for muscle memory and it still allows for some exercise. Use this guide to keep your skating passion alive when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
