The early 2000s were a unique time for skateboarding. If you were between 10 and 15, you were likely navigating the world with heartagrams on your griptape and trying out new tricks at the local skatepark. Skateboarding’s popularity was skyrocketing, thanks to Tony Hawk’s 900 and his widely acclaimed video games. Whether you were a seasoned skater or just embracing the style, the early 2000s were a memorable era. While older generations might have viewed this mainstream surge with disdain, it solidified a new wave of skateboarding enthusiasts. This is a look back at the defining, and sometimes embarrassing, trends and moments of that period.
The Wild West of File Sharing: Downloading Skate Videos and More
Before YouTube dominated the video landscape, Kazaa and Limewire were the go-to platforms for downloading everything, including skate videos. You might have spent hours downloading Zero_Misled_Youth_2002.Mpeg alongside other content, only to have your computer crawl to a halt. If your family hadn’t upgraded to broadband, a phone call could interrupt that crucial download of a Chad Fernandez part from the Globe video. Despite the hassles, Kazaa was a treasure trove, giving the feeling of having the whole internet at your fingertips. Pop-ups and computer glitches became a common occurrence, but it was all part of the experience.
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Rollerbladers: The Eternal Rivalry
Ah, rollerbladers, or as they were often called, “fruitbooters” or “gay bladers.” No matter how you phrased it, the animosity was palpable. They were often seen as the antithesis to skateboarding, with their visors, swishy pants, and “cess slides.” No matter how impressive their tricks or gaps were, they would never gain the respect of skateboarders. Though rarely seen today, they remain a reminder of a unique rivalry from the early 2000s.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater: The Digital Skateboarding Sanctuary
Despite any criticisms, the Tony Hawk Pro Skater series holds a special place in the hearts of many skaters. When weather or circumstances kept you from the skatepark, the game was there as an alternative. You could spend hours mastering tricks and navigating virtual skateparks, making your thumbs strong and knowing every word to “When Worlds Collide.” The game also served as a common ground for friendships, allowing you to zone out while listening to your friends’ gossip.
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The Reign of Eric Koston
Before social media, Eric Koston was an untouchable skateboarding icon. His video parts in Menikmati, Chomp on This, and Yeah Right! became the holy grail of skate videos. He was also a beloved character in the THPS games, wore iconic shoes, and won the Tampa Pro in 2002. His influence on skateboarding was undeniable, even if his later actions hinted at a different trajectory.
Secretly Loving “Sk8er Boi” and “Heaven is a Halfpipe”
Despite what you told your friends, you probably knew all the words to Avril Lavigne’s “Sk8er Boi.” These were awkward years, and while you might have complained about the music, you secretly enjoyed the attention from girls who finally noticed you. And who could forget OPM’s “Heaven Is A Halfpipe?” The lyrics resonated deeply, especially the line, “If I die before I wake, at least in heaven I can skate.”
The Era of Slim, Not Fat, Pro Skaters
It’s common to see older generations of pro skaters looking different from their prime, and the early 2000s were no exception. Figures like Bam Margera and Brian Wenning were celebrated for their talents – Bam’s Jackass antics and Wenning’s pop-outs – but both became “heavyweight honchos” later in life. It was a time when the ideal skateboarder was typically lean and athletic.
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Shoelace Belts: A Functional Fashion Statement
Shoelace belts were a quintessential early 2000s trend. Whether you were avoiding studded leather or simply needed a quick fix, a shoelace was the answer. While practical, the shoelace belt had its drawbacks, often revealing if you were wearing a thong. The solution was usually baggy shirts or boxers pulled up high, as a way to maintain a semblance of style.
Leeann Tweeden: The Face of Bluetorch TV
After school, Bluetorch TV was the go-to for many young skaters. While the programming included snowboarding, surfing, and BMX, it was Leeann Tweeden who kept viewers hooked. Introducing segments from Foundation’s Art Bars, she became the ideal girl in the eyes of many young male skaters. Her presence alone was enough to keep you watching.
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The Portable CD Player Struggle
The struggle with portable CD players was real. The “skip protection” was not always reliable, and having your music cut out mid-song was incredibly frustrating. While some of the wealthier kids had RiOs, many had to settle for skipping CD players and waiting to make the full leap into the digital age with an MP3 player.
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The Allure of the Piss Drunx
Despite not being old enough to drink, many young skaters idolized the Piss Drunx. Their rebellious, counter-culture aesthetic was appealing, and it was common to see teens rocking leather jackets and boards with the PD logo. Whether you eventually adopted a sober approach like some of the pros, or continued down the path of rebellion, the Piss Drunx had a lasting impact.
DC Shoes: The Reigning Shoe Empire
Before Nike SB rose to prominence, DC Shoes ruled the skate shoe market. They were known for their extravagant spending on cars, trips, and parties. They funded projects like Danny Way’s MegaRamp and the DC Video, and even offered $1,000,000 to keep LOVE Park open. Despite their clunky logo, they became a powerhouse, eventually being sold to Quicksilver for $87,000,000 in 2004.
Conclusion
The early 2000s were a unique period in skateboarding history, characterized by trends like shoelace belts, the rise of digital media, and the influence of skate icons. From the struggle of CD players to the excitement of skate videos, these elements formed a distinct culture. While many trends and moments may elicit a cringe now, they are a reminder of the exciting, sometimes awkward, time when skateboarding went mainstream. This era laid the foundation for the skateboarding we know today, and remains an unforgettable chapter for those who lived through it.
