Interns at most companies fetch coffee. Ours explores the urban landscape, specifically, the unsung heroes (or villains) of street skating: curbs. Forget MBA’s and CEO’s; we tasked our intern to review various curb types. This isn’t just a menial task, it’s a deep dive into the concrete and metal that shapes our skate sessions.
Justin posing for this dumb photo
Rounded Metal Curbs: The Slappy Deception
Ubiquitous throughout the city, these rounded metal curbs often hide under mounds of garbage and lost tourists. They’re the go-to spot for those who claim to be slappy masters, but these curbs are deceptive. Someone who can “slappy” only on these is basically saying, “I cannot slappy anywhere else.” They’re the training wheels of curb skating and often a source of embarrassment. If you want to try and recreate this at home, some soup cans and liquid nails should do the trick.
A graphic banner illustrating how easy it is to make rounded metal curbs.
Rounded metal curbs
Straight Concrete Curbs: The Vanilla of the Streets
The most common and bland of the curb world, straight concrete curbs are like the vanilla soft serve of skateboarding. They serve their purpose, mainly to keep cars off sidewalks, without any flair. These are the default curb in many areas. In other cities, skaters need to make these skateable by rub-bricking, painting, and waxing. In NYC, the focus seems to be more on food delivery and Instagram.
A decorative banner separating the sections, highlighting different curb types.
Straight concrete curbs
Flat Metal Curbs: Skatepark Illusion
Flat metal curbs, with their sharp edges, appear to be the closest to skatepark ledges. Unfortunately, the experience isn’t the same. Usually rusty, these curbs often require some WD-40 before waxing. You’ll find these curbs in areas experiencing gentrification, surrounded by fancy apartments and trendy vegan restaurants. If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll meet a local who’ll use their dad’s credit card to treat you to a meal.
Another decorative banner, flipped horizontally, adding visual variety between sections.
Flat metal curbs
Cobblestone Curbs: Suburban Oddity
Cobblestone curbs are typically found in the suburbs. These are more frequented by soccer moms than skaters. While some might admire the medieval architecture, remember, castles didn’t have access to Arizona Ice Tea. These curbs aren’t winning. The present is a better place to be.
A decorative banner, flipped horizontally, adding visual variety between sections.
Cobblestone curbs
Smooth Marble Curbs: The NYC Gem
A recent addition to the city’s skate scene, a block-long marble curb has become a skater’s haven. This perfect spot is masterfully waxed with no cars or security to worry about. It is a rare find in NYC, much like discovering a subway car without any foul odors. It is a must-visit for any skater in town.
A decorative banner separating the sections, highlighting different curb types.
Smooth marble curbs
Broken Down Curbs: Nature’s Gritty Charm
While cities started to implement curbs as beautification projects in the 1800s, many haven’t been redone. Now, these broken slabs of concrete filled with cracks and weeds are classic features of the city. Though they aren’t skateable, they often signal the presence of good skate spots nearby. They are great for the scenery and offer greenery for those who think there isn’t enough nature in the city.
A decorative banner separating the sections, highlighting different curb types.
Broken down curbs
Conclusion: Curb Appeal
From the deceiving rounded metal to the perfect marble, curbs are an essential part of the urban skating experience. Each type brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. So, the next time you’re out skating, take a moment to appreciate the curbs around you. They may be more than just concrete and metal, they’re the canvas of our urban adventures.
Words by: Justin Saltiel.
