For those of us who grew up in the suburbs, there’s an undeniable charm to the humble driveway. It was our first skatepark, a place where we honed our skills on cracked concrete and uneven inclines. We’d scavenge scrap wood to build makeshift ramps, much to the dismay of our parents’ pristine lawns. Now, with many of us spending more time at home, we’re revisiting our roots and rediscovering the simple joy of driveway skating. This article celebrates the spirit of driveway skateboarding with a collection of inspiring clips.
Driveway skating is a rite of passage for many suburban skaters, finding endless possibilities in their home's pavement.
Skate Dads and Daughters: Passing Down the Passion
In the old days, capturing skateboarding milestones wasn’t as easy as it is today. It’s heartwarming to see skaters document and share those first magical moments, like landing a trick for the first time. While my own dad offered a gruff “nice one” after my first kickflip, today’s skate dads are often right there with a camera, sharing the stoke with the world.
We see two great examples here: First, pro skater Darren Harper demonstrates foot placement for his daughter who then lands a crisp kickflip. Then, Tony Hawk shares a video of a young Ukrainian girl, brimming with joy after landing a four-down. These moments show how the love for skateboarding transcends generations and borders.
The Quarantine Kook: A Hilarious Learning Curve
The recent surge in skateboard sales during lockdowns is proof that it’s never too late to learn the art of skateboarding. Our “Quarantine Kook” embodies this, capturing the clumsy but determined spirit of a beginner. Fresh from a session in his parents’ driveway, he attempts a casual board-catch but it goes hilariously wrong. His reaction, a mix of laughter and frustration, is something many of us can relate to, underscoring the often-comical nature of learning to skate.
The Jamie Foy Ramp Slam: Even Pros Started Somewhere
Even a Skater of the Year has to start somewhere, and Jamie Foy’s early days involved some pretty spectacular slams. In this clip, a young Jamie, wearing a sideways hat, is towed by a motorcycle towards a small kicker, only to get brutally thrown by some bad weight distribution. The filmer’s “Oh shit” perfectly encapsulates the impending doom, a reminder that even the most talented skaters have faced their share of setbacks. This moment is a testament to the dedication required to improve, and that even the most skilled skaters have faced challenges early on.
This Damn Ass Rock: A Driveway Classic
This clip is an absolute treasure, embodying the raw, unfiltered essence of early 2000s driveway skateboarding. With its shredded jeans, blue Phantom trucks, and a classic man-versus-nature theme, it’s a perfect slice of suburban life. The storyline, complete with a strange revenge plot, could easily be the work of Spike Jonze. The central question—did Austin ever get to pee on that rock?—is something that continues to resonate with anyone who has ever encountered a stop-rock. He is our meanest general in the war against them.
Jaws’ Jury Rigging: Pushing the Limits
Aaron ‘Jaws’ Homoki is known for his daring stunts, often involving roofs and other precarious structures. Here, he tests the structural integrity of his own home, riding off the roof onto his car, lip sliding a flatbar, and ultimately landing a corkscrew roll-on grind into his garage door. His fearless and unconventional approach to skateboarding highlights how anything can be a skate spot with enough imagination and skill.
Young Thug in the Pink 12s: Style and Confidence
Confidence is paramount in skateboarding, and Young Thug exudes it effortlessly. Dressed in a Hermes belt and pink Jordan 12s, he confidently lands a jump, rides down the driveway, and over the infamous asphalt lip. He’s proof that skateboarding is as much about style and self-expression as it is about skill. While he may not be known for his skateboarding prowess, his unconventional approach and surprising abilities make him a captivating skater.
Todd Falcon’s Entire Existence: The Driveway Legend
No list of driveway skaters is complete without mentioning the legendary Todd Falcon. He’s a testament to the potential of a simple driveway as he’s made it his personal playground, unlocking every level of skateboarding the game has to offer. Todd’s creativity is boundless and he has invented countless tricks there, solidifying his position as the world’s greatest driveway skateboarder. His dedication and creativity have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible on a driveway.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Driveway Skateboarding
Driveway skating is more than just a pastime; it’s a rite of passage, a place of discovery, and a canvas for creativity. Whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes or a seasoned pro pushing the limits, the driveway offers endless possibilities. So, grab your board, head outside, and embrace the unique magic of driveway skateboarding. Let the spirit of these clips inspire you to explore your own backyard skatepark and create your own stories.
Words: CK
Illustration: Michael Giurato
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