Navigating the social dynamics of a local skate shop can be tricky, regardless of where you are. It’s a space where the vibe can shift depending on who’s around. Will the local pro be there, showcasing their latest tricks? And what about that person behind the counter who seems to always be watching, do they even work there? If you’re looking to become a regular, you need to understand the unspoken rules. Here are some tips to help you go from a newcomer to a familiar face in no time.
Becoming a shop regular has perks, from being first in line for new deck releases to getting the inside scoop on the latest shoe drops. So, if you want to be “in,” it’s time to follow these guidelines.
Skate shop etiquette header
Master the Art of Shirt Selection
Skate shops often have unique branded shirts that you won’t find in big retail stores. If you’re thinking about buying one, go ahead and unfold them all as you browse. You wouldn’t want to get the wrong size, would you? Plus, most skaters aren’t great at folding clothes—it’s a skill you usually learn working at a shop. So, let them show off their folding skills for a bit. This also gives you a chance to closely examine the shirt’s design and quality, ensuring you make the best purchase.
Unfolding shirts
Test Ride Your Deck Before You Buy
The only way to know if a skateboard deck is right for you is to stand on it and do a few shuv-its. This helps you check the concave and tail shape. Make sure to place the deck on the hardwood floor, not the carpet. Hardwood is more like the street than a fluffy rug, and you want an authentic feel. Kick the board a few times to check for that satisfying pop sound that all great decks have. Don’t worry about ripping the plastic, right? The shop guys won’t mind! This tactile test ensures you’re selecting a deck that feels right for your riding style.
Testing a skateboard deck
Negotiate Like a Pro: Price Matching
Shop employees love discussing prices and discounts, mainly because every customer asks for one. To jump into the fun, ask to try on a shoe in your size. While they are getting the box, Google the shoe and open multiple tabs showing cheaper online prices. When they come back, show them your phone and ask them to match the lowest price. Don’t forget to say “please” – being polite goes a long way. This technique adds a playful edge to your shopping experience and might just save you some money.
Price matching
Share Your Skate History Lessons
Everyone loves a good skate history lesson. If you want to be “that guy,” start sharing stories from the “good old days” with the younger employees. Tell them about shop signings, and every pro who sold you a used board in the parking lot. They need to know this stuff if they want to be part of the current scene. Sharing stories connects generations and establishes you as a respected figure in the local skate scene.
Talking about skate history
The Art of the Hustle: Selling (Fake) Goods
Part of skateboarding is getting used to people trying to sell you things you don’t want, whether it’s a chipped deck, old shoes, or some low-quality weed. Introduce kids to this experience in a safe environment by turning the shop into a part-time dispensary. Any parents around will surely appreciate your effort in “educating” their kids. This adds a humorous element to the skate shop culture while playing on the common experiences of the community.
Selling weed
Critique the Shop’s Video Selection
Skating is all about liking the most obscure stuff and then teasing people who don’t know about it. This goes for board brands, shoe brands, local crews, and especially videos. Everyone hates the types of skaters who are always talking about the “classics” like Mouse and Video Days. The coolest skaters find the low-fi edit with under 2,000 views on Vimeo. No matter what the shop is playing, tell them it’s not as good as “Summer 2018 Edit [ESKEDDIT REMIX v2]” and then airdrop them the link. This shows your deep knowledge of skate culture and establishes you as a trendsetter.
Critiquing skate videos
The Ultimate Test: Pants Without Underwear
This one’s a given. Swamp ass is terrible, and sometimes you have to ditch your sweaty underwear after a hard skate session to avoid chafing. Before you buy a new pair of pants, you have to know what it will feel like to go commando. So, hop in the dressing room, strip down, and let those Vans Chino Glide Pros test out your giblets. This unconventional method highlights the practicalities of skating and adds a touch of humor to your experience.
Trying on pants
By following these somewhat satirical tips, you’ll not only navigate the skate shop culture with ease, but you’ll also become a memorable figure within your local skateboarding community. Remember, a little bit of humor and shared experience can go a long way in becoming a true shop local.
