Many might recall fingerboarding as a simple plastic toy from their school days. However, its origins trace back to Lance Mountain, who is credited with creating the first fingerboards, long before the popular Tech Decks. Intrigued by fingerboarding and its connection to skateboarding, we set out to explore a DIY fingerboard park tucked away in Queens.
It’s rare to find skate spots, even regular-sized ones, that are well-maintained. The fact that this fingerboard park has expanded and evolved is a testament to the builders, Benson and Jaren, and other dedicated contributors.
We spent a day at the fingerboard DIY, known as @fingerboardega, immersing ourselves in this unique subculture thriving in our own backyard, learning about its intricacies and the passion behind it.
A wide shot of the DIY fingerboard park, showcasing the various concrete obstacles and ramps.
The fingerboard park features an array of concrete obstacles, including mini ramps, ledges, and rails, meticulously crafted for fingerboarders to perform tricks. The effort put into the park is evident, reflecting a deep passion for the activity. Each obstacle is a scaled-down replica of those found in traditional skateparks, allowing for similar maneuvers but on a miniature scale. This attention to detail highlights the dedication of the creators and the unique appeal of fingerboarding.
A close-up of a fingerboarder performing a trick on a small concrete ramp.
The local fingerboard scene is a tight-knit community. The DIY park serves as a gathering spot, providing a space for enthusiasts to meet, share tips, and showcase their skills. This sense of community strengthens the fingerboarding culture, creating a welcoming environment for newcomers and a supportive atmosphere for seasoned riders. The passion for fingerboarding is palpable, as each person invests time and effort into perfecting their techniques.
The level of dedication within the fingerboarding community is remarkable. Builders like Benson and Jaren have invested significant time and resources into creating and maintaining the park. Their commitment reflects a deep love for the hobby and a desire to provide a high-quality place for others to practice. The park is continuously evolving, as new features are added, ensuring that fingerboarders always have fresh obstacles to explore.
Exploring the DIY fingerboard park was an enlightening experience. We realized that fingerboarding isn’t just a childhood pastime; it’s a vibrant community with dedicated enthusiasts. The park’s existence showcases the creativity and passion that drive this unique activity, offering a glimpse into an often overlooked but highly engaging subculture within the skateboarding world. It’s inspiring to see how much effort goes into creating these miniature skate spots, mirroring the dedication found in the larger skateboarding community.
In conclusion, this DIY fingerboard park in Queens is a testament to the ingenuity and community spirit within the fingerboarding world. It’s a space where creativity and skill come together, reminding us that passion can thrive in the most unexpected places. This visit has reinforced our appreciation for the dedication of DIY enthusiasts and the unique culture they’ve created.
Video by: Greg Navarro
