Navigating the social dynamics of a new skatepark can be daunting. You might feel unsure about which tricks are appropriate for each obstacle, and it’s common to feel like you’re constantly in the way. Even landing a difficult trick like a hardflip down a 7-stair set might not earn you the respect you crave if you haven’t established yourself within the skatepark community. To help you climb the skatepark hierarchy and earn the respect you deserve, here’s some essential advice. Remember, without respect, you might as well be riding a scooter.
Gaining respect at a skatepark isn’t about arrogance; it’s about contributing positively to the environment. It’s about showing that you’re not just there for yourself but also to enhance the experience for everyone else. This guide will help you make a positive impact and integrate into the community seamlessly.
Offer Genuine Trick Tips
Many skaters, especially those new to the sport, often feel hesitant to ask for advice, despite struggling with certain tricks. You can break the ice and offer assistance by observing others and noticing when someone seems to be having trouble with a specific move. Instead of shouting advice from afar, approach them casually, perhaps even grabbing their board while they take a break, and demonstrate the proper technique. This works best if you have an established look – maybe sporting a recognizable brand like a Hockey board or Dime beanie. This way, people are more likely to see you as a knowledgeable peer rather than just some random person. This subtle way of showing your expertise can quickly turn a potential interaction into a valuable learning experience for everyone.
A skater offering trick tips
Share the Good Vibes Discreetly
Skateboarding, like many other hobbies, has a social aspect that often includes a shared appreciation for relaxation. Consider approaching fellow skaters, casually letting them know that you have some high-quality cannabis products, mentioning their potency and price per gram. If you choose to do this, consider setting up a designated space on a picnic table or similar, away from the main skate area, where people can easily find you and partake. Keep in mind, however, that not everyone will share your view on this, so discretion is key. This way, you’re not directly engaging in the selling process in a pushy manner, but instead creating a scenario where the products are readily available to those who are interested. Remember to be respectful and adhere to local laws.
Promote Your Brand (But Be Subtle)
If you’re involved in a skateboarding-related brand, the skatepark can be a great place for organic promotion. However, instead of aggressively pushing your products, subtly drop mentions of your brand when appropriate. Inform skaters about your upcoming projects, whether it’s a new line of grip tape, bushings, or even wireless headphones designed specifically for skaters. Generate buzz by hinting at the exclusivity of your items, and then direct them to your social media account. This way, you’re not just selling them a product but also engaging in a meaningful interaction, fostering a connection that goes beyond a simple transaction.
Contribute to the Community
Skateboarding thrives on a sense of community. This shared connection means actively looking out for the wellbeing of others in the community. Even if you can’t execute every trick with ease, contributing to the park environment is crucial. If you notice someone struggling to grind a ledge, do your part by applying some wax. This act of kindness not only makes skating smoother for everyone but also shows that you are invested in the collective experience at the park.
Stay Authentic and Respectful
While the movie KIDS might depict a raw and unfiltered version of youth culture, directly replicating its more disruptive aspects in a modern skatepark is not the best path to earning respect. Instead of picking fights, spray-painting your tags, or spitting to mark your territory, focus on genuine interactions and collaborative spirit within the community. Respect the space and others by being a positive influence, which will lead to more organic and lasting respect within the community.
By focusing on genuine interaction, community support, and personal improvement, you’ll find that your reputation at the skatepark improves significantly. This isn’t just about individual tricks, but about your presence in the community as a whole.
