Skatepark etiquette
- Prerequisites:
- Introduction, Picking a skateboard, Regular or goofy, Pushing
Source: Ungraceful Movement
The Unwritten Rules (Written!)
Skateparks can be scary places at first, especially when busy with experienced riders. Once you understand the rules and learn how to respect the park and it's users you will be skating with confindence and feel accepted!
Before you try it
Get confident on your board before going to a skatepark. If possible, find a quiet car park or smooth area of flat ground and learn to roll around and balance. If your local park has a flatground area then that's a bonus!
The Rules
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Observe the flow of the skatepark - When you arrive at the park, spend some time observing the other riders. What obstacles are they hitting? Where are people starting and finishing? Consider where you can join in taking similar routes through the park, or ways you can skate that doesn't cut in somebody elses line!
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Take turns - When skating an obstacle or certain section of the park, take turns with the other park users. If it's a large group it can be hard to keep track, but at least be aware of how regularly you have skated compared to the others. Be aware not to hog an obstacle or take too long if there are other people waiting.
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Snaking (don't do it) - This is similar to the previous point but refers more to taking your turn as somebody is actively about to drop in, cutting somebody up that is already part-way through their turn or following closely behind somebody as they are about to hit a ramp or obstacle.
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Don't sit on the obstacles! Ledges are not benches, they are there to be skated. Don't put your things on them either!
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Not everybody knows the rules. Skateparks can often be filled with children and their parents who don't understand the skatepark etiquette. This is frustrating and can often ruin the flow of a session but they are allowed at the skatepark too! It's important to be aware that if you are about to drop in, there may be unpredictable behaviour ahead. Try to give younger park users a bit more space and understanding and when required adjust your speed and skating to minimise the risk of injury.
Find out more here:
Video by Ungraceful Movement
Common mistakes
- Feeling like you don't belong - everyone belongs at the skatepark, just take your turn and ease in gently!
- Expecting everyone to follow the rules - Everyone makes mistakes, try to forgive others for not knowing what they are doing. Respectfully educate others where appropriate.
How to know you've got it
Confidence in every session, you know where you belong and when it is your right to skate!