Skateboarding is an exciting and adrenaline-filled activity that has millions of fans all over the world. Skateboarders love the freedom of being able to take their board anywhere and ride it at any time. Despite this, there are also times when they love to flock to skate parks to shred with fellow skaters and fulfill their passion. Skate parks offer a unique atmosphere that appeals to skaters, yet some of their qualities are also simultaneously resisted. This article will examine why skaters love and resist skateboard parks.
What Skate Parks Offer
Skateboard parks provide an ideal environment for skaters to practice their tricks and explore new ones. It’s an open atmosphere with a vibrant atmosphere that encourages creativity. Skate parks enable skaters to be part of their own community. Not only do they provide space to practice, but they are also often accompanied with vibrant music that further enhances the experience.
Furthermore, most parks will have several different types of set-ups and arrangements available, so skaters can adapt the terrain to their own particular needs. Skateboarding can be done in public or out of sight, but skate parks provide security to the skaters so they don’t need to worry about the public or law enforcement.
Why Skaters Love Skate Parks
The freedom of skateboarding is especially appealing to skaters. With variety in terrains at skate parks, skaters can test out their skills outside of their regular terrain. Additionally, skate parks provide formal rules and regulations, ensuring a safer and more comfortable atmosphere.
Skaters also love being part of an environment that’s dedicated solely to skateboarding. This gives them the opportunity to meet fellow skaters and build relationships, often forming a bond that spans lifetimes of friendship and countless memorable experiences. Aside from the friendship, many parks have a competition scene, allowing skilled skaters to compete on a regular basis.
Skate parks also provide a level playing field for professionals and casual riders alike. The ability to share both skills and knowledge is often celebrated by skaters. The unique vibe that skate parks create is like a second home for many, consisting of an eclectic and electric mix of culture, music and like-minded individuals.
Finally, skate parks are also a great spokesperson for the industry, often seen as the heart and soul of skateboarding and its culture.
Why Skaters Resist Skate Parks
Despite the aforementioned benefits that skate parks offer, they also contain elements that skaters sometimes resist.
The biggest issue is the cost. Most parks are private and require a fee to enter. This makes it difficult for certain communities, as those of lower incomes may struggle to access the parks.
Another qualm skaters have is overcrowding. Although skating is a team-oriented sport where riders often socialize, overcrowding can also lead to conflict, tension and misbehavior. Furthermore, overcrowding can also cause skaters to feel unsafe and as if their space is being taken away.
The design of certain parks is also resisted. Skaters want parks to be designed specifically for riding and not just to look good. For example, some parks will have a single width path that’s too long and straight, which can be incredibly boring and lack a sense of excitement, rather than a widely designed obstacle course.
Skaters also don’t like the stigma associated with skate parks. There’s a false assumption that skateboarders are troublemakers or delinquents. This stereotype has existed for decades, yet is still relevant today, causing skaters to sometimes feel uncomfortable in parks and unwilling to attend.
Skate parks offer an amazing atmosphere for skaters to come and practice their skills. From the freedom of being able to take their board anywhere, to meeting and bonding with fellow riders, as well as the opportunities for competitions and knowledge-sharing, there’s no doubt that skate parks provide a unique experience that can be cherished by many. Despite this, there are also certain drawbacks that skaters resist, such as the cost, overcrowding, park designs and the stigma associated with skate parks. At the end of the day, skaters love and resist skate parks, but they still remain one of the most popular destinations for skaters to express their passion.
