Top 10 Etiquette Rules for Skateparks
The Skatepark is a second home, it's the first place we go in the morning before school/work and place we visit after work/school. It's a place to meet up with friends at the weekends, the Skatepark is rarely empty.
Most Skateparks have a sign stating the Skatepark rules but there's also a list of unwritten things that every Skater knows not to do at the Skatepark, this is Skatepark etiquette.
Learn to Skate first
As tempting as it is to dive right into the Skatepark, it's important to be confident with basic Skating skills before going. It doesn't matter how inexperienced you are as long as you know the basics of Skateboarding, you will be able to Skate most parks with medium steep ramps.
Don’t try to figure out a Skatepark during the rush hours
If you're learning to Skate try to choose a time when the park is likely to be quiet. We suggest mornings are the best as children are at school and adults are still working. You're likely to have the park to yourself.
Whereas the worst times to Skate and practice are usually early evening, late afternoon and anytime during the weekends.These are peak times and the time the Skatepark is full of people, if you're a beginner you may get in the way.
Respect each other
Kindness goes a long way. It doesn’t matter if someone is on a BMX, Scooter, Skateboard or Roller Skates, everyone h0as an equal right to be in the park. Don't mock people of lower ability or people who are learning. Help others, encourage them to get better, and build a safe/happy environment where people feel encouraged to learn and join the sport. Don't be a gatekeeper. Remember everyone was once a beginner in the Skatepark. If you use the park properly and treat other users with respect they will treat you the same.
Keep the Skatepark Clean
Depending on how much time you spend at a Skatepark, it can become your second home. For some of us, we actually spend more time at the Skatepark than our actual homes.
Don’t litter, clean up after yourselves if you take care of the Skatepark it will take care of you.
Pro tip: Bring a broom, towel, brush, and shovel. Super handy for quick cleanups and a great way to win kudos with the locals.
No Snaking
We aren't talking about reptiles here. We’re talking about Skaters who recklessly and consistently cut the line. It’s proper Skatepark etiquette to wait your turn. Somebody is going to get hurt if you don’t have the patience. If it’s a bowl, mini-vert or Mini Skate Ramp, then it’s strictly one person at a time. Keep in mind that there are other people at the Skatepark besides yourself, let them have their turn.
Shout ‘Board’
If you bail or fall and lose control of your Skateboard, shouting ‘BOARD’ will help avoid accidents and collisions with another Skater or passer by. Skaters want a heads up that a board is creeping up at them especially when it’s moving with some velocity. Most people are concentrating on Skating instead of looking out for flying boards.
Ledges aren't benches
When you’re having a break from riding don’t go onto or sit on any part of the Skatepark course. Most Skaters will be nice and just ask you to please shift.
Don’t forget about the spectators. If anyone that you bring with you is not Skating, there are benches available for people to sit and watch.
Remember to supervise your kids.The Skatepark isnt a playground and your kids could get hurt, don't let them climb on the Skate Ramps or run across the Skatepark.
Skate Protection
Even though you don't have to wear Skate Protection, Skateboarding is a dangerous sport. We recommend that everyone wear Helmets, Knee Pads and Skate Protective Gear when riding the Skatepark.
Just Ask?
Can I drop in? Are you using this rail? Can I wax it? Do you want to play SKATE? Can you show me how to Ollie? All these questions are polite yet simple, and also a great way to make friends.
Hype each other up
There's no better feeling than landing a new trick you have been learning for days, weeks, maybe even years. A great way to show proper etiquette is to always Hype someone up and congratulate them, Someone lands a trick? Smack your board on the ground or yell out to the Skater. Encourage anyone from young to old, from beginners to pros and always keep in perspective what a Skatepark is all about. It's a place where people meet to develop and share their passion in Skateboarding, Roller Skating, BMXing and Scootering.
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