Ultimate Guide to Skatepark Etiquette

 

Skateparks are a world apart. They have their own culture and expectations, so you will want to know a little bit about the etiquette before you just show up for your first run. To give you a bit of a boost, we have put together the ultimate guide to skatepark etiquette. 

Ultimate Guide to Skatepark Etiquette

This guide aims to be general. All skateparks speak the same language, but you may notice differences in dialect. To learn more about the individual community at your skatepark, take some time to observe and ask questions if there’s someone with a friendly face who is taking a break. 

Skaters are generally a friendly bunch, so you shouldn’t have a hard time finding someone who will give you a minute or two of their time. With that said, here are some of the most important rules to keep in mind when you go to your first skatepark. 

Read the Posted Rules

Most skateparks will have a short list of rules posted out front to ensure the safety of the community. You should always wear full safety gear and read the rules to make sure you’re fully aware of the basics. 

Take the Time to Observe

Skateparks have an established flow. Skaters line up for runs in specific spots to wait their turn. They have an established flow of traffic and an expected run length. Watching for these patterns can help you feel a lot more at home. 

Do Not Leave Children Unattended

Skateparks are not safe places to leave your kids unattended, and it isn’t the job of other skaters to babysit them. If you bring a child to a skatepark, then you should be prepared to intervene immediately if your child is misbehaving or injured. 

For the best experience, bring your adult inline skates and skate with your child. That approach allows you to have fun and ensures you are always close. 

Let Other Skaters Do Their Thing

If you’re older or more experienced, you may feel the desire to “help” someone else. Other skaters will ask for help if they need it. Otherwise, they’re there learning and practicing just like everyone else, and they generally want to do so without interference.

Respect the Order of Skaters

“Snaking” is a cardinal sin among skaters. It’s essentially cutting, and it happens when you drop in for a run at the same time as someone who is waiting. It’s rude and dangerous, so just wait your turn with everyone else. 

Keep Runs Short

No one wants to wait a half-hour for their next run. In order to keep the peace, skaters keep their runs short and sweet. This is one of the reasons you should watch before you join in. Knowing how long the average run is will give you the best chance of not annoying other skaters. 

Don’t Stay Down

If you fall, it is really important that you get up as soon as possible. All it takes is one over-excited skater or a snake to make your fall that much worse. Unless you can’t physically walk, get up, walk it off, and have a laugh at your own expense. 

Warn Other Skaters of Risks

When you lose control of your board, you should always shout “board” so that other skaters know to look out. This applies to other serious risks while you’re at the skatepark. 

Don’t Go to a Skate Park if You’re Brand New

If you just got your first set of skates and gear off your roller skates online store, congrats and welcome to the sport. Other skaters will be happy to meet you, but you will want to adjust to your skates first. 

Small, community skateparks are not the place for beginners. Find a driveway, a sidewalk, a skating rink, or even a basketball court that is out of use to practice first. Once you’re skating smoothly on your own, go check out your skatepark.