Skatepark Etiquette

Lining up for a turn at Jindalee Skatepark

Scooter riders often get a bad rap around the skateparks. Some say it’s because scooter riders are taking over. Or that there’s no respect for our skills. And in some cases that’s true, but the issue is bigger than that. It’s all about Skatepark Etiquette.

Skateboarders and BMX Riders have always had an uneasy standoff. They shared the parks for ages and don’t really like each other. But they somehow manage to get by using a simple set of rules that help improve safety and flow. What they really don’t like about scooter riders is that some don’t stick to them.

So we’ll fill you in and you can decide for yourself.

  1. No Snaking

    This is the single biggest issue for Skaters and BMX Riders. No Snaking means wait your turn. Think of the skatepark or ramp as having a line-up. If you have a run, you go to the back of the line. If you decide to jump in again before your turn, that’s Snaking. Snaking is a big no no in many circles and repeat offenders may get dropped in on.
  2. No Marathon Runs

    A marathon run is any run that seems to go on and on. Just because you are capable of doing a 2 minute run doesn’t mean you should. If you ignore this rule and nobody snakes, think how long it’ll be before you get a turn again! A bit of simple maths – 15 riders, 2 minute runs each, that’s 1/2 hour before each person gets a second run. Yawn.
  3. Your run ends when you don’t land it

    This one is open to interpretation, but it means you need to land with both feet on the scooter. You may be right landing on one foot, but no feet and your run is over. Now this is where it gets sticky. Some will accept you dropping back in once or twice without landing. Others may give you 30 seconds or so. But there is an invisible line that you shouldn’t cross. A marathon run without landing anything, after snaking, is not good.
  4. Keep clear

    Once you’ve done your run, get out of the way. Don’t stand around next to the coping or in the middle of an element. If you’re up next, you’ll want to show your intention without getting in the way. If someone is heading towards you, take a step back and leave a clear path. Tricks can go onto the platform so be aware. Just because you don’t use it doesn’t mean someone else won’t. Also be sure not to drop in on anybody. Don’t take up the flatland by learning tricks there. You should do this away from the skatepark This also goes for where you sit. Don’t just park yourself on a ledge that gets used. Find somewhere else out of the way where you can watch all the action.
  5. Don’t be a jerk

    There’s a lot of ways to annoy people at a skatepark, including all of the above. However there are many more. A few things to avoid: – If someone is trying hard to land a trick, don’t go and do it right in front of them. And don’t laugh, that was you once.
    – Don’t pick on the little kids, or anyone for that matter.
  6. Show Respect

    This one covers a lot of ground, but has to be said. Respect your environment, respect the locals, and respect everyone’s right to be there and have a good time.

So there you have it, the basic rules of Skate Park Etiquette. There are a few riders that break these in my area, and unfortunately we all get painted with the same brush.

A bit of respect goes a long way.

We will be happy to hear your thoughts

Leave a reply

ProScooter
Logo
Register New Account
Compare items
  • Total (0)
Compare
0