Have you ever eaten dirt because you ran over a tiny little pebble? How about finding a sick spot only to realize it’s been covered with skatestoppers? How about getting a near-full from a scooter kid’s mom for being too “fast” or “aggressive” at the skate park? Today, we’re diving into the things that skaters hate. You’ll learn about the pet peeves that will have you clutching your boards tighter than a fresh grip tape.
The top things that skaters can’t stand
Let’s dive into the biggest pet peeves skaters have that others might not understand.
1. Rocks and pebbles
Pebbles might appear benign, but they account for an incredibly high number of skateboard accidents. It seems almost unreal that these minute rocks can cause such widespread havoc, and yet, every skater has a story of a thrilling ride cut short by a pebble. They’re like the David to our Goliath-sized passion for skating, proving that size isn’t always an indicator of impact.
Newbies learn this lesson the hard way, falling victim to these diminutive yet insidious little menaces. Skateboarding might have its unavoidable dangers, but having your day ruined by a pebble isn’t the kind of adrenaline rush that anyone signs up for.
2. Rough concrete
Next up on our list is rough concrete. Imagine taking a leisurely ride down the street only to find your board violently juddering under you, causing excruciating vibration in your joints and kneecaps. That’s what skating on rough and uneven concrete feels like. Worse, it’s not even a badge-of-honor kind of pain; it’s just annoying, plain, and simple.
Rough concrete not only affects the quality of a skater’s ride, but it can also result in unnecessary injuries when riders wipe out.
3. Skate stoppers
Picture this: you’re cruising around your hood, eyes catching that sick handrail, already imagining the shred session of a lifetime. But boom! The next day, those handrails are swarming with skatestoppers. These little pests don’t just stink; they’re a sign of how misunderstood our culture is.
Designed with the “noble” intent of saving public property, they don’t just trip us up—they limit public spaces for everyone. And let’s be real, they don’t protect as much as they harm. Every time I see a perfect spot get “stopped,” it feels like a piece of our urban playground’s been stolen.
It’s a tough pill to swallow, knowing that our love for the sport is often reduced to being seen as a mere nuisance. So, if you ever wonder why we’re not stoked about skate stoppers, well, now you’ll know.
4. Scooter kids
Okay, this is a big one. You’re at the park, getting ready to shred, and bam! Out of nowhere, a scooter kid cuts right in front of you, throwing off your entire vibe. It’s like setting up the perfect playlist and then getting hit with a random ad. Just kills the momentum, you know?
Showing up to a skate park and finding it flooded with scooter kids? Not exactly what I’d call a solid choice for a skate day. These young guns, with their zigzagging and unpredictable moves, aren’t just messing with our tricks—they’re turning the skatepark into an obstacle course. And trust me, nothing’s more frustrating than bailing on an epic half-pipe session because you’re dodging a scooter.
But here’s the thing: skate parks aren’t just playgrounds. They’re where we hone our skills, perfect our craft, and get that killer adrenaline rush. We’re all for sharing the love and the space, but a bit of respect goes a long way. Parents, if your kiddo’s more about playtime than serious scootering, maybe guide them to spots where they won’t crash the party for us skaters.
Now, I get it. Some of these scooter kids are just out for laughs, having a good time, maybe even trying to get under our skin a bit. But for us skaters, especially those really trying to nail a trick or just have a smooth session, it’s a real buzzkill. We’re all about fostering understanding and inclusivity, but remember, respect’s a two-way street, especially in a skate park.
5. Posers
Posers—oh man, they’re like the mosquitoes of skateboarding culture. Not actually part of us, yet buzzing around, attempting to adapt our style and way of life without going through the grind. They deal a lot with nothing but surface-level appreciation and no understanding of the work it takes.
Meet posers—individuals donning our style, often buying from corporate brands but never stepping on a skateboard. The issue with them is that they stand on the outskirts of our culture, yet they try to claim what’s not theirs. It stings a bit more when you think of the hours you’ve spent pushing, kicking, and falling, only to have your culture copied by someone who likely doesn’t know an ollie from a kickflip.
6. Annoying pedestrians
Alright, here’s the deal: skateboarding is all about rhythm, flow, and that unbeatable sense of freedom. But man, there are times when pedestrians can seriously harsh our vibe. Picture this: you’re in the zone, cruising smoothly, and then, out of nowhere, someone decides to throw some unnecessary shade. I totally get the concern if I’m shredding up someone’s private space, but getting an earful in a public parking lot? Come on!
Now, the real kicker? Those folks who think just because we’ve got a board, we’re out to cause chaos. Like, really? Having a skateboard doesn’t mean we’re up to no good. Some run-ins with pedestrians can make even the most chill skater feel like they’re about to explode—Hulk-style.
And for the lovely people who think skate parks are prime spots for their casual strolls or those snap-worthy selfies—heads up: you’re kinda in the way. Plus, it’s not exactly the safest choice.
7. Nagging karens
Skaters and Karens—a match made in hell. Skaters often encounter huffs, puffs, and general opposition from individuals hell-bent on preventing them from enjoying a public space. These self-appointed guardians, commonly known as “Karens,” are often viewed with exasperation in the skating community due to their disruptive and antagonistic behavior.
Karens aren’t just a bane for skateboarders but a universal nuisance, and dealing with them has become something of an unfortunate rite of passage for skaters. It’s not the opposition to skateboarding that bugs skaters; it’s the approach alarmist Karens generally take that turns a friendly encounter into a full-blown conflict.
8. Security guards
Man, if I had a dime for every time a security guard tried to kill me jsut for skating, I’d probably have enough to build my own private skate park. Every skater, at some point, has had that unexpected rendezvous with a security guard who thinks they’re the next big action star.
Sure, they’re doing their job, and I respect that. But some of these guards? They’re on a whole different level. I mean, there’s sticking to your duty, and then there’s just being on an absolute power trip. You know the type: blowing their top over some imaginary rule or getting all up in your face like they’re auditioning for a tough-guy role.
It’s like, dude, you see a skateboard, and suddenly it’s “mission impossible” time? Come on. The worst part? Those guards that threaten to dial up the cops or, even wilder, decide they’re gonna go all action-hero and get physical. Talk about overkill.
It’s almost like they see us and think, “Alright, game on.” But in reality, we’re just there to skate. Having someone breathing down your neck or acting like they’re the sheriff in town? Not really part of the ideal sesh. So, to all the chill security folks out there, thanks for being cool. And to the others, maybe take a deep breath next time? We’re all just trying to have a good time.
9. Cops
Law enforcement frequently holds preconceived notions toward skaters, sometimes leading to unnecessary escalation. This prejudice is more prominent in regions where skateboarding is still perceived as an underground activity rather than a legitimate sport.
10. Corporate culture
We skaters have an innate instinct for authenticity. That’s why we don’t like major corporations trying to “fit in” with us. They often overlook local skate shops, places that truly foster our community. These shops invest back into the local skate scene, and our loyalty lies with them (support local skate shops!).
11. Stolen’ boards
Seriously, having your skateboard stolen can be soul-crushing. One moment, you’re grabbing a quick snack, and the next, your precious board vanishes! And you know what makes it even worse? The fact that it’s not always outsiders—but sometimes even fellow skaters pull that off. Not cool, people, not cool.
12. Bad bearings
Nothing kills a good ride faster than a bad bearing. The reduced speed and maneuverability can cause even the best skaters a world of frustration.
13. Unfinished skate parks
A perfect example of a good concept gone bad. Unfinished skateparks are a common source of annoyance. They often leave skaters clinging onto hope while simultaneously needing to watch out for construction elements that haven’t been cleared away yet.
14. Poorly designed skate parks
Even if it gets finished, it might be a terrible park. From awkward ramps and cracked concrete to overcrowded parks, these are the stuff of nightmares for any skater. A poorly designed park can quickly suck the fun out of your skateboarding experience.
We’ve all had that one cranky, unfavorable park that we can’t avoid, no matter how hard we try. Whether it’s the only park near your home or the meeting point for your squad, you just can’t seem to break up with it.
15. Overcrowded skate spots
Overcrowded skate spots and parks are challenging. Skaters come to shred, looking for a day of flips, ollies, and tailslides, but what you get instead is dodging newcomers left and right just to get a smooth run. It’s like navigating an obstacle course with a twist—one false move, and you might wipe out someone else’s kid.
16. Impractical expectations from beginners
Alright, let’s talk about the bar set for beginners. It’s somewhat expected that you’ll be dropping in on verts and landing three flips in like a week, right? Hall-of-fame-worthy moves in an unrealistic timeframe are what we’re talking about here. And let’s be real, that kind of pressure is not doing any newbies any good.
Skating, at its core, is about personal growth and progression. Sure, we all know about that one prodigy that seemed to pop out of nowhere, but expecting every newbie to leap to stardom is as ridiculous as it gets.
17. Excessive waxing
Wax is a skater’s best friend and worst enemy. We love it because it eases our ride and lets us slide and grind without a hitch. Then comes the ‘Over-Zealous Waxer.’ A ledge or rail so slick that your board shoots out from under you—we’re talking zero friction, zero control! You are now officially a victim of overwashing.
Why does this make the list? Because it happens way too often and can lead to unnecessary falls and injuries. It’s not just a minor inconvenience; it can be a real safety hazard.
18. The misunderstood skater lifestyle
“You’ll understand when you’re older,” they say. Well, guess what? We are older, and they still don’t understand. “Why do you keep injuring yourself? Isn’t it just a hobby? Why don’t you try something safer, like swimming or running?” The questions never end.
It’s not the questions that bug us; it’s the underlying lack of understanding. Skating is not just about flipping tricks on a board. It’s a mindset, a lifestyle, and a community. To us, the feeling of landing a trick after countless tries is comparable to nothing else. But trying to explain this to old-school parents or teachers can be an uphill battle, leaving us feeling seriously misunderstood.
19. Non-skater friends
There’s the endless frustration caused by friends who don’t skate, simply not understanding the passion and grinding (literal and figurative) that goes into this sport. From the unhelpful “Why don’t you just get a bike?” to the exasperating “do a trick” demands, it’s a social disconnect that only skaters will truly grasp. Sometimes, you wish your non-skate friends could walk (or skate) a day in your shoes, right?
20. Unrealistic expectations on social media
The pressure of social media can take a toll on any skater. With perfectly curated feeds of flip tricks and gnarly ramps, it’s easy to feel inadequate. Add to that the constant barrage of people flaunting their latest gear and accessories, and it can really grind on you.
An important thing to remember, though, is that social media is only a highlight reel. Everyone has their offs and crashes. But acknowledging the pressure and not getting impacted by it is easier said than done. It’s a struggle to not compare ourselves to others, making this a solid contender on our list.
21. Rainy days and non-skateable weather
Rain is a skater’s nemesis. When you’re stoked to shred and the skies just pour down, Those days when you’re itching to skate but the weather just won’t cooperate—we feel you!
Rainy days or frigid weather that messes with your grip tape and board in general can be real buzzkills. From soggy, slippery boards to compounded frustration, it’s a struggle that resonates with us all. It’s pretty much something we’d pack away in the “things only skaters understand” box.
And, when rainwater seeps into your grip tape, it makes your sturdy board slippery and unreliable. It’s like trying to ride a fish—entirely impossible and highly unsafe!
22. Inconsistent skate shop prices
Now, everyone expects to shell out some dough on our gear, but when the prices are as inconsistent as our pop-shuvit landing, it can be a bit bothersome. From trucks and bearings to even grip tape, the price range can be wildly inconsistent across skate shops.
A little transparency—that’s all we ask for. It’s really a bummer when you have to overpay, knowing fully well you could’ve gotten the same gear cheaper somewhere else.
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
Some of the stuff I hate while skating
Don’t get me started on the posers. Decked out head-to-toe in skate gear, but can they even kickflip? Doubt it. Oh, and there was that one time with that the ever-vigilant security guard, decided I was public enemy number one for just cruising in the park.
The deeper I dive into this skateboarding world, the clearer it becomes: it’s not just about the rides; it’s the challenges, the stumbles, the whole shebang. And despite the sprains, the scrapes, and the occasional ego bruise, I’m all in. (Though, I’ll admit, I might be on the lookout for some solid beginner wheels to dodge those pebble ambushes.)
Look, I’ve been on both sides of the skate fence—from the newbie trying to figure out the do’s and don’ts to feeling the stoke of landing a trick right. And sure, there are moments when I slide on an over-waxed ledge, thinking I’ve stepped into some alternate ice-skating dimension. Or when I’m scrolling through Insta, seeing kids half my age pulling off insane tricks, making me wonder if my ollie game will ever be on point.
But here’s the thing: every tumble, every battle scar—it’s a chapter in our skate story. It’s about pushing limits, growing, and most importantly, it’s about the community.
If you are a visual learner, check out the video below from YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nothing bolsters understanding a subject more than a good old FAQ session. We’ve just journeyed through skateboarding and its unique pet peeves, so let’s tackle some frequently thrown-around queries to round it out.
Why do skaters have beef with posers?
Posers, man. Decked out in skate gear but rarely, if ever, on a board We skaters have put in the sweat, the falls, the hours. So, seeing someone rock the look without understanding the grind It feels like they’re watering down our authentic skate culture.
Why is social media a double-edged sword for skaters?
Platforms like Instagram give us a stage to share and learn. But there’s a flip side. The constant stream of clips can make us feel like we’re lagging, stacking our journey against others, and sometimes piling on the pressure.
Any way around overcrowded skateparks?
The hack? Timing. Hitting the park during off-peak hours—think early birds or night owls—can give you more space to move and groove. Plus, the vibe during these cooler hours? Absolutely killer.
Why do skaters have beef with scooter kids?
Ah, scooter kids. Often zooming around without a care, they can unintentionally disrupt our flow or even lead to collisions. For a deeper dive into this dynamic.
Final thoughts
Skateboarding, like any passion, comes with its own set of challenges and quirks. And for us on the board, there’s a strange mix of things we love to hate. Rocks, pedestrians, skate stoppers—you name it. But remember, these pet peeves aren’t obstacles to enjoying the sport; they are part and parcel of the whole skating journey.
Let me know your questions in the comments section below. I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, feel free to share it with a buddy, and why not take a gander at my full blog for more skating tips and tricks? Thanks for reading, and remember, ride with pride and let every stumble drive you forward! (or something like that)
Key takeaways
This article covered the unique peeves that skateboarding enthusiasts often encounter. Here are some key takeaways:
- Rocks and cracks: unexpected detours in our skate journey.
- Skate stoppers: protective for the city, buzzkill for skaters.
- Pedestrians, security, and cops: a tricky navigation dance.
- Posers and mainstream brands: often miss the skate culture mark.
- Rain: turns smooth skate parks into slippery challenges.
- Social media: inspiration source, but also a pressure cooker.
- Skate shop prices: a consistent gripe for skaters.
- Excessive waxing: potential safety hazard.
- Scooter kids and crowded spots: disrupt the skate flow.
- Stereotypes: often miss the mark, impacting the skate community.
- Authenticity matters: a genuine understanding of skate life is key.
Helpful resources
- Skateboarding
- How to Differentiate Between a Real Skater and a Poser Skater
- Skateboarding Attitude: A Blessing and A Curse
- Is It a Bad Idea to Skateboard when The Ground Is Wet?
- Do Skateboarders Have Such a Negative View in Society?
- To Wax or Not to Wax?
- Skateboarding On Rough Roads
- Bristol skateboarders take on ‘skatestopper’ defensive architecture
- What to Do if Your Skateboard Gets Wet? Important Things
