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The heart of skateboarding can be found in city plazas around the globe

The heart of skateboarding can be found in city plazas around the globe

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Bros around the globe strike again. The focus is now on city plazas, the “ultimate hub for meeting and engaging with local skaters” during their travels. From Barcelona to New York, here is an alternative map of stoke with lots of tips. “Let’s just hope nobody calls security or the cops”.

A skateboarding trip to a new country delivers the opportunity to skate new spots and parks, explore unique cultures, indulge in authentic experiences, and connect with other skaters around the world. And when you can't find a skatepark, a city plaza is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local skate scene when you've just arrived in a foreign land.

A typical day at MACBA, THE skatespot in Barcelona. Photo By - Guille Alvarez

Bursting with energy, creativity, and a shared love for skateboarding, city plazas have become the ultimate hub for meeting and engaging with local skaters, artists, musicians, and other rad humans. Join me on a journey as we delve into why city plazas are the best places to connect with passionate like-minded individuals during your travels.

A Skateboarding Paradise

City plazas often offer an ideal environment for skateboarders, combining a variety of skate-friendly features that attract local riders. From perfectly smooth ground surfaces to an array of ledges, stairs, rails, and even skate parks nearby, plazas provide an exciting playground for skateboarders of any level. Plus, there’s always a convenience store just around the corner to grab a cold one, post-session. There’s no sound sweeter to a skateboarder than stomping a trick bolt on a marble slab, or the sound of a slappy on a freshly waxed curb. With shred-friendly features in place, city plazas have become a magnet for skateboarders. They’re a prime spot to witness the local talent, join in the session, or play a game of skate. Let’s just hope nobody calls security or the cops.

Love Park was a hive for skateboarding in the 90s and early 2000s, not just for Philadelphia, but for the world. Photo By - Smallbones

Community & Camaraderie

City plazas serve as a melting pot of diverse individuals from all walks of life, united by their shared passion for skateboarding. Skaters gather here not only to practice their craft but also to connect, exchange tips, and inspire one another. By immersing yourself in this environment, you'll be exposed to a vibrant community of skateboarders who are often more than willing to share their stories, experiences, and local insights. Need to know where to grab a tasty bite or a cool bar to go to? No worries, they got you! No matter where you find yourself in the world, a strong sense of camaraderie within the skateboarding community fosters a welcoming atmosphere. You may even leave with new friendships and unforgettable memories.

Taking in the incredible condition of Stalin Plaza in Prague. Photo by - Bros Around The Globe

Cultural Fusion

Skateboarding transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, making it a universal language that brings people together. When you visit a city plaza and engage with the locals and skaters, you'll experience a unique blend of cultures and backgrounds. Skating can provide a deeper understanding of the local community's history, traditions, and even contemporary art. It's not uncommon to witness skateboarders incorporating cultural heritage elements into their tricks, fashion, or style, creating a beautiful fusion of skateboarding and local identity. This cultural exchange adds an extra layer of richness to your travel experience.

The ledges of Jarmers Plans in Copenhagen, DK. Photo By - Ramberlersen

Unveiling Hidden Gems

While popular tourist attractions often steal the spotlight, city plazas provide a gateway to uncovering hidden gems within a destination. Skateboarders are often intimately familiar with their local surroundings, including lesser-known spots that showcase the city's true essence. By striking up conversations with local skateboarders in a plaza, you can tap into their extensive knowledge of the area, gaining access to secret skate spots, vibrant street art, independent shops, and even local cuisine. Embracing the insights of these insiders will allow you to go beyond the tourist traps and delve into the authentic soul of the city.

The now defunct Brooklyn Banks, will soon be revived by the City of New York. Photo by - Rasmus Zwickson

Inspiring Creativity and Growth

The Brooklyn Banks, Love Park, LA Courthouse, MACBA, Plaza De Colón, Southbank, Stalin Square, the list goes on. City plazas have long been catalysts for creativity, serving as a canvas for self-expression and pushing the boundaries of progression. Being surrounded by local skateboarders in such an environment will undoubtedly ignite your own style and creative spirit. Whether you're a seasoned skateboarder or a curious traveller, witnessing the tricks, styles, and innovations of local skaters can inspire new perspectives and encourage personal growth. The energy and dedication displayed by these individuals will leave an indelible mark on your own skateboarding journey, whether as a participant or an observer.

The plaza outside the Kulturforum museum in Berlin, built just like a skatepark. Photo By - Andreas Praefcke

When exploring a new country, remember to include a city plaza on your itinerary to connect with local skateboarders. And when you can’t find a skatepark, a city plaza is most certainly your best bet to tap into the local skate scene. From the dynamic skateboarding environment to the vibrant community, cultural fusion, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, these plazas offer a unique and enriching experience. Embrace the stoke, immerse yourself in the skateboarding world, and witness firsthand how the city plaza becomes the ultimate meeting point for skateboarders while traveling.

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By Nick DeRiso

How Troubl3 Keeps Making Trouble with Skateboards

June 29 2022 - Interview with Troubl3  “I always have been a troublemaker”. If Andrew, 41, had to pitch his idea, this could be a good punchline. It’s one of those cases where a business’s name is not just marketing, but a character’s extension. "So, Troubl3 is giving the middle finger to a lot of skate shops that do not support local people." Andrew (Owner Troubl3)   VISIT WEBSITE TROUBL3 is a Canadian skateboard shop based in Otawa. It was born in 2018 from the desire to go against the flow. “Skateboarding industry has become a mass production machine. Everything comes from China or Mexico, where people are not paid right. I buy something for one hundred dollars that really costs ten dollars”, he claims. “Then I thought: if I’m going to be a troublemaker, I might do something different. If I’m making a board it’s got to be unique like any skater is. I’m going to make one by one; it’s going to be tougher, it’s going to last more, every single board is going to be different. When you buy, it’s not just a board, it’s a piece of art and an experience”, he adds. This is something “one hundred percent customized”, from size, shape, wheels base, and a “seven veneer deck”. He proudly details: “Each veneer that goes into each deck is hand picked.” He buys local (wood from Quebec, for instance) in small batches, presses, shapes and hand paints the decks himself also, when he can, he promotes local artists to draw on the skateboards. “So, Troubl3 is giving the middle finger to a lot of skate shops that do not support local people who make stuff. They say they are local, but do not buy local”, Andrew reenforces, protesting against the rules of the game. “I always compare skateboards with pizza. I love pizza: a large one costs 50 bucks, the same you pay for a skateboard sometimes. Those skateboards are made overseas, they cost nothing to make, the price of pizza is gone to double, but the price of skateboards stayed the same for 30 years." “I evoke Paul Schmitt’s case all the time: a big name in this industry who shifted his business from California to Tijuana because people want to keep the price of a skateboard at 50 of 60 dollars for eternity. So, to keep his business going and pay his people, he had to move”, Andrew says.   He likes to be different. “Being marginalized is something good in skateboarding”. Although he admits the way he runs business is not sustainable: “The breakeven would be making 250 skateboards a month. Right now, I have had a month when I made four or five, others one or two.” It doesn’t matter. He believes this is the way. And he gives a discount if people really ride them and not just hang his skateboards on the wall. Authenticity is his brand, like the style he prefers for riders: “I like to see the most unorthodox skater. Do you do treflips? Fantastic, so can any other kid. I don’t care, throw your board against the wall, flip it on your head, do a back flip, do something I want to see. It’s different, do skateboarding and not do what others do.” “There’s a kid in Indonesia I started to follow who's skateboarding reminds me of a young Christian Hosoi. When I see the kid skate I can recognize Christian Hosoi’s influence. Can you recognize the inventors of other tricks you see people do at the park?”, he asks. Andrew sponsors five “troublemakers”: Eric Martin (Ontario), Dustin Lawrence (Ontario), Connor Callan aka Meat Feet (Arizona), Luis Uribe (Texas), Shinichi Nichiyama (Japan). He enjoys watching them and supports them the way he can. About his local skateparks, Andrew recommends: Bob MacQuarrie skatepark in Otawa Joel Gauthier skatepark in Rockland Local bus stop where where it's super smooth and is perfect for slappies, now that people stopped using busses, due to Covid, it's always empty and available.

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São Pedro do Sul skatepark tour in Portugal

Park nr 36 on our mission to skate every skatepark in Portugal is São Pedro do Sul Skatepark near Viseu.First of all I would like to say thanks to Wasteland skateparks and Gochill for supporting our latest roadtrip on our mission to film/skate every skatepark in Portugal. This time we decided to head up north and visit six skateparks build by the Portuguese builders Wasteland skateparks. Our first stop? São Pedro do Sul, a charming municipality nestled in the Central Portuguese district of Viseu, boasting a population of 5,728 inhabitants. Stretching across 14 picturesque parishes within an expansive 350 km² area, São Pedro do Sul is a part of the enchanting territory known as Montanhas Mágicas. While the region is renowned for its therapeutic thermal baths, it holds another treasure—a skatepark waiting to be explored. The skatepark in São Pedro do Sul is also definitely worth a visit. It's a fun park to cruise around and learn some new tricks. The mellow snake run provides different heights, so basically it's the perfect training ground to unlock new transition tricks that you've got on your bucket list of tricks. Looking for a place to stay check out the Pousadas de Juventude de Portugal in São Pedro do Sul. We really enjoyed our stay here and definitely recommend this pousada. The hotel is located in the middle of the historic center and everything is walking distance. Too bad we only stayed one night, because we could definitely chill here for a couple of days.

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Exploring the Thriving Scene and Best Skateparks of San Francisco

Skateboarding in San Francisco: Exploring the Thriving Scene and Best Skateparks Nestled amid the hills, neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks of San Francisco is a vibrant and dynamic skateboarding scene. From the bustling streets of downtown to the tranquil parks overlooking the bay, the city offers endless opportunities for riders to explore, express themselves, and push the boundaries of their craft. San Francisco's unique topography, with its steep hills, winding streets, and iconic architecture, provides an exciting playground for skateboarders of all levels. Whether it's weaving through traffic in the Financial District, navigating the twists and turns of Lombard Street, or carving down the slopes of Twin Peaks, skaters are constantly inspired by the city's diverse landscapes. But beyond the streets, San Francisco boasts an impressive array of skateparks that cater to riders seeking more structured environments to hone their skills. Here are some of the best skateparks the city has to offerSOMA West SkateparkNestled in the vibrant neighborhood of SoMa (South of Market) in San Francisco lies a hidden gem cherished by skateboarders: the SoMa West Skatepark. This iconic spot, located under a bridge overpass, isn't just a place to ride, but a symbol of the city's rich skateboarding culture and the resilience of its community. Crocker Amazon SkateparkTucked away in the Excelsior District, Crocker Amazon Skatepark offers a diverse range of obstacles, including a large bowl, street course, and flow section. With its spacious layout and smooth concrete surfaces, it's a favorite among skaters of all ages. Potrero Del Sol SkateparkPotrero Skatepark, a testament to the dynamic fusion of urban culture and architectural innovation, stands proudly as a vibrant oasis within the bustling cityscape. Crafted by the visionary artisans of Dreamland skateparks, this concrete playground embodies the essence of skateboarding ethos – freedom, creativity, and community. Potrero skatepark, nestled within the heart of Potrero del Sol Park, is a concrete park featuring a large bowl and an open-bowl with built in street elements. Waller Street DIY SkateparkFor those craving a more grassroots experience, Waller Street DIY Skatepark offers a raw and rugged setting where skaters have transformed an abandoned lot into a thriving community space. With its handmade ramps and obstacles, it's a testament to the DIY ethos of skateboarding culture. Treasure Island SkateparkLocated on the former naval base of Treasure Island, this expansive skatepark boasts stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and the Bay Bridge. With its wide variety of features and spacious layout, it's a popular destination for riders from across the city.United Nations skate plazaThe revitalization of the 150,000-square-foot United Nations Plaza in San Francisco in 2023 marked a significant turning point for this area, with a multimillion-dollar renovation project aimed at breathing new life into the space. An extensive facelift introduced a range of amenities, including fitness equipment, ping-pong tables, and cornhole, alongside the centrepiece addition of a brand-new skate park. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious newcomer, San Francisco offers something for every skateboarder. From the thrill of riding the city's iconic streets to the camaraderie of its vibrant skatepark community, the City by the Bay is a mecca for riders seeking adventure, inspiration, and endless possibilities.Visit skatepark map.

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Exploring the Vibrant History of Linda Vista Skatepark in San Diego

Welcome to Linda Vista Skatepark, a cultural landmark buzzing with energy.Nestled within the sun-soaked streets of San Diego lies a 34000 foot haven for skateboarders—a place where creativity, friendship, and adrenaline intertwine to form the beating heart of the local skate scene. Join us as we delve into the captivating tale of this iconic destination, from its humble beginnings to its status as a cornerstone of the San Diego skateboarding community. Construction and InceptionAs the landscape of skateboarding has evolved, so too has Linda Vista Skatepark. In 2013, a group of concerned citizens began a signature campaign to build a skateboard park in the community and this marked the beginning of the Friends of the Linda Vista Skateboard Park. With the help of skaters, skateboard professionals, and the community the design of the park was approved. The construction began August 2016 with the grand opening on January 16, 2018. The park underwent a major renovation, adding new features and amenities to accommodate the ever-changing needs of the skating community. The renovation of the park was done by Site Design Group and California skateparks. Today, Linda Vista boasts a diverse array of obstacles and terrain, from classic street elements to expansive bowls and transitions, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy.The Skateparkproject, founded by professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, provided about $40,000 in “seed money” to get the project off the ground. Most of the funding came from a $4.6-million grant the state Department of Housing and Community Development awarded the city in 2014 to construct skateparks in Linda Vista and City Heights. A Hub of ActivityFrom the moment its gates swung open, Linda Vista Skatepark quickly established itself as a hub of activity and creativity. Skaters from all walks of life flocked to its ramps, bowls, and ledges, eager to test their skills and connect with fellow riders. What emerged was a vibrant community united by a shared passion for skateboarding—a community that continues to thrive to this day. Events and CelebrationsOver the years, Linda Vista Skatepark has played host to a myriad of events and gatherings that showcase the best of San Diego's skate culture. From amateur contests and demos to film premieres and art installations, the park buzzes with activity year-round. Notable skaters and industry insiders often grace its ramps, lending their support and inspiration to the next generation of riders.Linda Vista CommunityAt its core, Linda Vista Skatepark is more than just a place to skate—it's a tight-knit community bonded by a love for the sport. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a first-time rider, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere and a supportive network of fellow skaters eager to cheer you on and share their passion. From impromptu jam sessions to casual hangouts, the park buzzes with a sense of camaraderie that's truly infectious.As we reflect on the storied history of Linda Vista Skatepark, one thing becomes abundantly clear: its impact extends far beyond its concrete confines. Linda Vista has been a home away from home—a place to push boundaries, forge friendships, and find solace in the simple joy of riding. As the sun sets on another day of shredding, we can't help but feel grateful for the vibrant community that calls Linda Vista Skatepark home. Here's to many more years of laughter, learning, and endless stoke.Visit Linda Vista skatepark

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Find Skateparks Near Me: searching for skateparks has never been easier

Are you tired of scouring the internet trying to find the perfect skatepark near you? Searching for new spots to shred with your friends? Look no further! At Trucks and Fins, we've revolutionized the way skaters find their next epic session. With our innovative skatepark map, aptly named Trucks and Fins, it's easier than ever to locate the nearest skateparks and pumptracks to you. Gone are the days of endless Google searches and dead-end leads. Our website boasts a comprehensive database of over 20,000 parks waiting to be explored, ensuring that no matter where you are, adventure is just around the corner. But Trucks and Fins isn't just your run-of-the-mill map. It's a dynamic platform designed by skaters, for skaters. Our user-friendly interface allows you to quickly and effortlessly pinpoint the best spots to catch some air and grind to your heart's content. Simply click on "my location" icon, and within seconds, you'll be presented with a plethora of options to choose from. But wait, there's more! We understand that skateboarding is about more than just finding a place to ride—it's about finding your tribe and embracing the spirit of adventure. That's why Trucks and Fins goes beyond mere location listings. Our platform allows users to add photos, reviews, and even new skateparks to the map, fostering a vibrant community of skaters eager to share their passion and discoveries with others. And let's not forget about the importance of finding your "Animal Chin." Whether it's the thrill of conquering a new trick, the joy of skating with your crew, or the satisfaction of discovering that dream terrain, Trucks and Fins has all the ingredients to fuel your stoke. With our extensive collection of the best skate destinations in one place, you'll never be short of inspiration or excitement. So why wait? Embark on your next skatepark adventure today with Trucks and Fins. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, our map of stoke is sure to ignite your passion for skateboarding and unleash your inner shredder. Don't let the opportunity pass you by—join the Trucks and Fins community and let the skatepark hunting begin!Visit skatepark map

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Carving Through Time: The History of Mount Hawke Skatepark

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Cornwall, England, Mount Hawke Skatepark stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of skateboarding culture. From its humble beginnings as a DIY skate spot to its evolution into a world-class facility, Mount Hawke has played a pivotal role in shaping the local skate scene and leaving an indelible mark on the global skateboarding community. The Early Years: From DIY to Destination In the late 1980s, a group of dedicated skateboarders in Cornwall sought to create a space where they could ride, connect, and express themselves freely. Armed with little more than passion and determination, they transformed an abandoned swimming pool into a makeshift skate spot, laying the foundation for what would become Mount Hawke Skatepark. Community Spirit and Innovation As word of the DIY skate spot spread, skaters from across Cornwall flocked to Mount Hawke, drawn by its unique terrain and welcoming atmosphere. Inspired by the creativity and camaraderie of the local skate scene, the founders of Mount Hawke began to expand and improve the facility, adding new obstacles and features to accommodate the growing demand. The Rise of Mount Hawke Skatepark By the early 2000s, Mount Hawke had evolved into a full-fledged skatepark, complete with a diverse array of ramps, bowls, and street obstacles. Its reputation as a premier skateboarding destination continued to grow, attracting riders from across the UK and beyond who were eager to test their skills on its legendary terrain. A Hub for Progression and Community Mount Hawke Skatepark quickly became more than just a place to skate—it became a hub for progression, creativity, and community. Today Mount Hawke is Cornwall's largest indoor skatepark, set in a 24000 square ft (2229 square meters), purpose built warehouse, with everything you could ever want to skate under one roof. The biggest part of the current skatepark was designed and built by FourOneFour skateparks in 2016. In 2017 the bowl was installed after being donated by Ramp City skatepark. An outdoor concrete plaza was built by Maverick skateparks in 2020. Riders of all ages and skill levels came together to push the boundaries of what was possible on a skateboard, sharing tricks, tips, and stories as they honed their craft. The Legacy Continues Today, Mount Hawke Skatepark remains a beloved fixture of the Cornish skate scene, beloved not only for its world-class facilities but also for the sense of belonging and camaraderie it fosters. From hosting local contests and events to providing support for up-and-coming riders, Mount Hawke continues to play an integral role in shaping the future of skateboarding in Cornwall and beyond. Conclusion As we reflect on the history of Mount Hawke Skatepark, we are reminded of the power of passion, creativity, and community to transform a simple idea into something truly extraordinary. From its humble origins as a DIY skate spot to its status as a world-class facility, Mount Hawke stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of skateboarding and the boundless possibilities that arise when people come together in pursuit of their passions.Visit Mount Hawke Skatepark on skate map.

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Trucks and Fins is a huge present to the whole skate community - not just for the skating people, but also for shops, builders and schools. Super easy to use and can't believe how complete it is.

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Pascal Lieleg

Trucks and Fins is a great resource for checking on local spots if you are traveling or planning a road trip! A one stop resource that is constantly updated with the newest projects as well as those bucket list locations worldwide. The intuitive UI features gps coordinates as well as useful information about shops nearby.

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Trucks and Fins provide a great service. Its quick and easy to use and has such a vast amount of parks included, not just in the UK but worldwide. CANVAS Spaces support the cause and fully back what they are doing.

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Our skate community has been crying out for a comprehensive guide to global skate spots. Trucks and Fins should be commended on their dedication to mapping the world's STOKE!

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Trucks and Fins brings all of the world's skateparks to you all in one convenient place through their endless search for parks around the world. They have park locations, details, images, and more to help plan your next skate quest wherever that may take you. We appreciate their dedication and passion for skateboarding and the amazing gifts that skateparks and skate spots are.

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A big part of skateboarding is about finding Animal Chin - your spirit animal, or in other words: whatever gets you stoked. Could be the right people to roll with, or that special dream terrain. Trucks and Fins has all the best skate destinations in one place; a map of stoke in your hands.

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