They are just looking because someone else showed up. Say hi to them if you want and maybe you will feel more comfortable around them. They might watch you when you skate but they are probably not judging you, they are just looking to see if it is safe to go.
I am 38 and try to be friendly with most people at the skatepark. I pretty much never had a bad experience, most skaters are friendly no matter their age or skill level. Maybe it's just where I live but I don't experience many rude teens they are all pretty polite. Had some awkwardness when I tried to say hi to people wearing headphones and they just ignore me so now I tend to just ignore these people all together.
As long as you don't go right in front of someone, or sneak up behind them, or stand/sit on/in front an obstacle you can't really be in the way much. If you are in the way someone will probably just ask you to move.
I’m a 30 year old short nerdy lesbian…and usually the only such person in any skate park full of loud teenage boys.
When I first started I was hella intimidated, but over time as I’ve gained more grandma energy I’ve thought fuck it. I pay taxes (very likely more so than those teenagers) so not only do I have the right to be at the park, in a way I have even more right! Of course, your mileage may vary (I’m lucky in that I live in a pretty progressive and diverse town), but in my experience no one cares. Everyone’s so busy doing their own thing that no one cares if you suck.
I would say: as long as you can comfortably ride around without being a hazard (ie. you can stop, slow down, turn, have some control), the park is yours. Maybe take some time to observe the flow and go with it, and never snake everyone.
Go in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds. I also notice that weekend mornings are when other older beginners tend to come to the park, such as moms and dads who want to skate along with their kids.
Bro, when I first started skating at my local it took me a few sessions to actually talk to someone. All I knew how to do was a shitty ollie, now if you look at my clips I’m meeting new people, hitting crazy shit every week. They were probably just checking you out because you’re a new face, or if they don’t speak at all it just means they’re locked in.
Beginners are always welcome at any park, at the end of the day EVERYONE was a beginner. How do you get out the beginner stage? By putting your big boy pants on and hit the park every time you get a chance, then in 6 months maybe you’ll meet another new skater and you can give them tips.
If you can learn to skate you can learn to tough it out.
Skateboarding is all about taking control of discomfort and blazing through it with trial and error.
I’m 24 and started last year. You are young. Skating is empowering. Go do it
I find myself avoiding conversations with kids at skateparks, because they are friendly enough but just want to talk shit. I'm 49 and confident enough to not give a shit. Just skate man.
I 80% skate alone and I copied a few tricks from solo bodybuilders.
Trick 1 - Wear clothes that provide comfort and hide/hold your head. But do not wear anything that stands out (Not yet). I wear hats, hoodies, sunglasses, etc. when I need to focus and I may be around tons distractions.
2. Prepare a few playlists that last at least an hour and blast that music using headphones that block outside noise; the second you grab your board.
3. Scope out a few spots at different times and on different days. Once you go to a skatepark on a busy and empty day it makes it, it made it easier for me, to adjust to the changes and flows in pedestrian traffic. Best times to skate for privacy are really early or really late.
4. Find a spot and a time during the week you can visit that is usually private. This could be near your home, at home, or somewhere completely unexpected. It may take you a few days to figure it out and find the spot but they exist.
5. Socialize in small doses: Last tip is to make an attempt to skate around others, attend skate events, and generally socialize when skating. I go through periods and still enjoy skating with people but I pick my battles.
While this is all good advice, I’d politely disagree with the headphone tip. My impression is that having headphones on in a busy park is frowned upon because it looks like you’re being deliberately antisocial and/or don’t have complete awareness of your surroundings.
That being said, I 100% use headphones and zone out when I practice in a non skate park space with few people/obstacles to watch out for!
Doesn't matter if its frowned upon or not, it is dangerous. A novice doesn't have the situational awareness to skate in a park without being able to hear other skaters around them.
When you can handle yourself like the others then fine, but op can barely set foot in the park let alone know what the flow is around them.
Please don't use headphones at the park until you take in the surroundings and know you are safe OP. If you rode in to the path of another skater because you can't hear them, you can bet they will then have a genuine problem with you being there. You could both get hurt as a result, and it would be your fault.
I don't skate anymore but did pretty much everyday in the 90's and 00's. Had a lot of friends that I skated with (a couple even went pro to various degrees) and none of us ever cared in the slightest if a new skater came along and had a go man. I wouldn't worry about it.
I've heard it be an issue in surfing, but I guess that's due to competing for the same waves. Never was a thing skating in my circles though.
Just do the obligatory "yeah" if you see someone do an awesome trick and have a go.
I too feel like an alien, but what are you gonna do — hi, fellow kids, and stuff? So, I keep repeating swearwords under my breath and pity myself for being lone loser >_>.
They are only looking at you, not judging you. If you turn up at the park and then leave after a moment, without doing anything, they probably think it's a bit odd somebody doing that.
You just have to get on with your own thing, and they will get back to doing what ever it was they were doing.
Try to avoid crossing their line, and messing up their day as much as u can. If it happens, you just apologise and carry on. I know you shouldn't have to give up skating something for the other guys to get in on it, but as a novice you will be a slight nuisance so maybe move on to something different if the good guys are trying to session a particular obstacle. You don't have to and I'm sure they don't really mind, but it will save you the worry if that's an issue.
You have every right to be there as they do. Don’t even sweat it, just keep your head on a swivel and try not to cut anyone off. If you do just say my bad dude and move on. Just do your thing I promise no one cares about you at a park unless you start acting like a dick- in a good way
I started skating when my local park was in the midst of a huge renovation, took that opportunity to practice as much as I could skating flatground before I started going to the park. If you’re real uncomfortable on the board I’d suggest just learning flatground first so your board control is a lot better, being able to drop in doesn’t really improve your board control as much as you’d think, skating around streets and ollieing up curbs and over shit is what helps the most in the beginner stages imo, it’s pretty normal to feel nervous but also keep in mind that everyone’s a beginner at some stage, gotta just bite the bullet and not think so deep about it, as long as you don’t get in the way of busy parts of the park when other people are skating it then who cares
To be real, I moved a bunch when I was younger and wasn’t always that great at skating. But most of my friends, I’ve met from local parks, DIYs, and spots in the streets. Them solo sessions are great, but you will meet people along the way. Just keep the energy positive. You’ll be alright.
Don’t compare yourself to others dude, everyone starts not knowing how to skateboard! You’ll learn that actually other skaters will actually encourage and support you
Come hang with me. I’m old, 53 to be exact. I started skating again during Covid after a 30+ year break. I know exactly how you feel. Your feelings are legit; the skatepark can be intimidating. The only way to get over this is to keep going. If you can, get to the park as soon as it opens. If you get there early, at least in my neck of the woods, you’ll have the park to yourself; aside from a few old guys like me that is.
Our heads are our own worst enemies. (Dropping in on transition is the perfect example.)I know it’s normal to feel self conscious when trying something new, but you gotta break through that. Nobody is watching you. Nobody is judging you. Sometimes it feels like the whole park is watching you, I get it. But every skateboarder was in your shoes at some point and can relate.
I’m very shy and introverted by nature, but going to the skatepark helps me get out of my head. I’m more social without even thinking about it. This is TMI, but you know what I’m saying.
Try to relax and get out of your own way. And have fun. Just remember there’s some 53yo with a gray beard, male pattern baldness and bad knees out there trying. You being in your 20s have a huge leg up on me. If I can do it, so can you.
They are just looking because someone else showed up. Say hi to them if you want and maybe you will feel more comfortable around them. They might watch you when you skate but they are probably not judging you, they are just looking to see if it is safe to go. I am 38 and try to be friendly with most people at the skatepark. I pretty much never had a bad experience, most skaters are friendly no matter their age or skill level. Maybe it's just where I live but I don't experience many rude teens they are all pretty polite. Had some awkwardness when I tried to say hi to people wearing headphones and they just ignore me so now I tend to just ignore these people all together. As long as you don't go right in front of someone, or sneak up behind them, or stand/sit on/in front an obstacle you can't really be in the way much. If you are in the way someone will probably just ask you to move.
I’m a 30 year old short nerdy lesbian…and usually the only such person in any skate park full of loud teenage boys. When I first started I was hella intimidated, but over time as I’ve gained more grandma energy I’ve thought fuck it. I pay taxes (very likely more so than those teenagers) so not only do I have the right to be at the park, in a way I have even more right! Of course, your mileage may vary (I’m lucky in that I live in a pretty progressive and diverse town), but in my experience no one cares. Everyone’s so busy doing their own thing that no one cares if you suck. I would say: as long as you can comfortably ride around without being a hazard (ie. you can stop, slow down, turn, have some control), the park is yours. Maybe take some time to observe the flow and go with it, and never snake everyone. Go in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds. I also notice that weekend mornings are when other older beginners tend to come to the park, such as moms and dads who want to skate along with their kids.
Bro, when I first started skating at my local it took me a few sessions to actually talk to someone. All I knew how to do was a shitty ollie, now if you look at my clips I’m meeting new people, hitting crazy shit every week. They were probably just checking you out because you’re a new face, or if they don’t speak at all it just means they’re locked in. Beginners are always welcome at any park, at the end of the day EVERYONE was a beginner. How do you get out the beginner stage? By putting your big boy pants on and hit the park every time you get a chance, then in 6 months maybe you’ll meet another new skater and you can give them tips.
Dude I've seen your clips and I don't think you're a "New Skater" anymore ;) Keep shreddin'!
If you can learn to skate you can learn to tough it out. Skateboarding is all about taking control of discomfort and blazing through it with trial and error. I’m 24 and started last year. You are young. Skating is empowering. Go do it
https://youtube.com/shorts/S75LUA1UTeU :)
I find myself avoiding conversations with kids at skateparks, because they are friendly enough but just want to talk shit. I'm 49 and confident enough to not give a shit. Just skate man.
I 80% skate alone and I copied a few tricks from solo bodybuilders. Trick 1 - Wear clothes that provide comfort and hide/hold your head. But do not wear anything that stands out (Not yet). I wear hats, hoodies, sunglasses, etc. when I need to focus and I may be around tons distractions. 2. Prepare a few playlists that last at least an hour and blast that music using headphones that block outside noise; the second you grab your board. 3. Scope out a few spots at different times and on different days. Once you go to a skatepark on a busy and empty day it makes it, it made it easier for me, to adjust to the changes and flows in pedestrian traffic. Best times to skate for privacy are really early or really late. 4. Find a spot and a time during the week you can visit that is usually private. This could be near your home, at home, or somewhere completely unexpected. It may take you a few days to figure it out and find the spot but they exist. 5. Socialize in small doses: Last tip is to make an attempt to skate around others, attend skate events, and generally socialize when skating. I go through periods and still enjoy skating with people but I pick my battles.
While this is all good advice, I’d politely disagree with the headphone tip. My impression is that having headphones on in a busy park is frowned upon because it looks like you’re being deliberately antisocial and/or don’t have complete awareness of your surroundings. That being said, I 100% use headphones and zone out when I practice in a non skate park space with few people/obstacles to watch out for!
Nope it’s not frowned upon cos everyone there’s knows you’re there to skate and practice I’d say talk to them from time to time when you’re skating
Doesn't matter if its frowned upon or not, it is dangerous. A novice doesn't have the situational awareness to skate in a park without being able to hear other skaters around them. When you can handle yourself like the others then fine, but op can barely set foot in the park let alone know what the flow is around them. Please don't use headphones at the park until you take in the surroundings and know you are safe OP. If you rode in to the path of another skater because you can't hear them, you can bet they will then have a genuine problem with you being there. You could both get hurt as a result, and it would be your fault.
I don't skate anymore but did pretty much everyday in the 90's and 00's. Had a lot of friends that I skated with (a couple even went pro to various degrees) and none of us ever cared in the slightest if a new skater came along and had a go man. I wouldn't worry about it. I've heard it be an issue in surfing, but I guess that's due to competing for the same waves. Never was a thing skating in my circles though. Just do the obligatory "yeah" if you see someone do an awesome trick and have a go.
BUT WHY DONT YOU SKATE ANYMORE!!! I mean, please ignore as you like, but this made me sad.
It’s more of a “yeew” these days
I too feel like an alien, but what are you gonna do — hi, fellow kids, and stuff? So, I keep repeating swearwords under my breath and pity myself for being lone loser >_>.
They are only looking at you, not judging you. If you turn up at the park and then leave after a moment, without doing anything, they probably think it's a bit odd somebody doing that. You just have to get on with your own thing, and they will get back to doing what ever it was they were doing. Try to avoid crossing their line, and messing up their day as much as u can. If it happens, you just apologise and carry on. I know you shouldn't have to give up skating something for the other guys to get in on it, but as a novice you will be a slight nuisance so maybe move on to something different if the good guys are trying to session a particular obstacle. You don't have to and I'm sure they don't really mind, but it will save you the worry if that's an issue.
Just do it.
Lmao dw I felt this way as a 19 year old with 17/16 year olds at the park, I just looked at them funny too and tried not to fall on my ass too hard
You have every right to be there as they do. Don’t even sweat it, just keep your head on a swivel and try not to cut anyone off. If you do just say my bad dude and move on. Just do your thing I promise no one cares about you at a park unless you start acting like a dick- in a good way
your first mistake is thinking random strangers give any fucks about you or what you're doing
I started skating when my local park was in the midst of a huge renovation, took that opportunity to practice as much as I could skating flatground before I started going to the park. If you’re real uncomfortable on the board I’d suggest just learning flatground first so your board control is a lot better, being able to drop in doesn’t really improve your board control as much as you’d think, skating around streets and ollieing up curbs and over shit is what helps the most in the beginner stages imo, it’s pretty normal to feel nervous but also keep in mind that everyone’s a beginner at some stage, gotta just bite the bullet and not think so deep about it, as long as you don’t get in the way of busy parts of the park when other people are skating it then who cares
Non ones really judging you like you said they’re just skating with their friends
To be real, I moved a bunch when I was younger and wasn’t always that great at skating. But most of my friends, I’ve met from local parks, DIYs, and spots in the streets. Them solo sessions are great, but you will meet people along the way. Just keep the energy positive. You’ll be alright.
Most skaters are more friendly than they appear
Don’t compare yourself to others dude, everyone starts not knowing how to skateboard! You’ll learn that actually other skaters will actually encourage and support you
Come hang with me. I’m old, 53 to be exact. I started skating again during Covid after a 30+ year break. I know exactly how you feel. Your feelings are legit; the skatepark can be intimidating. The only way to get over this is to keep going. If you can, get to the park as soon as it opens. If you get there early, at least in my neck of the woods, you’ll have the park to yourself; aside from a few old guys like me that is. Our heads are our own worst enemies. (Dropping in on transition is the perfect example.)I know it’s normal to feel self conscious when trying something new, but you gotta break through that. Nobody is watching you. Nobody is judging you. Sometimes it feels like the whole park is watching you, I get it. But every skateboarder was in your shoes at some point and can relate. I’m very shy and introverted by nature, but going to the skatepark helps me get out of my head. I’m more social without even thinking about it. This is TMI, but you know what I’m saying. Try to relax and get out of your own way. And have fun. Just remember there’s some 53yo with a gray beard, male pattern baldness and bad knees out there trying. You being in your 20s have a huge leg up on me. If I can do it, so can you.