Table of Contents
In a world saturated with flashy brands and over-the-top marketing, humble skateboards are carving out a unique space. They represent a return to skateboarding's roots, prioritizing quality, community, and a genuine love for the ride over empty trends. But what exactly makes these boards different? Are they simply a nostalgic throwback, or do they offer something truly innovative to the modern skater?
1. The Rise of Humble Skateboards: A New Period in Skateboarding
The Anti-Establishment Attitude
For years, skateboarding was dominated by a few major brands, pushing the same styles and marketing tactics. But lately, there's been a shift. Skaters are looking for something more authentic, something that reflects their individual style and values. That's where humble skateboards come in. These aren't the boards you see plastered with corporate logos in every skate park. They're often crafted by small, independent companies with a passion for the sport and a dedication to quality.
Return to Core Values
The rise of humble skateboards signals a return to the core values of skateboarding: creativity, individuality, and community. It's about more than just landing tricks; it's about expressing yourself and connecting with others who share your passion. These smaller brands often focus on building relationships with local skate shops and sponsoring grassroots events, fostering a sense of community that's often missing in the mainstream skateboarding world. Also, they are doing it with style and passion.
Some of the values are:
- Creativity
- Individuality
- Community
A Response to Mass Production
In a world of mass production, humble skateboards offer a refreshing alternative. Many of these companies prioritize sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing practices, creating boards that are not only high-performing but also environmentally responsible. This resonates with a growing number of skaters who are concerned about the impact of their purchases on the planet. They're looking for boards that are built to last, both in terms of durability and environmental footprint.
2. What Makes Humble Skateboards Stand Out? Design, Materials, and Performance
Beyond the anti-establishment vibe, humble skateboards distinguish themselves through a focus on quality and performance. These aren't mass-produced decks stamped out in a factory; they're often crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using premium materials and innovative designs.
One thing you'll notice right away is the wood. Many humble skateboard brands use high-quality maple, often sourced from sustainable forests. This results in a deck that's not only strong and durable but also has excellent pop and responsiveness. They’re thinking about the kind of ride that will make you want to keep going.
Feature | Humble Skateboards | Mass-Produced Boards |
|---|---|---|
Wood Quality | Premium Maple (often sustainable) | Varying Quality (often lower grade) |
Construction | Handcrafted, meticulous attention to detail | Mass-produced, automated processes |
Design | Unique, often innovative shapes | Standardized, generic shapes |
But it's not just about the wood. Humble skateboard companies often experiment with different concave shapes and deck sizes to create boards that cater to a variety of skating styles. Whether you're into street skating, vert, or cruising, you can find a humble board that's perfectly suited to your needs.
And let's not forget the graphics. While some humble skateboards feature minimalist designs, others showcase artwork from local artists, adding another layer of individuality and creativity to the boards. It's a way to support the community and express yourself at the same time.
3. Humble Skateboards and the Community: Supporting Local Scenes and Initiatives
Humble skateboards often play a significant role in supporting local skateboarding scenes and initiatives. Unlike large corporations that focus on global marketing campaigns, these smaller brands tend to invest in their communities, sponsoring local skate contests, supporting skate parks, and collaborating with local artists and businesses. This creates a virtuous cycle, where the brand benefits from the support of the community, and the community benefits from the brand's investment.
For example, many humble skateboard companies will donate a portion of their sales to local skate park projects, helping to build and maintain spaces for skaters to practice and connect. They might also sponsor local skate teams, providing them with boards and gear, and helping them to travel to competitions. This kind of support is crucial for the growth and development of skateboarding at the grassroots level.
Some benefits from supporting local communities:
- Creates a sense of belonging and shared purpose
- Encourages creativity and collaboration
- Provides opportunities for young skaters to develop their skills
Moreover, humble skateboards often collaborate with local artists and designers, featuring their artwork on decks and apparel. This not only adds a unique aesthetic to the boards but also provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talent. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved.
In addition to supporting local scenes, humble skateboards are also often involved in broader social and environmental initiatives. Many of these companies prioritize sustainable manufacturing practices, using eco-friendly materials and minimizing their environmental impact. They might also partner with non-profit organizations to support causes such as youth development or environmental conservation.
By supporting humble skateboards, skaters are not just buying a board; they're investing in a community, supporting local artists, and contributing to a more sustainable future. It's a way to align your values with your passion and make a positive impact on the world.
4. Choosing the Right Humble Skateboard: A Guide for Beginners to Advanced Skaters
Selecting the right humble skateboard can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. But don't worry, it's all about finding the board that best suits your skill level, riding style, and personal preferences. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, there's a humble skateboard out there that's perfect for you.
Finding Your Perfect Fit
For beginners, a good starting point is a standard-sized deck (around 8 inches wide) with a mellow concave. This will provide a stable and forgiving platform for learning the basics. Look for a board made from high-quality maple, as this will ensure durability and pop. Complete skateboards are a great option for beginners, as they come with all the necessary components pre-assembled.
As you progress, you can start experimenting with different deck sizes and concaves to find what feels best for your riding style. Street skaters often prefer narrower decks (7.75 to 8.25 inches) for easier flip tricks, while vert skaters may opt for wider decks (8.25 inches and up) for more stability. Concave refers to the curvature of the deck, and it affects the board's responsiveness and flick.
Understanding Components
Beyond the deck, the other components of your skateboard also play a crucial role in its performance. Trucks are the metal axles that attach the wheels to the deck, and they affect the board's turning and stability. Wheels come in various sizes and hardnesses, and the right choice depends on the type of terrain you'll be skating. Bearings allow the wheels to spin smoothly, and high-quality bearings can make a noticeable difference in your speed and roll.
Advanced skaters often prefer to build their own custom skateboards, selecting each component individually to create a board that's perfectly adapted to their needs. This allows for maximum control over the board's performance and feel. Don't be afraid to experiment with different setups to find what works best for you.
Below is a table of common skateboard components:
Component | Description | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
Deck | The wooden platform you stand on. | Width, length, concave, material (maple is best) |
Trucks | Metal axles that attach wheels to the deck. | Width (should match deck), height (affects stability) |
Wheels | Rollers that allow you to move. | Diameter (size), durometer (hardness), shape |
Bearings | Allow wheels to spin smoothly. | ABEC rating (higher is generally better) |
Griptape | Abrasive surface that provides traction. | Texture (grip level), design |
The Future of Humble Skateboards
The story of humble skateboards is still being written, but their commitment to quality, community, and a genuine love for skateboarding suggests a bright future. As more skaters seek alternatives to the mass-produced boards of major corporations, humble brands like these are ready to play an increasingly important role in shaping the skateboarding landscape. By supporting local scenes, prioritizing sustainable materials, and staying true to their roots, humble skateboards are not just building boards; they're building a movement.