Unpopular Opinion: 70s Skate Was Seriously Cool

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Grab your board and get ready to shred back in time! kizworld is diving into the radical world of 70s skate, exploring the culture, the gear, and the legends that made this era so iconic. Whether you're a seasoned skater or just curious about the roots of this beloved sport, get ready for a trip back to the days of sun-drenched asphalt and the birth of a movement.

The Rise of 70s Skate Culture

From Sidewalks to Empty Pools

Picture this: It's the 1970s, the sun is blazing, and a bunch of kids on boards are changing the game. See, back then, skateboarding wasn't the big deal it is now. It was like the little brother trying to keep up with surfing. But then something awesome happened. A long drought hit California, and guess what? Empty pools became the coolest skateparks ever! These weren't your ordinary pools – they had curves and slopes that were perfect for trying new tricks. It was like discovering a secret world just for skateboarding. This is where the legendary Z-Boys, like Tony Alva and Jay Adams, came in. They weren't afraid to push limits, inventing crazy moves that made everyone's jaws drop. They weren't just skating; they were dancing on their boards, making it an art form.

A New Wave of Innovation

Remember those clunky metal wheels from the old days? Yeah, those were gone! The 70s brought in polyurethane wheels, and let me tell you, it was like night and day. Suddenly, skating was smoother, faster, and way more fun. It's like trading in your tricycle for a rocket! This new tech meant skaters could go bigger, try riskier moves, and express themselves in ways nobody thought possible. Plus, skateboards themselves got a makeover. They were designed specifically for tricks and performance, not just cruising around. This opened up a whole new world of possibilities, and trust me, things were about to get wild! Read more about how to improve your balance.

The Birth of a Culture

The 70s weren't just about fancy tricks and gear; they were about creating a whole new vibe – a culture that was all about freedom, creativity, and pushing boundaries. Skaters had their own style, their own language, and their own way of looking at the world. It was like a secret society, but instead of secret handshakes, they had kickflips and ollies. This rebellious spirit drew in artists, musicians, and anyone who felt like they didn't quite fit in. Check out our post on the iconic skater, Tony Hawk. Skateboarding wasn't just a hobby; it was a way of life, a form of self-expression, and a community where everyone was welcome. It was a revolution on four wheels, and it was just getting started.

Iconic 70s Skate Equipment

Okay, so you're hearing about 70s skate and how awesome it was, right? Well, a big part of that awesomeness was the gear. It wasn't just about looking cool (though that was a bonus!), it was about how this new gear changed the whole game. Imagine going from a clunky old skateboard to something sleek and fast – that's what it was like!

Wheels of Revolution

First up, let's talk wheels. Before the 70s, skateboards had these metal wheels that were like trying to ride on square blocks – bumpy and slow! But then came polyurethane wheels, and it was a total game-changer. Suddenly, skating was smooth, fast, and so much more fun. It's like the difference between riding a bike with flat tires and one with perfectly pumped-up ones! These new wheels gripped the pavement better, making it easier to control your board and try new tricks. Plus, they absorbed shocks, so landing jumps didn't rattle your teeth loose! Trust me, once you went polyurethane, there was no going back. Check out this post about how to improve your balance on your board.

Decks Built for Daring

Now, let's talk about the boards themselves. In the 70s, skateboards got a serious upgrade. They weren't just planks of wood anymore; they were designed specifically for doing tricks and riding aggressively. They were wider, with a kicktail at the back (that's the curved-up part), which made it easier to ollie (pop the board up). The trucks (the metal parts that hold the wheels) were also improved, giving skaters more control and stability. Suddenly, skaters could go higher, faster, and try things they'd only dreamed of before. It was like the difference between a toy car and a real race car – these boards were built for action! And don't forget to protect your head! Find out more about the best skateboarding helmets and pads.

70s Skate Style and Fashion

Alright, so we've talked about the sick moves and the rad gear, but let's get to the good stuff – the style! 70s skate fashion wasn't just about looking cool (though they definitely did!), it was about expressing that rebellious, free-spirited attitude that defined the era. It was all about ditching the rulebook and creating a look that screamed, "We do things our own way!".

Imagine this: sun-bleached hair, cut-off jeans with frayed edges, and a faded band T-shirt. Maybe you've got a pair of Vans slip-ons, those iconic checkered shoes that were like the official footwear of skateboarding. Or maybe you're rocking some Converse Chuck Taylors, another classic choice. And don't forget the tube socks – pulled up high, of course! It was a look that was effortless, comfortable, and totally cool. You wanted to look like you just rolled out of bed ready to shred, and maybe you did!.

Beyond the Board

But 70s skate style wasn't just about what you wore while skating; it seeped into everyday life. It was about embracing a more relaxed, laid-back vibe. Think about those iconic photos of skaters hanging out in empty pools or cruising down the boardwalk. They weren't trying too hard; they were just being themselves. And that's what made it so cool – it was authentic and real. It's no wonder that 70s skate style is still so influential today; it's timeless! Want to learn more about skateboarding in general? Check out our post on skateboarding.

The Lasting Impact of 70s Skateboarding

The 70s weren't just a fad for skateboarding; they were like that awesome teacher who changes how you see the world! It changed everything! Before the 70s, skateboarding was kinda like that kid trying to copy his cooler older brother (surfing!). But then the 70s hit, and skateboarding found its own groove. Think about it: the Z-Boys were like the rock stars of skateboarding, inventing tricks in empty pools that blew everyone's minds. Suddenly, everyone wanted to skate! Check out our post on skate-tony-hawk. And those polyurethane wheels? They were like magic carpets for your feet, making skating smoother and faster than ever before. But here's the thing: the 70s didn't just give us cool tricks and gear; they gave us a whole new attitude. Skateboarding became about freedom, creativity, and doing things your own way. It was like a secret language that only skaters understood. And guess what? That spirit is still alive and well today. Every time you see a skater busting a move, remember, they're part of a legacy that started back in the radical 70s.

Final Thought

The 70s skate scene wasn't just about tricks and trends; it was about freedom, creativity, and pushing boundaries. It laid the groundwork for the sport we know and love today, proving that what started in empty pools and sun-baked streets could evolve into a global phenomenon. So, next time you see a skater carving up the pavement, remember the legacy of the 70s – a time when skateboarding found its feet and started its incredible journey.