‘I wear a five panel because I am a fashion rem”

 

Quote above courtesy of ‘thebighoppa’ from Sidewalk Magazine’s online forum. The Skater look has seen a transformation in recent years. Thanks to brands like Palace, Huf, Supreme and artists like Tyler the Creator, skating is at the forefront of urban fashion and culture. Not so long ago Skaters were outcasts– if you weren’t into football, you weren’t cool. Now the opposite is true. Skater style is now the epitome of cutting edge style. Think Palace tees, Supreme crewnecks, Penfield shirts and Quiet Life five panels.

However, the real Skater (ie those that actually skate) doesn’t care as much about fashion. They’re more interested in the sport itself; making the front of Transworld Skateboarder or Sidewalk magazine, sponsorship deals and getting picked up by outfits like Shine Distribution. These Skaters are young and successful; some are barely out of nappies and are touring the world for months at a time. The rise to success comes first, exclusive boards and clothes second.

So who are their icons? How about Danny Wainwright, he managed to ollie a 44½-inch rail at the ASR Show in Long Beach, watch the YouTube video  – wow! Closer to home at the iconic Southbank skate park you’ll find Ben Jobe, known for skating barefoot playing a harmonica. He managed a switch backside flip over the wall into the bank, it’s as impressive as it sounds. Today’s fresh-faced heroes include people like Ashley Skidmore and Korahn Gayle who are burning brightly in the Bristol skate scene, look out for footage of those two at the Lloyds building.

The skating scene is rich and diverse, online and offline. Skater forums are stacked with homegrown videos, interviews, nostalgia trips – proving they’re a productive, aspirational Tribe. While they’ve had a resurgence through fashion, it’s still about pulling off 20 stair kickflips in a street lit alleyway.

Check out the high Ollie record!