Talking Like a Skateboarder
To talk like a skateboarder, call awesome things "sick," "rad," or "insane." If you’re excited, say you’re "stoked." If you’re feeling worn out, tell people you’re ready to “crash.” Skaters are sometimes referred to as “boarders,” especially when someone is trying to be witty.
Age and Learning Skateboarding
Skateboarding might seem like a boy’s club as most skaters are male. The recommended age to start skateboarding is between 5-10 years. Children under 5 may not have the balance necessary to learn and might end up frustrated.
Skate Culture and Terminology
The best way to pick up skateboard lingo is by hanging out where skaters do. It’s essential not to overuse these terms or fake an accent to sound cool — using your natural voice is preferable. A slight Canadian-sounding accent is generally accepted.
- Insane: Something amazing
- Stoked: Excited
- Crash: Tired
Four basic skating terms to know are:
- Carve
- Fakie
- Frontside
- Grinds
To gain a better insight into the skateboarder mentality, engage with them and learn why they skate. Watching interviews on YouTube can also give a great perspective on their thoughts and culture.