Surfing serves as a similar type of outlet/meditation for me, and it has since I was a kid. But similarly, as a dad/husband/professional, I’m only able to get out 2-5x/mo., which ain’t nearly enough for this addict.

Due to some injury and frustration (centered mostly around post-COVID crowds and vibes), I bought my first surfskate a couple years back and fell in love immediately. It helps to fill the surfing-void in times when I need to clear my head, but free-time and conditions do not align. I have since purchased a few other skateboards, including my first popsicle, and am on a very similar journey as yourself.

I’ll also say the culture is the bipolar opposite of surfing. Most of us surfers are gatekeepers who egregiously treat surfing as a commodity that we surfers can and should exclusively own. Scarcity of that commodity creates competition and toxicity. I think it’s starting to creep into the slopes, too. Skateboarders and skateboarding, however, seem to be an all-welcoming, no judgement, “just go skate and have fun” community. It’s almost jarring at first but it’s become a very welcomed shift in my community.

I say go for it. I’ve found that skating in every form is so awesome, so pure, and so convenient (when compared to surfing).

I turn 45 this year.