Surfskating is a form of skateboarding that draws its inspiration directly from the thrilling maneuvers and fluid rhythm of wave surfing.
The defining characteristic of surfskating is the unique design of the boards, specifically the trucks. Surfskates are designed with softer, swiveling front trucks that allow a much greater degree of movement. This permits riders to carve on their boards in a manner similar to that of a surfboard or snowboard.
This increased maneuverability makes it possible to generate speed through carving alone, enabling you to traverse flat surfaces, or even inclines, with relative ease. While surfskating can be thoroughly enjoyed on city streets, the fun doesn’t end there. Skaters can also bring their surfskates to pumptracks, skateparks, or skate bowls, treating the concrete walls as their own personal wave.
Although surfskating shares a lineage with traditional skateboarding, which originated in the late 1940s, it didn't take shape until the 1990s. These boards tend to be a bit larger than a standard skateboard but smaller than a longboard, striking the perfect balance for carving maneuvers.
The first company to introduce surfskate boards was Carver, based in the USA. Since then, the field has grown with notable brands such as SmoothStar from Australia, YOW from Spain, and Waterborne from the USA.
When it comes to tricks, surfskating deviates from the typical ollie-based stunts you might see in traditional skateboarding. Surfskaters instead favor old-school moves like snaps, slides, and hand plants that reflect its surfing roots.
If this wave of skateboarding has caught your interest, consider joining a local surfskate group on Facebook to connect with fellow enthusiasts and to learn more. Surfskating is more than just a sport or a hobby—it's a unique blend of surfing and skating that gives riders the thrill of the waves on the concrete. So why wait? Grab a surfskate and start carving today!