Hawaii is home to a variety of action and extreme sports. Big wave surfing is chief among them, certainly. But there is another sport here that involves riding mountains in the literal sense. Downhill skateboarding is enjoyed by a small but committed group of individuals, none of whom seem possessed of the self-preservation instinct.
Hurtling at speeds up to 35 miles per hour down treacherous, snaking mountain roads, riders contend not only with heart-pounding velocities and the inexorable pull of gravity but with the very real possibility of being hit by a motor vehicle travelling at similar speeds.
Downhill skateboarding traces its beginnings back decades, when it was the eccentric pursuit of skateboarders outside the mainstream. Since then it has grown considerably, gaining worldwide popularity and spawning the International Gravity Sports Association, the sport’s sanctioning body, which holds downhill skateboarding and street luge (where the rider is flat on their back) competitions around the world.
Hawaii’s downhill skateboarding community is more grassroots than all of that, but no less serious. Each of Hawaii’s islands are essentially individual mountains, volcanoes born of the same hotspot at the bottom of the ocean. There are hundreds of mountain roads throughout the state that offer ideal conditions for downhill skateboarding. All it takes to enjoy the sport is a dry, smooth road surface and a skateboard. Obviously, a certain degree of fearlessness is also required.
Different types of skateboards are used by riders, with some opting for longboards up to 46”, designed specifically for downhill skating with softer wheels for traction and a wider wheel base for stability. Others ride conventional street boards with harder wheels and slide to control speed. More serious downhill riders wear helmets, thick gloves, knee and elbow pads, and sturdy shoes to protect against road rash and head injuries. A former downhill enthusiast myself, I lost a fair amount of skin on a variety of Oahu hills before retiring after a brain rattling concussion sustained in a fall at 25 miles per hour.
Roots Run Deep: Skateboarding in Hawaii isn’t just a pastime; it’s woven into the fabric of the islands’ culture. Legends like Kalani Robb and Keanu Asing paved the way, proving that island boys and girls could shred with the best. Today, their legacy inspires a new generation to push boundaries and redefine what’s possible on a board.
More Than Grinds and Kickflips: The Hawaiian skate scene is about more than just mastering tricks. It’s about community. Local crews like the Hawaii Skateboarders Club organize events, jam sessions, and charity drives, building bridges between different islands and generations. This dedication to giving back extends to environmental stewardship, with skaters leading beach cleanups and advocating for sustainable practices.
Aloha Spirit Meets Street Cred: What sets Hawaii’s skateboarders apart? It’s the infectious blend of raw talent and island vibes. Sure, they can throw down with the best, but their sessions are infused with the spirit of Aloha. Smiles and shakas abound, creating a welcoming atmosphere that invites beginners and seasoned veterans alike to share the stoke.
Beyond the Beach: The Hawaiian skate scene isn’t confined to concrete bowls and polished ramps. Street corners, empty pools, and makeshift obstacles become canvases for creativity. Skaters embrace the island’s raw beauty, incorporating natural elements like volcanic rock and bamboo into their lines. This ingenuity and resourcefulness are hallmarks of the Hawaiian skateboarding spirit.
So, next time you picture Hawaii, remember: beyond the surfers and sunbathers, a vibrant community of skateboarders carves their own path, fueled by passion, respect, and the relentless pursuit of that perfect line. Come shred paradise, and experience the Aloha spirit on four wheels.
Want to learn more? Check out these resources:
- Association of Skateboarders in Hawaii: https://www.skatehawaii.org/
- Hawaii Skateboarders Club: https://hawaiiskateboardersclub.com/
- Roots Skatepark: https://www.rootsskatepark.org/
