SKATE SHOP ETIQUETTE: THE DO'S AND DONT'S WHEN VISITING YOUR LOCAL

Posted on 16 April 2025
By George Stix
Posted in skateshopetiquette
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Your local skate shop isn’t just a place to buy gear—it’s a cornerstone of the scene. It’s where new skaters get welcomed, veterans hang out, and the culture stays alive. But just like any space with history and respect, there’s a code. Here’s a breakdown of the do’s and don’ts when you step into your local skate shop.

1. DO Say What’s Up

A quick “What’s up?” or a head nod goes a long way. You don’t need to be best friends with the crew, but acknowledging the people behind the counter sets the tone. It shows respect—and it might score you a better vibe while you're there.

2. DON’T Treat It Like a Mall Store

This isn’t a chain. Don’t walk in with a sense of entitlement. You’re entering a space run by people who skate, live, and breathe the scene. Treat it accordingly. Don’t throw stuff around, act passive-aggressive, or bark demands.

3. DO Ask Questions (But Don’t Flex)

Got a question about trucks or wheel hardness? Ask away. Shop staff are there to help. But don’t come in flexing like you know everything—especially if you’re asking for help. Humility will get you further than hype.

4. DON’T Film Yourself Unless It’s Cool

Skate shops aren’t sets for TikToks or Insta stories unless you’ve got the go-ahead. Respect the shop’s vibe. If they’re chill with you filming, cool. If not, keep the phone down and be present.

5. DO Support When You Can

Even if you’re just browsing, make a mental note to come back and grab something when you can. Skating isn’t cheap, and shops survive off your support—not just your presence.

6. DON’T Compare Prices to Online Stores

Saying “I could get this cheaper online” is a big no-go. The shop isn’t trying to rip you off—they’re keeping the scene alive. Online can’t give you free grip application, sizing advice, or connect you with local spots.

7. DO Hang Out (But Read the Room)

Some shops are hang spots. Others run tight shifts. If the shop’s slow and the crew is vibing, chill for a bit. If they’re slammed, grab what you need and bounce. Don’t overstay or block traffic.

8. DON’T Use the Shop as a Skatepark

No one wants you practicing no-complys in the middle of the grip tape station. Respect the floor. If there’s a shop mini ramp and it’s open—cool. If not, save the skating for the street or the park.

9. DO Back the Local Brands

Most core shops carry gear from small brands, homie companies, or regional crews. Supporting these brands means you’re putting your money back into skateboarding—not some faceless warehouse.

10. DON’T Be Loud or Disrespectful

Skate shops thrive on personality—but not obnoxiousness. Don’t yell across the shop, make crude comments, or blast your own music. This ain’t a party—it’s a place of business, culture, and community.

11. DO Bring Your Board In

Bringing in your setup gives the crew a sense of what you ride and makes convos easier. Need new bushings? They can eyeball it. Need a new deck? They’ll help size you up. Plus, it shows you actually skate.

12. DON’T Act Brand-Elitist

Skating is diverse. Just because you ride a certain brand doesn’t mean it’s the only one that matters. Trash-talking other people’s setups or deck choices is corny. Keep it open-minded.

13. DO Respect the OGs

If someone older is telling stories, dropping knowledge, or just posted up—listen. They’ve probably got more miles (and slams) than you realize. Skate shops are full of history if you’re paying attention.

14. DON’T Ghost After Gripping

If you get grip tape applied or a setup built, throw some gratitude their way. A quick “Thanks” or a few bucks for the tip jar shows you respect the labor. Don’t treat free services like you’re owed them.

15. DO Represent Right

If you’re repping the shop’s hoodie, tee, or sticker on your board—carry that name with pride. Don’t act reckless at the skatepark with a shop logo on your chest. That gear means something. Represent it well.

Bottom Line: Your local skate shop is more than a store—it’s a temple. Walk in with respect, leave with good gear and better connections. Skateboarding thrives when the community looks out for each other, and that starts at the shop.

Stix SGV has proudly served the San Gabriel Valley skateboarding community since the late ‘90s. With three locations across Los Angeles County, we’ve been deeply rooted in the local scene. Our Monrovia shop has been a staple since 1997, followed by our Claremont location in 2014, and our South Pasadena shop opening its doors in 2022. Our mission has always been simple: to uphold skateboarding culture and stay true to our community.