Skateboarding, once a niche activity relegated to the underground, has taken on new life since its inclusion in the 2020 Olympics. The global spotlight has transformed it into a respected athletic discipline, captivating people worldwide. In India, where skateboarding was once an unfamiliar concept, there has been a surge in interest, with Goa emerging as a vibrant space for this dynamic sport.
This small state has rapidly developed into a hub for skaters across India. The region’s open-minded culture and scenic landscapes make it an ideal playground for the skateboarding community.
At the heart of Goa’s skateboarding scene is the Skate Life Goa crew (@skatelifegoa) with its ‘home’ at the Youth Hostel Skatepark in Panjim. This park, has re-emerged with a makeover in 2019 due to the efforts of the local skateboard pioneers that have had support from different brands over the years.
The park is more than just a collection of ramps and obstacles. It is a social hub where skateboarders of all ages and levels come together to share their passion, exchange tips, and build an ecosystem. The park regularly hosts Sunday Skate Jams and other smaller fun skate events, crucial in fostering a sense of community and helping the sport grow organically in the region.
But Panjim’s Youth Hostel Skatepark is just one of many spots where skateboarding culture is thriving. Goa’s skateboarding scene is enriched by other popular locations, each with its unique character and challenges. While the older skateparks of Assagao and Morjim are no longer accessible, newer spots with steep hills and obstacles in Altinho, Porvorim, and Anjuna have become favourites. Anjuna also has a skatepark at Cirrus where skaters often gather to practice and perfect their tricks.
Although some of the older locations have become inaccessible over time, the determination of Goa’s skateboarding community has kept the sport alive and thriving. The resilience and adaptability of these skaters are a testament to their passion for the sport, ensuring that skateboarding remains a central part of life in Goa. Events like the SkateLifeGoa Open further cement the region’s significance in the Indian skateboarding landscape, drawing participants from all over the country to compete and celebrate their shared love for skateboarding.
Goa also has three skateboarding companies that have originated here - Skateable Spaces, Piso Skateboards and Sauce Magazine. Skateable designs and builds Skateparks, Piso sells skateboards and skate gear, and Sauce Magazine has been documenting skateboarding in India.
Goa’s skateboarding culture is not just about the sport itself; The state’s history of embracing alternative lifestyles and subcultures has made it a natural home for skateboarding. The sport fits seamlessly into Goa’s ethos of freedom, creativity, and self-expression, making it more than just a physical activity—it’s a way of life.
This cultural integration is evident in how skateboarding events are organized and celebrated in Goa. They are not just competitions; they are festivals, gatherings of like-minded individuals who share a common love for the sport and the lifestyle it represents. Music, art, and fashion are all integral parts of these events, creating a vibrant, multifaceted experience that goes beyond the skateboard.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Goa’s skateboarding culture is the innovative use of small, unconventional spaces to create skateable environments. In a country where traditional skateparks are still relatively scarce, the ability to transform almost any space into a skate spot is a game-changer. Organisations like Skateable Spaces are at the forefront of this movement, providing the expertise and equipment necessary to convert limited spaces into functional skateboarding areas.
The approach is simple yet effective: by constructing ramps, ensuring proper surfaces, and making the most of available space, virtually any location can become a haven for skaters and a growing community. This method is particularly important in a place like India, where real estate can be limited, and traditional skateparks may not always be feasible. By embracing this innovative mindset, the skateboarding community in Goa has been able to thrive, making the sport more accessible to a broader audience.
Schools and government bodies are already creating skateparks in their spaces seeing the growing interest in skateboarding in children and the youth. As more skateable spaces are created and more people are drawn to the sport, the future of skateboarding in Goa looks increasingly bright. SkateLifeGoa is already setting the standard for skateboarding in India hosting an annual Skate contest in the summer with 250+ attendees.
Panjim is also set to get its first international standard skatepark this year that is designed by Skateable Spaces and Architecture Autonomous. As the sport continues to grow, Goa is likely to play an even more significant role in shaping its future. If one is keen on trying skateboarding, drop by the local skatepark in Miramar. It’s free and open to all.