Here are the best BMX skatepark etiquette tips that apply to other sports, too!
Skateparks are like the ultimate playgrounds for those of us who love to shred, but they can also turn chaotic really fast if we’re not careful.
Usually, skateparks won’t have that many written rules, but there are MANY unwritten ones that are essential for the ultimate session.
Understanding skatepark etiquette is like learning the rules of the road; it helps avoid accidents and keeps the atmosphere friendly.
Whether you’re on a BMX, skateboard, scooter, or rollerblades, the name of the game is respect:
- Respect for the park
- Respect for others
- And hey, a little self-respect never hurt, either!
From the moment you drop in to the time you pack up your gear, how you act makes all the difference.
And guess what?
When everyone plays nice, we all get more time and space to land those tricks we’ve been grinding on.
This post covers:
- General Skatepark Etiquette
- Beginner-Specific Skatepark Etiquette
- Skatepark Etiquette For Spectators
- Conclusion: Don’t Be “That Guy” or “That Gal”
So, let’s dive deeper into the nitty-gritty of skatepark manners so you’re not “that guy” or “that gal” everyone wishes stayed home.
Sound good? Great, let’s roll!
General Skatepark Etiquette
| Mistake | Description |
| Snaking | Cutting in front of someone who is waiting their turn |
| Not waiting | Failing to wait your turn before dropping into ramps |
| Blocking coping | Hanging gear on coping, blocking its use for tricks |
| Lack of awareness | Not paying attention to surroundings, leading to accidents |
| Ignoring flow | Going against the general direction of park traffic |
| Hogging obstacles | Monopolizing ramps or obstacles without taking breaks |
| Disregarding rules | Not following park-specific rules like helmet or equipment use |
| Marathon runs | Taking overly long runs, preventing others from using the park |
| Disrespecting riders | Mocking others or not giving enough space to less skilled riders |
| Ignoring other sports | Disrespecting riders of different sports (skateboard, scooter, etc.) |
1. Don’t Snake
“Snaking” is when you cut in front of someone else who is waiting their turn.
This is considered very rude and can also be dangerous.
Which brings us to:
2. Wait Your Turn
Always wait for your turn before dropping into a ramp or hitting an obstacle.
Never cut off someone who is already performing a trick or run.
If there are riders (or skaters, scooters, etc.) before you, let them make their run.
Skatepark is for everyone, so when you complete your run, wait for your turn so everyone gets a chance to shred.
If you want to ride more, figure out hours when fewer people (or no) are at the skatepark. (This is what I do.)
3. Keep The Coping Free
I’ve seen so many people hang their bikes, skateboards, scooters and blades over the coping, preventing you from using the coping either for grinds, for stalls or for fufanus and abubacas.
But if it’s your turn and you want to use crowded coping, ask the folks to move off the ramp.
There’s no need to be afraid or shy – just know this: We’ve all been in your situation.
4. Be Aware
Pay attention to your surroundings and the people around you.
This helps avoid collisions and shows that you respect other park users.
Usually, skateparks are made in a way that objects and sections link together, so it’s great for you to:
5. Know the Flow
Observe the general direction in which people are skating or riding. Going against the flow can cause accidents.
But it’s even more important not to:
6. Don’t Hog Obstacles
If you’re practicing a trick on a particular obstacle, take breaks and allow others to use it as well.
Don’t monopolize any part of the park.
7. Respect Park Rules
Follow any rules and guidelines set by the park. This often includes safety rules like wearing BMX helmets.
I’ve also been at a skatepark once where you weren’t allowed to use steel pegs, only plastic.
(You might also be interested in my collection of the best BMX plastic pegs, so there will be no inconveniences at the skatepark.)
8. Marathon Runs
When it’s your turn, remember that others are waiting for their run, too.
That said, don’t spend too long on the course, even if you are an advanced rider with a big bag of tricks.
You might impress others initially, but if your run is too long, everyone will be annoyed and forget about your tricks altogether.
9. Respect Each Other
Skateparks are for everyone, from beginners to pros.
Don’t make fun of anyone for their skill level; give everyone the space they need to practice and improve.
Not only that, give them props and encourage them. We all know that the energy from others’ hype helps us land tricks.
10. Respect Other Sports
BMXers, skaters, scooters, in-liners, it doesn’t matter, we are all in it for the fun – SO respect each other.
Beginner-Specific Skatepark Etiquette
| Mistake | Description |
| Starting too big | Begin with smaller obstacles & work your way up |
| Not watching others | Observe experienced riders to learn techniques & etiquette |
| Interrupting others | Ask for advice without interrupting someone’s session |
| Blocking ramps | Use ramps for intended purposes & don’t block others |
| Staying down after falls | Get up quickly to avoid blocking the path |
11. Start Small
If you’re a beginner, start on smaller obstacles before working your way up to bigger ramps.
Small, incremental steps will take you a LONG way – plus, you’ll avoid injuries.
12. Watch & Learn
Spend some time observing other BMX riders. You can learn a lot about both technique and etiquette this way.
Of course, don’t forget to:
13. Ask For Advice
Don’t be afraid to ask more experienced people for tips or guidance, but also ensure you’re not interrupting their practice time.
Hey, we’ve all once been beginners, asking others questions.
14. Ramp Usage
Use the ramps for what they were built for. And most importantly, don’t learn a flat trick in the middle of the skatepark.
15. Get Up Fast
If you crash, you must get up as fast as possible. When you crash, you block others, so move away quickly.
Don’t lie around and try to make others feel sorry for you. They won’t.
But if you had a bad crash and possibly injured yourself, let others know right away.
However, if you see someone crash, you can always ask them if they’re OK.
Skatepark Etiquette For Spectators
| Mistake | Description |
| Standing on the course | Blocks riders & risks accidents; always stay on the sidelines |
| Bringing pets/kids | Pets or small kids can cause collisions, keep them clear of the park |
| Filming in the way | Standing in the path to film disrupts riders; film from safe spots |
| Disrespecting riders | Negative comments discourage riders; keep the vibe positive |
| Leaving trash | Littering makes the park unpleasant; always clean up after yourself |
16. Stay Off The Course
If you’re not riding, stay out of the way. The edges of the skatepark are generally the best places to watch from.
I’ve seen too many people sit on ledges, rails, even copings – don’t be one of those!
17. Keep Pets & Small Children Away
Skateparks can be dangerous for pets and small children. Keep them away from all the park areas.
I’ve seen a few collisions both with dogs and small children, and it wasn’t a nice watch.
18. Filmers, Stay Of The Way
Even if you’re filming for a web video part or an Instagram clip, ensure you’re not blocking anyone’s path or view.
And especially don’t block obstacles.
19. Be Respectful
Applaud good tricks, avoid making fun of people.
20. Clean Up
This one goes to all: Riders and spectators.
Pick up after yourself.
Don’t leave trash lying around, and if you see some garbage, it’s a nice gesture to pick it up.
Conclusion: Don’t Be “That Guy” or “That Gal”
Alright, that’s the lowdown on skatepark etiquette!
Remember, the skatepark is more than just ramps and rails; it’s a community.
Whether you’re just starting to find your balance or you’re the one everyone’s watching for the next big trick, being RESPECTFUL and aware makes the park a better place for all of us.
So, the next time you head down to shred, bring along not just your board or bike, but also your best manners.
Trust me, a little etiquette goes a long way in making sure everyone has a blast.
Catch you at the park! 🤘
Further reading:
- Common Beginner BMX Mistakes
- Amazing Health Benefits Of BMX
- BMX Bike Maintenance
- What Does BMX Stand For?
- BMX Bike Size Chart
