San Leandro, CA – Skate Shops News: Headphones Or No Headphones? That is the Question!

Just found a new track. About to hype the sesh up! Pop in the ear buds and throw your board down…  

or…..

Listen to the sound of the wheels on the pavement. The pleasing sound of the wood pop blended with the rush of fabric brushing up grip tape, the grit when metal hits coping. 

Two schools of thought. Headphones or No Headphones while skating.

Some skaters can focus with a laser like intensity when they put those headphones in, while others seem to just be their own world with the music playing a sound track to their life. Regardless, those who choose headphones always seem to have their  perfect track just for this trick, and are almost always in their own world. This isn’t always a negative thing. I have personally seen skaters that can utilize music to help them overcome fear and pain. The music seems to elevate them to a level where they can flow through a park with a rhythm that matches the track. 

Other skaters, who choose not to wear headphones, have a different advantage. Being aware while skateboarding is very important. Not only for your safety, but other around you. Especially at skate parks. It’s always good to be aware of what is going on around you. Not only are they aware, but skaters who don’t wear headphones are more likely to converse and make friends at the skate parks. 

In my personal opinion, I think that there is a time and place for headphones while skating. If you are filming and trying to land a banger and you need that hype up, then by all means pop those ear buds in, but if you are just having a sesh at your local, leave the phone in the car and go find someone new to play skate against. Have a fun sesh. 

words by Keith Halterman