Paris is a multipurpose city and in recent years has introduced special spaces to host skaters from all over the world. When talking about skating, however, we don't only talk about having spaces suitable for this practice but it is about creating a culture that revolves around a strong, cohesive and fervent community.
The skateboard seems to be born in the 50s in California: a group of surfers tired of waiting for a good swell, stole wooden boards that cut in the shape of skates and added wheels made from roller skates.
At the time the nomenclature skateboard still didn't exist and they spoke of sidewalk surfing.
We could say that a practice similar to longboarding was born before skateboarding since the movements of the surf on the waves were imitated.
Thanks to the architecture of the pools concave at the bottom (designed by the architect Alvar Aalto and copied by many) and the drought of 1975 that forced the rich owners to keep their pools empty, here are the kids who began to rock on the curved surfaces of those pools.
Longboarding in Paris has become a popular pastime among the city's youth and thrill-seekers. The smooth and winding streets of the French capital offer the perfect terrain for longboarding, with ample opportunities for cruising, carving, and even downhill racing.One of the most popular places for longboarding in Paris is the famous Champs-Élysées, a long and wide avenue that runs from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. The Champs-Élysées is known for its picturesque views, and its wide and smooth pavement makes it an ideal spot for longboarding.Another popular spot for longboarding in Paris is the banks of the Seine River. The river's smooth pavement and scenic views make it a perfect place for cruising and carving. Many longboarders also take advantage of the flat and wide promenade along the river to practice their freeriding and dancing moves.Longboarding in Paris also offers the opportunity to explore the city's many parks, such as the Luxembourg Gardens and the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. These parks offer a variety of terrains, including hills, stairs, and tight corners, perfect for more experienced longboarders to practice their freeriding, sliding and downhill skills.Despite the popularity of longboarding in Paris, it is important to note that the activity is not without its risks. The city's busy streets can be dangerous for longboarders, and it is crucial to wear the proper protective gear such as helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads.
Skateboarding in Paris, as well as bicycles and scooters, has become one of the main transport to move around the city: there are more than 1100 km of ever-increasing cycle paths.There are numerous associations that initiate the practice of this activity and many others that work as a glue between old and new members.There are various spots very popular with skaters and longoboarders and while the first prefer equipped spaces, the others are limited to grinding kilometers around the city wherever their wheels can turn.Just to name a few:
- Quai Anatole
- Palais de Tokyo
- Place de la République
- Musée du LouvreMeeting Marco, Stef, Gaël, Martin, Pierre, Adeline, Antonine, AJ, Hamza and all the others confirmed this vision: people apparently different but united by a single passion.
Longboarding in Paris is a unique and exciting way to explore the city. From the famous Champs-Élysées to the scenic banks of the Seine River, Paris offers a variety of terrains and experiences for longboarders of all skill levels. As with any activity, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions and abide by the city's laws and regulations. With the right mindset and equipment, longboarding in Paris can be a thrilling and unforgettable experience.