Rip City Skates was founded by Jim McDowell and his cousin Bill Poncher. The shop opened as a skateboard and a roller skate shop. The popularity of rollerskating waned and the shop became a meeting place for the Santa Monica and greater west L.A. skateboard scene. Rip City is known for its interior decoration, with the walls of the shop lined with skateboards.

The film features Mark Gonzales, Eric Dressen, Lizzie Armanto, Tony Alva, and the Rip City locals.

The 2nd Annual Skate N' Scare Skate Contest is set for Halloween afternoon from 3 - 6PM at the Venice Skatepark.

Prizes for the best skaters in costumes, and raffles every half hour from brands such as Naybor Hoodiez.

Check out photos from last year, Click Here



Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

A short documentary was made about Rip City Skates, the longest running skate shop in Santa Monica.

Started by Jim McDowell and Bill Poncher in 1978, the shop was crucial in setting the tone for skate and street culture in LA, which reverberated all over Southern California and across the globe.

Rip City will host a screening on Friday October 20th at 2-3 FAIR.
1800 Berkeley St. Unit B,
Santa Monica CA, 90404

Kinda Crazy will screen the film at 6:30pm and several more times throughout the night. DJs Paul T and Mike Brillstein will be on the decks, with drinks from Santa Monica Brew Works and Tolago Hard Seltzer.

For more info, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

We take a look at the history of the Pavilion / Pit skate spot and find out why it isn't there today. We check out the old and new skatepark, skate them both, and we check out the other marvels Venice has to offer.

For more Throwbacks, CLick Here

A skate session on an inflatable mini half-pipe is set up at Santa Monica Beach.

Boarding For Breast Cancer is thrilled to announce the 16th Annual Skate The Coast Presented by Suja Organic on October 21 + 22, 2023 in Los Angeles, CA.

Skate the Coast is a 15 mile skate-bike-roll from the Santa Monica Pier to Redondo Beach along the iconic Southern California Strand with the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop for this mellow cruise.

Participants of all ages and abilities on wheels are welcome to join B4BC as they skate-bike-roll 15 miles to promote its mission of staying healthy and being active while raising funds for its breast cancer education, prevention and survivorship programs. Participants can also join in on the fun virtually by cruising down their local trail or path and posting to social media if they can’t make it in person.

To kick off the weekend, there will be a Registration Party on October 21st from 3pm-8 pm at Firestone Walker Brewery in Venice, CA. People are welcome to swing by, sign waivers, grab their event tees and goodie bags while enjoying some good music, eats, drinks, raffles and auction​s.



The 15-mile event is taking place on October 22nd, with participants meeting up at 7:00 am at Veteran’s Park in Redondo Beach for check in and shuttles. The skating begins at 9 am at Santa Monica Pier and will end at 1:00 pm at Redondo Beach, with a three hydration stops in between. Following the event there will be a finish line party from 12 pm – 4 pm at Dive N Surf. The goal is to fundraise $75,000 and B4BC looks forward to getting the community together for some fresh air and movement, all for breast cancer awareness!

For more info, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

After several months of being unofficially ridden, on Sunday September 24th, the Inglewood Pumptrack has officially opened to the public.

The openeing day ceremony was a bike only event, since this pump track was actually built for bikes, not skateboards or scooters.

Fortunately, the city has decided to allow skateboards on the track on certain days. 3 days of the week have been designated as Bikes Only. The other for days will be bikes and skatebooards. Scooters are not allowed at all.

Here's everything you need to know about the pump track:

It is actually 2 different pump tracks, one designated for Beginner/Intermediate, and one for Intermediate/professional users.

Woodlands Track
Beginner / Intermediate


World Championship Track
Intermediate / Professional




Pumptrack Rules

Schedule:

- Inglewood Pumptrack was purpose-built for bikes, but we also love all things skate. Please be mindful of the days when bikes take priority and observe the community guidelines. Good Vibes Only!
- Monday: Bike & Skate
- Tuesday: Bike Priority
- Wednesday: Bike & Skate
- Thursday: Bike Priority
- Friday: Bike & Skate
- Saturday: Bike Priority
- Sunday: Bike & Skate



General Rules:

- Use: Bikes and skaters please use at appropriate times. No scooters, e-bikes, motorized vehicles or RC cars.
- Safety: RIDE AT YOUR OWN RISK! Riding can be extremely hazardous! Helmets REQUIRED for people under 18 (California Vehicle Code §21212). Additional protective gear recommended. Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t obstruct entries or the riding areas. Stay in control; be courteous and share the park.
- Hours: Open during park hours only.
- Care: No waxing, ramps, installations of any kind. No damaging or modifying features of the track. No throwing skateboards, bikes or objects.
- Prohibitions: No private events, food, music, pets, firearms, alcohol, smoking, vaping, or drugs. No camping, fires, fireworks, graffiti or tagging. Violation of these prohibitions may result in immediate removal from the premises and penalties imposed by the City of Inglewood.
- Environment: Keep the park clean and beautiful. Respect what was created for you to enjoy, including native vegetation and wildlife.
- Professional Filming: All professional filming requires advance City of Inglewood legal permit. Contact pumptrack@growcyclingfoundation.org for details. Violation of permit prohibitions may result in immediate removal from the premises and penalties imposed by the City of Inglewood.
- In Case of Emergency: Dial 911.

Riders:

- Ride in one community direction at all times.
- Do not block the track. Always move off the track when not in motion.
- Ride safely and within your ability. Start small, progress gradually.
- Ensure your equipment is in good working order.

Pedestrians & Spectators:

- No loitering in the riding area.
- Spectators are to stay outside the riding area unless aiding someone.
- Parents/guardians, supervise young children at all times.

Community Guidelines:

- Respect Each Other: Take turns and keep a safe distance. Be mindful of others, adjust your speed when the track is busy, and be courteous to everyone.
- Inclusivity: This Pumptrack is for bringing people together to build community and to share joy. Treat others with dignity and kindness, regardless of skill level or background.
- Belonging: This Pumptrack was built as a place of belonging. Help foster a sense of community by engaging positively with others and encouraging new riders. Share tips, offer assistance if wanted, and make connections.
- Stewardship: Participate in keeping the pumptrack clean and in good condition. If you see litter or damage, please address it if you can or report it to pumptrack@growcyclingfoundation.org.
- Teaching & Learning: Encourage safe riding by example. If you see someone struggling, be respectful and supportive. Be the friend you wish you had made when you started out.
- Communication: Keep the dialogue open and respectful.

The track is inside Edward Vincent Jr. Park at 700 Warren Ln, Inglewood, CA 90302

For directions to the park, Click Here

Behind the scenes of the Born x Raised / Nike ad shooting at Venice Beach.

Checking the Los Angeles' new pump track over in Inglewood. Even though it was made for bicycles, it's being used more by skateboarders.

Just like the one Lonnie Toft rode in the 70's, Kevin from Ocean Park 26 made a 8-wheel skateboard and goes skates it. Joined by Sante Bentivoglio of Bay Street Boards, they hit up Stoner Skate Park, a mini-ramp on the Santa Monica Pier, and Ocean Park.

The Santa Monica Triple set , some history of the vast number of tricks that have gone down it over the years! We also take a look at what there is to skate near by.

Kevin from Ocean Park 26 takes us on a visit to Bay Street Boards in Santa Monica, CA. A local family-owned surf & skate shop.

Bay Street Boards
3216 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica,
CA 90404, United States

Scenes from the free Venice locals punk rock show featuring No Reaction, Sick Sense, and more....including some skating on the sidewalk mini-ramp.

Johnny Strange was an adventure seeker deep in his heart. He accomplished so much at such a young age and was purely and intrinsically motivated. He was inspired by the world around him – nature, culture, sport, and used his opportunities to do good.

The Malibu Chili Cook Off hosts an annual skateboarding contest honoring late Malibu local, Johnny Strange. Competitors of all ages and skill levels as well as an enthusiastic crowd gather to watch this exciting contest. Winners are awarded cash prizes and honorable mention awards with various prizes. This year, the 3rd Annual will take place on Sunday, Sept 4 @ 3PM. (Registration will take place on site).

It’s free to register! However, the $15 The Malibu Chili Cook Off admission fee is required. Buy tickets for Sunday or the whole weekend, Click Here!

Over $5,000 in cash prizes and skate gear that will be awarded.

Prize Purse
Intermediate ($500) – 1st place $250, 2nd place $150, 3rd place $100
Advanced ($4,000) – 1st place $1,500, 2nd place $1,000, 3rd place $750, 4th place $250
$500 random cash and prizes to be given out all day

It’s a jam-style contest with two heats, advanced (pro skaters) and intermediate (amateur skaters). Skaters will have an opportunity to show off their skills. Prizes and cash will be awarded. Parent or guardian must be present to sign a waiver if you’re under 18. All skaters must sign on-site waiver to participate.

3pm – Intermediate Mini-Ramp Jam
3:30pm – Advanced Mini-Ramp Jam
Awards immediately following

For more info and to buy tickets, Click Here.

Explore the fusion of skateboarding and art at No Comply. A tribute to the renegades who skate and create. Tap into the passion and energy that fuels the skate scene and experience the artwork it inspires.

Join us August 19th at 2 pm for an artist talk with the legendary Californian artist Jeff Ho.

Renowned for his vibrant and lively paintings on surfboards and skateboards, he transformed these instruments into captivating works of art.

During this talk, Jeff will delve into the true meaning of "No Comply" and share the significance behind the show's concept.

This event promises to be an enriching experience for anyone with an appreciation for art, surf, skate culture, and unconventional creativity.



Gallery is located in the inner courtyard of Santee Passage at 743 Santee St., just walk under the Santee Passage sign and you will find us on the right hand side two doors down.

PARKING There are two public lots surrounding REN Gallery. We recommend the lot at 759 Maple St, where there is a walkway straight into the Santee Passage courtyard entrance, or there is another public lot at 816 Santee St. on the corner of 8th and Santee.

Saturday, August 19 · 2 - 6pm
Ren Gallery
743 Santee Street #unit b
Los Angeles, CA 90014

For more info & for tickets, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Video highlights from the Skateboard Contests at the Venice Beach Games.

Here's skate contest photos from the Venice Beach Games.

This set of photos was shot by Six12 Media. These are just a few of the 250+ photos from this event. The link to the complete gallery is down below.

















You can find 200+ more photos from this session, all full size and in high-resolution, in this photo gallery:

Venice Beach Games Skate Contest Photo Gallery

SKATE COMPETITION + FREE SKATE. Sunday 12-4pm!

12-3pm Free Skate
3-4pm Best Trick Competition

PRIZES. RAFFLES. FREE STUFF.

WHERE :
Palisades Rec Center
851 Alma Real Dr, Pacific Palisades

For more info, Click Here