Introduction

Skateboarding is more than a sport; it’s a culture, a lifestyle, and a form of self-expression. One of the most vibrant aspects of this culture is the world of skate zines. These DIY publications, often created by skaters themselves, capture the spirit, creativity, and community of skateboarding in a way that mainstream media can’t. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the world of skate zines, exploring some of the most influential publications like Lines, Lost Art, and Same Old Zine, and their impact on the skateboarding community.

The DIY Nature of Skate Zines

Skate zines embody the DIY ethos that is at the heart of skateboarding culture. Just as skaters transform urban landscapes into their playgrounds, they turn their experiences, stories, and artwork into zines that reflect their unique perspectives. These zines are often hand-drawn, photocopied, and distributed within the community, making each one a labor of love and a testament to the skater’s passion for the sport.

Creating a skate zine

Creating a skate zine is not just about showcasing one’s skateboarding skills or knowledge. It’s also about contributing to the community, sparking conversations, and inspiring others. Whether it’s a zine featuring trick tutorials, skatepark reviews, or skater profiles, each publication adds to the rich tapestry of skateboarding culture.

Influential Skate Zines

Skate Pal ‘Lines’ is a prime example of a skate zine that has made a significant impact on the skateboarding community. This A5 zine, with its 300 GSM front cover and 115gsm inside pages, is a visual and textual exploration of skateboarding in Palestine. The zine features a mix of editorial content, illustrations, and skate photography, all presented with great typography and ample white space to let the content breathe. Lines is more than just a collection of skateboarding images and stories. It’s a platform for highlighting the skateboarding scene in Palestine, a region that is often overlooked in mainstream skateboarding media. By showcasing the talent and passion of Palestinian skaters, Lines is not just a zine; it’s a statement, a testament to the power of skateboarding to transcend borders and unite people.

Lost Art and Nike Skateboarding Collaboration

Lost Art is another influential skate zine that deserves mention. This zine is a collaboration with Nike Skateboarding, and it’s a visual feast for the eyes. The full-bleed, punchy, faded black and white images throughout the zine are a testament to the artistry and creativity inherent in skateboarding.

Design of Lost Art

Lost Art goes beyond traditional page layouts, mixing and matching multiple images on a page and overlaying text on images. This Ray Gun-esque approach to design gives the zine a dynamic, energetic feel that mirrors the excitement of skateboarding itself.

Same Old Zine: A Skateboarding Magazine Book

Same Old Zine takes the concept of a skate zine to another level. This skateboarding magazine book features over 100 pages of carefully curated content, including stunning illustrations, engaging text, and breathtaking photography. The zine is perfect bound with matt lamination on the cover, giving it a professional and polished look.

Content of Same Old Zine

Same Old Zine is a celebration of skateboarding in all its forms. Whether it’s showcasing gnarly tricks, highlighting underground skate spots, or profiling emerging skaters, the zine captures the essence of skateboarding culture in a way that is both authentic and engaging.

Section 5: Wolftown and Sidewalk Mag Redux

Two other notable skate publications that deserve mention are Wolftown and Sidewalk Mag Redux. Both are perfect bound publications that feature almost 200 pages of content, making them more akin to books than traditional zines.

Wolftown Zine

Wolftown, a product of Wolftown Skateboards, is a testament to the skateboarding scene in Wolverhampton, UK. The zine is a collection of montage artwork, free-flowing page layouts, and gnarly graphics that capture the essence of the local skateboarding community. It’s a celebration of the city’s skateboarding culture, showcasing the talent and passion of its skaters. You can check out their latest issue here.

Sidewalk Mag Redux

Sidewalk Mag Redux, on the other hand, is an iconic publication in the skateboarding world. It’s a comprehensive archive of skateboarding history, featuring interviews, profiles, and stunning photography. The zine is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of skateboarding culture and its impact on society. You can delve deeper into their content here.

Converse One Star x Footpatrol lookbook

Converse and Footpatrol, a premier London sneaker boutique, unveil a modern spin on the iconic One Star silhouette. Drawing inspiration from Footpatrol’s birthplace, Berwick Street Market in Soho, the collaboration embodies the cultural richness of this lively neighbourhood.

The Footpatrol x Converse One Star, available in classic black or pristine white, marries aesthetic appeal with high-quality materials. Signature logos on the outer and inner sides represent the union of these brand identities.

To accompany his collab we printed an A5 lookbook with a silk finish. Explore our portfolio for more on this exciting skateboard print case study. The Footpatrol x Converse One Star collection is now available at select Converse and Footpatrol stores.

The Impact of Skate Zines on Skateboarding Culture

Skate zines play a crucial role in fostering connection and creativity within the skateboarding community. They provide a platform for skaters to share their experiences, showcase their skills, and express their views on various aspects of skateboarding culture. By doing so, they contribute to the diversity and vibrancy of the skateboarding scene.

Historical Significance of Skate Zines

Moreover, skate zines also serve as a historical record of skateboarding culture. They capture the evolution of the sport, the rise of different skateboarding styles and trends, and the stories of skaters who have shaped the scene. In this sense, skate zines are not just publications; they are time capsules that preserve the legacy of skateboarding for future generations.

Wrapping this up, skate zines are a vital part of skateboarding culture. They embody the DIY ethos of the sport, provide a platform for skaters to share their stories, and contribute to the richness and diversity of the skateboarding community. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a newbie, exploring skate zines like Lines, Lost Art, and Same Old Zine is a great way to immerse yourself in the world of skateboarding. So when you take the board out tomorrow, get your mate to find some great angles to shoot you from!