Within the skateboarding community, the Mall Grab Skateboard controversy has been an ongoing controversy for a long time. This term refers to a method of holding a skateboard by gripping the trucks from above, and it has been a subject of much debate over the years because of the various opinions and misconceptions surrounding this practice. Many people view Mall Grab as a sign of inexperience or a lack of style, whereas others recognize its practical benefits and strategic uses.
Undoubtedly, the controversy is mainly a result of cultural and stylistic divides among skaters, where both preferences and traditions play an important role in determining the outcome. It is important to understand the origins and reasons behind this debate to dispel myths and foster a more inclusive attitude toward the different techniques of skateboarding. Let’s look at the facts and myths surrounding Mall Grab to understand this polarising issue better and gain a more comprehensive perspective.
Table of Contents
Origins of the Mall Grab Skateboard
By holding skateboard by the trucks from above, the Mall Grab technique, which is characterized by having the skateboard by the trucks from above, provides a practical approach for carrying a skateboard in everyday settings. Undoubtedly, the term “Mall Grab” originated from the sight of skaters carrying their boards in this manner while roaming through shopping malls or urban areas while holding their boards. As a result of this grip, it was convenient to maneuver through crowded spaces without worrying about the board dragging on the ground or hitting passersby as it flew through the air.
As time passed, the Mall Grab became synonymous with beginners learning to skate because it was an intuitive and comfortable way to hold the board. Despite its practical origins, this grip has come under scrutiny and has been branded as unattractive or as evidence of a lack of skateboarding prowess despite its practical origins. Despite that, many seasoned skaters continue to use the Mall Grab for its ergonomic advantages and ease of use, highlighting that it transcends the stereotypes of what it is used for.
Myth 1: The Mall Grab is Only for Posers
The myth that only posers or non-serious skateboarders use the mall grab is among the most prevalent in the skating community. Skateboarders are said to carry their boards by the deck, demonstrating their familiarity with skate culture through this stereotype, based on the idea that genuine skateboarders should carry their boards by the deck.
However, this myth fails to consider the practicality and comfort of the mall grab skateboard, especially if you are a beginner who may still need to be comfortable carrying your board using other methods.
Myth 2: The Mall Grab Damages Your Trucks
It is also commonly believed that using the mall grab can damage your trucks, which is not true. As a result of this method of transportation, many critics argue that the pressure exerted on the trucks may cause them to bend or suffer other forms of damage. Even though there is some truth to this concern, it is often overstated and exaggerated.
There is no doubt that modern skateboard trucks are designed to withstand significant stress and pressure, making them more durable than many people think they are. No matter how you carry your skateboard, regular maintenance and proper usage will ensure that your skateboard trucks remain in good shape for as long as possible.
Myth 3: Serious Skaters Never Mall Grab
Skaters who are serious or professional simply do not use the mall grab regularly, which is untrue. It has been observed that many professional skateboarders have resorted to this method when they are off the ramps and in casual settings. In the skateboarding community, there is a perception that the mall grab skateboard is a sign of skill or seriousness in the sport.
However, that is a myth perpetuated by elitist attitudes within the community. How one carries their skateboard has little bearing on whether or not they are good at the sport or how dedicated they are to it.
Practical Advantages of the Mall Grab Skateboard
There are several practical advantages to the mall grab despite its controversial reputation. The first benefit is that it is often more comfortable to skate with, especially for those who skate with larger or heavier boards. In addition to the mall grab being able to distribute weight more evenly, it can also reduce the strain on your wrists and arms. Furthermore, it provides a secure grip, reducing the risk of dropping the board in crowded or busy environments because it gives a good grip to the board.
Cultural Significance and Evolution
In the development of skateboarding as a subculture, the disdain for the mall grab has its roots in the evolution of skateboarding as a subculture. As far as skateboarding is concerned, it has always been an activity that emphasizes individuality and authenticity, with certain practices being regarded as more authentic or ‘core’ than others.
It was an easy target for those looking to assert their insider status by taking advantage of the mall grab Skateboard, which is associated with newcomers and commercialized settings. As skateboarding continues to evolve and become more inclusive, these cultural gatekeeping practices are slowly losing their power as skateboarding evolves and becomes more accessible.
Breaking Down Barriers
There is no doubt that skateboarding is a diverse world where barriers can be broken down by challenging misconceptions, including the misconceptions surrounding the Mall Grab Skateboard. Understanding this grip’s practical benefits and origins will help us move past outdated stereotypes and recognize that every skater has a unique approach to skating. Providing comfort, stability, and quick maneuverability, Mall Grab Skateboard is an excellent choice for skaters of all levels, regardless of their skill level.
A positive attitude towards inclusion is essential to fostering the skateboarding community’s growth and development, fostering creativity, and promoting individuality. As a result of tearing down these barriers, skaters are not only able to promote unity among themselves but also enrich the culture with a variety of approaches and perspectives. Ride confidently, regardless of how you hold your board, no matter what style you adopt.
Conclusion – Embrace Your Style
As one of the most popular sports in the world, skateboarding is all about individual style and comfort. Mall Grab Skateboard is a grip often misunderstood and unfairly criticized by skaters of all levels, including beginners. Still, it offers a variety of advantages to skaters of all levels.
It would help if you chose the grip that works best for you, whether that is a relaxed grip that offers ergonomic advantages or quick maneuverability that will enable you to perform dynamic tricks that are quick and precise. Skateboarding is about self-expression and making choices based on your preferences.
The ability to embrace different skating techniques, including Mall Grab, allows you to develop your unique style and enhance the overall skating experience. It is important not to be swayed by stereotypes or misconceptions when making decisions but to focus on what feels right for you and have fun with it. It is important to keep in mind that skateboarding is all about freedom and creativity.
FAQs – The Truth About the Mall Grab Skateboard
Is there a reason why some skateboarders dislike the mall grab so much?
It is common for skateboarders to view the mall grab as a sign of inexperience or a lack of authenticity. This perception is rooted in skate culture, where certain practices are seen as more authentic or “core” than others because of their origins in skate culture.
Does carrying a skateboard by the trucks damage them in any way?
Although there is some concern that the mall grab will damage skateboard trucks, this is often overstated. As long as the skateboard trucks are well maintained and designed to be durable, they can withstand the pressure of being carried this way.
Do professional skateboarders have access to mall grabs?
Undoubtedly, many professional skateboarders use the mall grab, particularly in a casual environment. It is a myth that the mall grab is a symbol of skill or seriousness and is the mark of a serious person.
In your opinion, what are the advantages of the mall grab?
It may be more comfortable and practical to use the mall grab rather than a mall grab, especially if you have a larger or heavier board. As a result, your board will be more balanced and have a more secure grip, which will reduce the risk of dropping the board in crowded areas.
Does the disdain for mall grabs change as time passes?
As skateboarding becomes more inclusive, the cultural gatekeeping that exists around practices like mall grabbing diminishes. As a result, the focus shifts from the individual’s comfort to the individual’s expression.