Who Builds Skateparks?

The recognized leader in the design & construction of action sports facilities, Spohn Ranch has built over 425 skateparks since 1993.  Offering full service design, construction and installation of concrete, composite and hybrid skateparks, Spohn Ranch leads the industry in selection and custom options.

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A Brief History of Skateparks

In the 1970's skateboarding became a major trend and many private parks were built. Most of these were concrete monsters with large snake-runs and bowls. This served the "surfing" style of skateboarding which was popular at the time.

When land values escalated and injury lawsuits increased, these parks were bulldozed and a generation of skaters lost their community spaces.

In the early 1990's, as the enormous Spohn Ranch-built half-pipes of the X-Games inspired a new generation to start skating, municipalities and other public agencies recognized the need to build public skateparks to serve an important segment of their athletic community.

In addition to concrete, the new breed of park includes composite equipment constructed of wood, steel, plastic and phenolic materials. These new parks also emphasize street elements such as staircases, ledges and benches.

The Future of Skateparks and Action Sports

How much longer the "street" style of skateboarding will reign is unclear. Encouraged by older skaters, many new riders are riding "transition" in bowls and mini-ramps.

While there's currently a battle among designers to create the most outrageous full-pipe, over-vert or deep bowl, these features serve a very small percentage of skaters.

Also affecting the future of skateparks will be such non-skater concerns as liability, land values and public funding.

Spohn Ranch Skateparks

Aaron Spohn and Spohn Ranch are proud to be part of the modern skatepark movement. Through our high-quality design, manufacturing and installation, we've made quality parks possible for cities across the country. While many of our competitors strain to build the lowest-quality product that still passes spec, we focus on creating successful skateparks that become positive community spaces.