TO LIVE AND DIY IN AZ

WORDS by RAD PINCKARD // PHOTOS by JAMIE COGGINS

Arizona is best known for record breaking heat, racist politicians, and the color beige. Honorable mentions also include some of the highest numbers of COVID-19 cases in the world, and pretty sunsets! But the only thing sicker than the Corona virus is our stalwart, persevering community of skateboarding lunatics. Most of the world avoids the Grand Canyon State like the plague during the summer months, and for good reason: going outside hurts. AZ skateboarders, however, refuse to let the triviality of 115+ degree weather and very serious risk of overheating/heat stroke hinder our right to play on our wooden wheeled playthings. “ This is the wild west.”“At least there’s no snow!” and “It’s a dry heat.” - are amongst some of the rally cries we use to vindicate our self destructive obsession. A large portion of our skaters play it safe by only skating early in the morning, or late at night when it’s only a brisk 105. But you’re not here to read about half-ass yellow-bellies. You want to hear about the salt of the earth foot soldiers who sacri ce blood, sweat, tears and SWEAT to contribute to our ever-growing DIY scene. The champions mixing quick-crete and slappin’ mud in one of the hottest places in the world for no reason but the love of skateboarding. Chris Gobber and Brandon Smith (aka: BK the Builder) are a couple of essential names that will always come up in a conversation about the Arizona DIY scene. They are directly responsible for some of the most unique and wildly fun concrete playgrounds I’ve ever had the pleasure of attempting to skate on. Whether it’s in a front yard, an abandoned parking lot, or just literally in the middle of the Sonoran desert, if these boys have a dream they will build it. Wheelbarrows, trowels, and lots of water at the ready, they, and many others, have brought our entire skateboarding community together, united to erect and relish countless spots that will live on in Arizona skateboard history long after some bastard city workers have them torn down. So next time you nd yourself in the Valley of The Sun, don’t bitch about the heat; stay hydrated, grab your board and go hunt for some hidden desert gems.