Chicago, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and diverse neighborhoods, also boasts a thriving skateboarding scene. From seasoned pros to weekend warriors, skaters of all levels find their home in the Windy City. But finding the right skate shop can be tricky. This guide highlights eleven of the best skate shops in Chicago, offering a mix of styles, brands, and community vibes to cater to every skater's needs. We'll explore what makes each shop unique and help you find the perfect place to get your next deck, wheels, or just some solid advice.
Top Chicago Skate Shops: A Deep Dive
Finding the right skate shop is more than just finding the right gear; it's about finding a community. These shops aren't just retailers; they're hubs for skaters, offering a place to connect, learn, and share the passion for skateboarding.
1. Urban Outfitters (Multiple Locations)
While a large national chain, Urban Outfitters often stocks a surprisingly good selection of skate decks and apparel from popular brands like Vans and Adidas. This makes them a convenient option for those looking for a broader range of products beyond strictly skate-specific items. They are not known for their deep expertise in skateboarding, however.
Pros: Wide variety of brands and styles, convenient locations. Cons: May lack specialized skate knowledge, higher prices than smaller, dedicated shops.
2. Chicago Skates (Lincoln Park)
Chicago Skates is a smaller, independent shop known for its friendly staff and commitment to the local skating community. They carry a curated selection of high-quality decks, trucks, wheels, and apparel, focusing on supporting both established and up-and-coming brands. Their expertise lies in providing personalized advice, making them a great choice for skaters of all levels.
Pros: Expert staff, focus on local brands, strong community ties. Cons: Smaller selection compared to larger stores, may not carry every brand.
3. Momentum Boardshop (Wicker Park)
Momentum Boardshop in Wicker Park is a long-standing institution in the Chicago skate scene. Known for their knowledgeable staff and commitment to supporting local skaters, Momentum stocks a wide range of boards, trucks, wheels, and apparel from both established and lesser-known brands. They often host events and workshops, strengthening their community focus.
Pros: Wide selection, knowledgeable staff, strong community involvement. Cons: Can get busy, prices reflect quality and brand selection.
4. 5150 Skate Shop (Lakeview)
5150 Skate Shop stands out for its eclectic mix of skate gear and street-wear. Beyond the standard skate essentials, they offer a unique selection of clothing and accessories, blending skate culture with other urban styles. This makes them a great option for those who appreciate a more diverse range of products and aesthetics.
Pros: Unique product mix, strong fashion element. Cons: Might not have the broadest range of skate-specific equipment.
5. Skateshop (Logan Square)
Skateshop in Logan Square maintains a loyal following, due to their commitment to quality and excellent customer service. Their selection, while perhaps not as extensive as larger shops, is carefully curated, focusing on brands known for their durability and performance. Their staff is widely praised for their friendliness and willingness to help skaters find the perfect gear.
Pros: Excellent customer service, focus on quality brands. Cons: Smaller selection, may not be as price-competitive.
6. Burnside Skatepark (Burnside)
While not a traditional skate shop, Burnside Skatepark is a legendary spot in Chicago, and the associated shop offers essential skate supplies and repairs. The atmosphere here is truly unique, reflecting the raw energy and history of the park itself. It's a must-visit for any serious skater in Chicago.
Pros: Iconic location, unique atmosphere, essential skate supplies. Cons: Limited selection, primarily focused on supplies, not a wide apparel range.
7. The Boardroom (Various Locations)
The Boardroom provides a good selection of boards, shoes, and apparel at competitive prices. Their multiple locations add to their convenience factor. However, this may mean that staff expertise can vary.
Pros: Multiple locations, affordable prices. Cons: Variable staff knowledge, broader range means less specialization.
8. Active Ride Shop (Lincoln Park)
Active Ride Shop offers a range of action sports gear, including skateboarding. It's a good option if you're also into other activities like snowboarding or BMX.
Pros: Broad range of action sports equipment. Cons: May lack specialized skate knowledge compared to dedicated skate shops.
9. Empire Skate (West Loop)
Empire Skate is a smaller shop focusing on a unique selection of brands and apparel. Their dedication to customer service is often highlighted by returning customers.
Pros: Unique brand selection, dedicated customer service. Cons: May have a more limited selection of essential items compared to larger shops.
10. Redline Skateshop (multiple locations)
Redline provides various skate products, shoes, and apparel across their locations. This offers accessibility to different parts of the city.
Pros: Multiple convenient locations, good selection. Cons: May not have the most specialized knowledge compared to smaller shops.
11. Primitive Skate Shop (Online)
While not a brick-and-mortar store, Primitive Skate Shop offers a robust online selection of gear and apparel. It's a solid option for those who prefer shopping from home or want access to a broader inventory.
Pros: Wide online selection, convenient home delivery. Cons: Lack of in-person advice and the ability to try products before purchasing.
Choosing the Right Skate Shop for You
The best skate shop in Chicago depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Location: Choose a shop convenient to your home or regular skating spots.
- Selection: Do you need a wide range of brands and styles, or are you looking for something more specialized?
- Price: Some shops offer more competitive pricing than others.
- Community: Do you value the social aspect of a skate shop, and its involvement in the local scene?
- Staff Expertise: The knowledge and helpfulness of the staff can make a huge difference in your shopping experience.
By considering these factors, you can find the perfect Chicago skate shop to meet your needs and fuel your passion for skateboarding. Happy skating!
