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The Best Skateboard Shops In Baltimore

Whether you're just learning to ollie or perfecting your six-stair set, these local skateshops can supply every level of skater with both the necessities and the accessories, all at reasonable prices. Most importantly, every shop is proactively involved in the industry by making important contributions to growing the sport while improving the greater Baltimore community.

skateboarder in air park
Photo Credit: ThinkStock

Vú Skateboard Shop
7118 Harford Rd.
Baltimore, Md. 21234
(410) 254-2552
www.vuskateboardshop.com/

Hours: Mon to Sat – 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Sun – 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Click here for a calendar of events

This is the place to seek skateboarding's perception. Vú (pronounced "view") first opened its doors in June 2008, but professional skateboarder and owner Gary Smith has been active in the industry for more than 20 years. The shop quickly established its presence in the community by donating used boards to the less fortunate and is also known for giving live demonstrations at local schools and events. With strong skateboard-affiliated brands at affordable prices, the shop supplies everything from accessories and apparel such as hats and shoes to decks, trucks and wheels. Determined to bring the positive vibes of skateboarding to the streets, Vú educates boarders on the skate culture and lifestyle by hosting contests and camps, as well as offering lessons.

skateboarding girls
Photo Credit: ThinkStock

3 RIDESHOP
5918 York Rd.
Baltimore, Md. 21212
(410) 532-6113
www.3rideshop.com/

Hours: Mon to Sat – 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sun – 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Click here for a calendar of events

Pronounced Tres Rideshop, it's always a perk to buy a skateboard from skateboarders, knowing their expertise comes from selling what they ride. Serving skaters since 2001, 3 RIDESHOP provides an extensive collection of equipment including decks, trucks and wheels, as well as clothing and footwear to satisfy every taste. Brands include, but are not limited to: 5Boro, Alien Workshop, Almost, Blueprint, Deathwish, DGK, Habitat, SkateMental, Sk8Mafia,  Shut NYC, Thunder Trucks, Toy Machine, and Volcom. When not in the shop, the dedicated crew skates throughout the community.

Related: Best Skate Parks in Maryland

AVE. Skateboard Shop
843 West 36th St.
Baltimore, Md. 21211
(410) 235-0047
www.aveskateboardshop.com/

Hours: Mon to Thurs – 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., Fri and Sat – 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Sun – 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Albeit fairly new to the skate scene as of 2010, this skater-owned and operated shop has a special niche for the growing longboard community. Staff here appreciates longboards for their surf/snowboard qualities that make them great for slopes, hills and as a means of transportation. With Landyachtz, Bustin, Earthwing and Rayne longboards plus a variety of short boards, AVE. caters to the needs of street and ramp skaters.

skateboarding
Photo Credit: ThinkStock

A Way Of Life (AWOL) Skate Shop
816 Frederick Rd.
Catonsville, Md. 21228
(410) 788-2965
www.marylandskateboarding.com/

Hours: Mon to Sat – 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sun – 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

For those who understand that skating is more than just a hobby, AWOL Skate Shop supplies it all: decks, trucks and wheels, clothing and accessories. Also rider owned and operated, this skate shop sells a wide assortment of brands such as Chocolate, Flip, Krook3d, Osiris, Plan B, Powell, Speed Demons and Zoo York. AWOL is also one of the top 10 partners of Skatepark of Baltimore.

Related: Best Sporting Goods Stores In Baltimore

Fells Point Surf Co.
1631 Thames St.
Baltimore, Md. 21231
(410) 752-2490
www.fpsurfco.com/   

Hours: Mon to Thurs – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Fri and Sat – 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sun – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Fells Point Surf Co. may have brought the surf to Baltimore, but it's also committed to serving those who prefer pavement. Starting with just a small shop in May 2003, FP Surf Co. now has two locations. The biggest shop is located in the heart of Fells Point and the other at the Shops of Kenilworth in Towson, which is known for stocking a large selection of kids clothing. Also for sale are accessories, bearings, completes (a no assembly required skateboard), decks, longboards, trucks and wheels. No matter your personal style or skate experience, Fells' friendly staff is always happy to assist in finding the perfect board and gear. The shop will special order any item, set up a personal shopping appointment and gift wrap for special occasions.

CBS Baltimore Insider's Note: When making a special trip to visit, give a quick call first as skateshops are not confined to regular business hours and are respectful of holidays and inclement weather.

Keri Ann Beazell is a Baltimore writer following the latest developments in arts and culture, natural wonders, lifestyle and pets. She enjoys promoting thought-provoking discussions, education, new ideas and smiles among readers. Follow her on Twitter at @KtBlue16 and online at Examiner.com.

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