Do you ever wonder why skaters wear such big, baggy pants? You might have seen them on the streets or at a skatepark, with their oversized jeans or cargo pants that seem to be falling off. But have you ever stopped and thought about why they choose to dress this way?
Well, wonder no more! In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind this unique fashion choice among skaters and how it ties into the overall skate culture. So, sit back and get ready to learn about the style that has become synonymous with skating.
The History of Skater Pants
To understand why skaters wear big pants, we need to take a trip back in time to the birth of skateboarding in the 1950s. During this period, skateboarding was seen as an underground activity that was not widely accepted by society. As a result, skaters often found themselves being chased out of public spaces and were looked down upon.
In response to this rejection, skaters started creating their own fashion style that would set them apart from mainstream society. At the time, the popular trend in pants was tight-fitting, bell-bottomed jeans. So, naturally, skaters went against the norm and opted for loose-fitting, straight-legged pants.
This style not only allowed them to express their rebellion against societal norms but also served a practical purpose on the skateboard. The baggy pants gave skaters more room to move and helped keep them cool while performing tricks in hot weather.
The Evolution of Skater Pants and the Skateboarding Culture
As time went on, the underground skateboarding culture began to permeate into the mainstream. The rebellious spirit and unique style of skaters caught the attention of fashion designers and brands, leading to the commercialization of their clothing style. Skater pants started appearing in popular retail stores, and the big pants became a symbol of the skating culture rather than just a functional garment.
Moreover, the rise in skateboarding popularity brought along with it a common question: how much is a good skateboard? This question hinted towards a growing interest in the sport, not just from a fashion perspective but from an athletic one too. The baggy pants and the skateboard became interconnected, each enhancing the other’s image, and the skateboard’s cost and quality became as significant as the style of the pants worn while riding it.
The Rise of Skate Culture
As skateboarding gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, so did the baggy pants trend. Skaters started to create their own subculture that was centered around their unique style and passion for skateboarding.
The fashion choices of skaters not only reflected their rebellious nature but also acted as a form of self-expression. The baggy pants became a symbol of skate culture and were worn with pride by skaters all over the world.
Practicality on the Board
Aside from being a fashion statement, big pants also serve a practical purpose when it comes to skating. Skaters need to have freedom of movement and flexibility on their board, and tight-fitting clothes can restrict that.
The loose-fitting nature of big pants allows skaters to comfortably move their legs and perform tricks without any limitations. They also protect the skater’s legs from scrapes and bruises that can occur while skating.
Additionally, baggy pants often have larger pockets which are useful for storing small items like keys or a phone while skating. This eliminates the need for carrying a bag or wearing a belt, making it easier for skaters to move around freely.
The Skateboarding Aesthetic
Skate culture has always been about self-expression and individualism, and the unique fashion choices of skaters are no exception. Big pants have become an essential part of the skateboarding aesthetic, with many brands designing their own versions specifically for skaters.
From the classic black and white checkered Vans pants to colorful cargo pants, skaters have a wide range of options to choose from that suit their personal style. The baggy pants also allow for layering, making it easy to add a hoodie or jacket on top for a complete skateboarding look.
Breaking Stereotypes
Aside from practicality, fashion has always been used as a way to break stereotypes and challenge societal norms. Skaters wearing big pants is a perfect example of this.
In the past, baggy pants were often associated with criminal activity or gang culture. By choosing to wear them, skaters have redefined their meaning and shown that these stereotypes are just societal constructs.
Skateboarding has also been seen as a male-dominated activity, but the popularity of baggy pants among female skaters has proven that it’s a sport for everyone regardless of gender.
The Influence on Other Sports
The baggy pants trend has not only influenced fashion within skateboarding but also in other sports. BMX riders, snowboarders, and even some surfers have adopted the big pants style for its practicality and rebellious aesthetic.
In fact, many fashion trends that originated in skate culture have made their way into mainstream fashion. From graphic tees to beanies and vans shoes, the streetwear style of skaters has become a global trend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do all skaters wear big pants?
A: No, not all skaters choose to wear big pants. It’s a personal fashion choice and some skaters may prefer fitted clothing while others may opt for baggier styles.
Q: Are big pants necessary for skateboarding?
A: No, they are not a necessity but they do offer practical benefits such as freedom of movement and protection from scrapes.
Q: Can anyone wear big pants or is it reserved for skaters only?
A: Anyone can wear big pants, regardless of whether they skate or not. Fashion has no boundaries and should be freely expressed.
Q: Are there any downsides to wearing big pants while skating?
A: Some skaters may find that the loose fit can sometimes get in the way of their movements, but this varies from person to person.
Q: Will big pants ever go out of style in skate culture?
A: Fashion is constantly evolving, but the rebellious nature and practicality of big pants make them a staple in skate fashion that is unlikely to fade away anytime soon.
Conclusion
So, why do skaters wear big pants? The answer lies in the rich history of skate culture and the rebellious, self-expressive nature of the sport. Big pants offer practical benefits on the skateboard, while also making a fashion statement and breaking stereotypes.
Whether you’re a skater or just appreciate the unique style, there’s no denying that big pants have become an integral part of skateboarding and will continue to be a staple in the sport for years to come. What is a pro size skateboard? Well, just like baggy pants in the skating world, it’s a choice that reflects a skater’s unique style and preferences. So next time you see a skater in baggy pants, just remember that there’s more to their fashion choice than meets the eye. So why not embrace your rebellious side and rock a pair of big pants yourself? After all, skating is all about breaking the rules and being true to yourself.