The world of skateboarding, often associated with raw energy, rebellious spirit, and a DIY ethos, might seem a far cry from the meticulously crafted world of high fashion. Yet, the desire for self-expression and individuality transcends genre, and it's here that a surprising intersection occurs: Burberry Skate Griptape. While Burberry itself doesn't officially manufacture or endorse skate griptape branded with its iconic check, the allure of a luxury brand gracing the surface of a skateboard is undeniable, leading to custom creations and a fascinating exploration of aesthetics within the skate community. This article delves into the concept of Burberry skate griptape, exploring its appeal, the practical considerations of griptape itself, and how skaters can achieve a personalized, high-end look on their boards.
The Allure of Luxury on Asphalt: Why Burberry Skate Griptape?
The fascination with Burberry skate griptape stems from a few key factors:burberry skate griptape
* Status and Expression: Skateboarding is inherently about self-expression. The board, the tricks, the style – it all contributes to a skater's unique identity. Incorporating a high-end brand like Burberry, even unofficially, allows skaters to project an image of sophistication and discerning taste alongside their street credibility. It's a statement that says, "I appreciate quality and luxury, even in the context of a raw and rugged activity."
* Irony and Subversion: The juxtaposition of a luxury brand, traditionally associated with exclusivity and high society, with the gritty, often rebellious world of skateboarding creates a sense of irony and subversion. It's a playful challenge to the established norms of both worlds, highlighting the skater's willingness to break boundaries and redefine expectations.
* Aesthetic Appeal: The Burberry check pattern is instantly recognizable and aesthetically pleasing to many. Its clean lines, neutral colors (primarily beige, black, and red), and timeless design make it a visually appealing addition to a skateboard deck. The pattern can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the otherwise functional and often heavily worn surface.
* Customization and Uniqueness: Since official Burberry griptape doesn't exist, any iteration is inherently a custom creation. This allows skaters to personalize their boards in a truly unique way, setting them apart from the crowd and showcasing their individual style.
Understanding Skateboard Griptape: The Foundation of Control
Before diving deeper into the aesthetics of Burberry-inspired designs, it's crucial to understand the fundamental role of griptape in skateboarding. Griptape, the sandpaper-like material applied to the top of a skateboard deck, is essential for providing traction and control. Without it, executing even the most basic maneuvers would be nearly impossible.
* The Science of Grip: Griptape is typically made from silicon carbide grit adhered to a sticky backing. The grit provides the necessary friction to keep the skater's shoes firmly planted on the board, allowing them to apply pressure and execute tricks with precision. The higher the grit number, the coarser the texture and the greater the grip.
* Essential for Control: Griptape's primary function is to provide the skater with a reliable connection to the board. This connection is crucial for:
* Ollies: The foundation of almost all street skateboarding tricks, the ollie relies heavily on griptape to "pop" the board into the air. The skater needs to be able to generate upward force by sliding their foot along the griptape.
* Kickflips and Heelflips: These tricks involve flipping the board in the air. Griptape allows the skater to maintain contact with the board during the flip and land with control.
* Grinding and Sliding: When grinding on rails or ledges, griptape helps the skater maintain balance and control. It also provides a surface for the skater to lock into the grind.
* General Riding: Even for simply cruising around, griptape provides the necessary traction to prevent slipping and ensure a smooth and controlled ride.
* Types of Griptape: While the basic principle remains the same, griptape comes in various types and styles:
* Standard Griptape: This is the most common type of griptape, offering a reliable level of grip for all types of skateboarding. Brands like Jessup, Mob Grip, and Grizzly are well-known for their quality standard griptape.
* Perforated Griptape: This type of griptape features small holes that allow air to escape during application, preventing air bubbles from forming.
* Colored Griptape: Griptape is available in a wide range of colors, allowing skaters to customize the look of their boards.
* Graphic Griptape: Some griptape features pre-printed graphics, adding another layer of personalization.
* Custom Griptape: Many companies offer custom griptape printing services, allowing skaters to create unique designs.
Achieving the Burberry Look: Customization Options
Since official Burberry griptape is unavailable, skaters looking to achieve this aesthetic must rely on custom solutions. Here are a few methods: