Sidewalk Surfer: The Visionary Skateboard Shop That Paved Its Own Path
Back in 1977, the streets echoed with the sounds of wheels on concrete as the skateboarding craze took over. However, for those looking to buy a skateboard, options were limited to local bicycle shops. But where most saw a challenge, Sandie Hamilton saw an opportunity. In todays Customer Feature, we explore Sidewalk Surfers legacy and Blankstyle’s support and involvement.
The Birth of Sidewalk Surfer
Enter Sidewalk Surfer, an idea born from Sandie’s visionary mind. She identified the gap in the market and took the bold step of opening a “skateboard only” shop, focusing solely on products that passionate skateboarders desired. The store initially occupied a modest 375-square-foot space, soon upgrading to a slightly roomier 425 square feet. But as the passion for skateboarding grew, so did Sidewalk Surfer.
A Journey Through Time and Space
Eight fruitful years later, with a burgeoning customer base, the store relocated to Hayden and Thomas, marking its first significant expansion. By 1992, the shop found its current home on Scottsdale Road. Through all these relocations, the essence and passion behind Sidewalk Surfer never wavered.
Transition and Legacy
While Sandie remains the proud owner of Sidewalk Surfer, she handed over the reins in 2005. Now, the store is helmed by the dynamic trio: Dave, Tim, and Keven. Their camaraderie and shared passion for skateboarding have made them an integral part of the Sidewalk Surfer family, almost as long-standing as the store itself.
45 Years and Counting
Celebrating an incredible 45-year journey, Sidewalk Surfer stands as a testament to resilience, passion, and the spirit of skateboarding. Their message to budding skateboard enthusiasts and hopeful entrepreneurs is clear: “As long as there is skateboarding, we’ll be here.”
Blankstyle and Sidewalk Surfer: A Partnership in Apparel
Since 2016, Sidewalk Surfer has collaborated with Blankstyle for their apparel needs. Among their latest acquisitions are some of Blankstyle’s finest offerings: the Tultex 202 Unisex Tee with a Tear-Away Tag (Pictured to the left in Burgundy), the Comfort Colors T-Shirts 1566 Garment-Dyed Sweatshirt, and the 0235TC Tultex Youth Fine Jersey Tee.
Lessons for Aspiring Apparel Brands
Sidewalk Surfer’s journey offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to start their own apparel brand. Recognize market gaps, stay adaptable, and always prioritize your community and passion over everything else. Partnerships, like the one with Blankstyle, can also play a crucial role in solidifying brand identity and ensuring quality.
In Conclusion
Sidewalk Surfer is more than just a store; it’s a legacy, a testament to what passion, vision, and persistence can achieve. As you embark on your own entrepreneurial journey in the apparel industry, let their story inspire and guide your path forward.