Ensuring the outdoor benches you choose are not used for skateboarding is a common concern for property managers, park planners, and community designers. Skateboarding, while a legitimate sport, can cause significant damage to public seating, leading to costly repairs, shortened furniture lifespan, and potential safety hazards. The key to prevention lies in proactive design selection and strategic installation.
First, focus on inherently deterrent designs. Modern "anti-skate" or "skate-stopper" benches are engineered to eliminate usable edges and smooth surfaces. Look for benches with built-in metal ridges or knobs along the seat edges and arms. These are often referred to as "skate deterrents" and make grinding—a fundamental skateboarding trick—virtually impossible. Benches with sloped, curved, or heavily textured seating surfaces also remove the flat, ledged profile that skateboarders seek.
Material choice is equally crucial. While durable, classic materials like smooth stone or finished wood can still offer tempting surfaces. Opt for perforated or patterned metal seats, reinforced concrete with an aggregate finish, or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in a textured finish. These materials are not only resistant to skateboard wax and abrasion but also less appealing for board slides.
Strategic installation and environment play a supporting role. Consider anchoring benches in landscaped areas or soft ground cover rather than on expansive, smooth concrete pads. Installing benches with their backs against a wall, planter, or other structure removes access to one side. Increasing general visibility by placing benches in well-lit, high-traffic areas can also naturally deter misuse.
Finally, integrate clear signage and community engagement. Posting respectful but firm signs outlining rules helps set expectations. For public spaces, providing a dedicated skate park nearby offers a positive alternative, channeling the activity to an appropriate location.
By combining thoughtful product selection with smart placement, you can invest in outdoor benches that serve their primary purpose—providing comfortable, lasting seating for the community—without becoming an unintended skate spot. This approach protects your investment and maintains a welcoming environment for all.