Skateboarding has always been about getting up after slamming hard, dusting yourself off, and trying again.
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But according to Grant Yansura, the new wave of skaters isn't built the same way. The WKND Skateboards boss recently made it clear that he's not too impressed with what he’s seeing from younger skaters.
A clip made its way online showing a skater sizing up a massive handrail, psyching himself up for the trick, only to freeze under the pressure.
So much so that he literally pissed his pants. While some might see that as an unfortunate moment of stage fright, Yansura had a different take. His response? "This generation is soft."
This isn't the first time a veteran in skateboarding has called out the state of the culture.
As we previously reported, the last standing Piss Drunx Dustin Dollin voiced a similar opinion, saying, “Now skating be like everyone welcome like pre-school.”
Lately, people have been talking about how the overall feel of skateboarding has changed a lot over the years. The raw, rebellious mentality that used to be a huge part of it has shifted, and now there's a big focus on making it more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
Some folks think this is great and a positive change, but there are others, like Yansura and Dollin, who feel like something really important is missing now.
Of course, every generation has its critics. The same things were said about skaters in the early 2000s compared to the ‘90s, and the cycle continues.
But is there some truth to the claim? These days, young skaters have access to private parks, shoe deals before they even hit their twenties, and social media followings that allow them to build a career without ever stepping foot in a full-length video part.
Compare that to an era where respect was earned through sketchy missions, heavy slams, and a general disregard for personal safety.
Still, it’s worth considering whether the new generation is actually “soft” or if they just have a different approach.
Skaters today are throwing down some of the most technical tricks ever seen, and the level of precision is higher than it’s ever been. The difference might not be in skill but in attitude.
That being said, one thing remains the same: Skateboarding will always be about taking risks. Whether it’s annihilating down a twenty-stair or putting out a creative part, the heart of skating is still there. Maybe it's just evolving in ways that not everyone is ready to accept.