Skater Spotlight: Christian, 53

This is the first in our new Skateboarding Heroes series. You’ll be seeing more of these because, frankly, there are loads of you out there. Legends. Lifers. People getting back on the board after years away. People starting for the first time in their thirties, forties, fifties and beyond.

Skating means something different to all of us. But at its core, it’s movement, it’s presence, and for a lot of us, it’s survival.

If you’ve got a story worth telling, or know someone who does, drop us a line at team@ripindustries.co.uk. We’d love to feature you.

First up: meet Christian (IG Link). 

Christian’s Story

Christian Parris started skating in the mid-eighties. He was just a kid then, hooked by a graphic on the bottom of a deck and the sound of wheels hitting concrete. He grew up in the scene, rode through the golden age of vert, then stepped away in the nineties when the ramps disappeared and real life took over.

Fast forward to 2020. His daughter wanted to try skating, so he dusted off his old instincts and rolled out to the park with her. What happened next? He fell back in love with it. Not for the adrenaline, but for the calm. Not to prove anything, but to feel something.

He hasn’t stopped since. 

Where He Rides

These days, Christian rides at BaySixty6 in West London. It’s local, it’s gritty, and it’s where he feels most at home.

His setup is simple but built for power and flow:

• Deck: Welcome Chris Milker 9.5
• Trucks: Indy 159s
• Wheels: Spitfire 54mm, 99a

Why He Still Skates

We asked him what keeps him coming back to it. His answer was simple

“It clears my mind.”

No performance. No ego. Just the act of showing up, moving, balancing, falling, and trying again. For Christian, skating is less about tricks and more about presence.

“It makes me forget about everything. Being on the board makes the world seem a better place.”

That’s not just poetic. That’s neuroscience in motion. When you skate, you stimulate your vestibular system - the part of your brain responsible for balance, coordination and emotional regulation. It lights up the same regions that help you manage stress, stay focused, and feel connected to the moment.

Skating is more than movement. It’s mental reset. And for Christian, it’s been a crucial part of feeling steady through life’s ups and downs.

Favourite Tricks and Sticking Points

He’s still got a solid trick list. His favourite right now?

“Backside 5-0 grinds.”

The one that still rattles his brain?

“Alley-oop 5-0s.”

Even after all these years, he’s still learning. Still progressing. Still pushing.

The Scene Has Changed

Back in the eighties, skate culture was harsh. You had to prove yourself. There wasn’t much room for messing up or taking it slow. But now?

“It’s a lot more supportive. Back in the day it was brutal. Maybe the older skaters have helped change that.”

He’s part of that shift himself. One of the people who shows up and makes space for others. Encourages the newer heads. Offers advice. Cheers when someone lands their first drop-in.

He’s got no time for ego.

“The best skater at the skatepark is the one enjoying themselves the most.”

Best Session in a While

Recently, Christian skated with two mates he hadn’t seen in thirty years. They didn’t film anything. They didn’t plan a trick list. They just turned up, skated, and laughed.

That was enough.

For Anyone Thinking It’s Too Late

His advice is simple and solid.

“Don’t worry about tricks. Just pick up a board and enjoy yourself.”

 

“Everyone had to start somewhere. Ask for help if you need it. Proper skaters will always be stoked for you when you land something new.”

 

“Take a lesson if it helps. But don’t let fear or judgement stop you.”

What Keeps Him Coming Back?

The feeling. The flow. The crew.

“The enjoyment factor. And the guys I skate with.”

That’s it. That’s the spark. That’s why this series exists.

What Skating Means Now

We asked him what skateboarding means to him these days.

“Everything.”

Still Pushing. Still Grounded.

This is what a skateboarding hero looks like. Not loud. Not famous. Just consistent. Quietly showing up and keeping it together, one push at a time.

If skating helps you too - mentally, physically, emotionally - you’re not alone. And if you’re struggling off the board, CALM is always there.

Head to www.thecalmzone.net for free, confidential support.

Want to be featured in our next Skater Spotlight? Got a story that deserves the light? We’d be stoked to hear from you!

Email us at team@ripindustries.co.uk  

We’re just getting started.