Street Jam Season is now upon us as summer gears into full force. These warm months mark the time where our community comes together to hang out, shred, and make a few memories in various cities across the country. With so many street jams happening the past couple years, I thought it might be prudent to put together a list of the Do’s and Don’ts of a Street Jam. So read on to find out how to make the most out of your street jam trips.Do: Come prepared.
Don’t: Come overprepared.
If this year is going to be your first time at a street jam, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind to be prepared. First, you’ll want to be sure you know how exactly you’re getting to the meetup spot of the jam- because the group waits for no one. Last thing you want is to miss half the jam because you didn’t make it to your train on time! Next, you’ll want to be ready to be pushing a lot- so pack light. It’s a good idea to bring a bag, but don’t stuff it full of spare parts/tools unless you really need em. Don’t forget water!
Do: Document as much as you want.
Don’t: Forget to have a good time!
It’s a given that you’ll be wanting to Instagram and Snapchat your favorite moments from the day- the insane rail trick that your favorite pro landed, the gap you pushed yourself to hit for the first time, or when your homie ate it going over a crack in the road. But 1. Don’t forget to live in the moment and experience things firsthand, not through a lens! And 2. Try not to get in the way of the “official” photographers and videographers. I know at the Chicago Jam there will be paid filmers and photographers capturing the event, so be careful not to get in their shot! It’s a stressful job documenting a street jam, and the video/pictures will end up even better if they don’t need to worry about finding an angle without a bunch of kids’ phones in the way.
Do: Shred hard!
Don’t: Be a snake.
It can be intimidating to hit spots during a street jam, especially at the bigger ones. A competitive environment can develop, and younger/inexperienced riders might be a little shy on hitting their feeble downside whip when pros are doing back noseblunt whips. However, everyone deserves to have a chance to shred, so go for it! But remember to take turns, don’t snake anyone, try not to immediately one up your homie, and be aware of your surroundings.
Do: Take time to appreciate the local culture.
Don’t: Wander too far from the group.
If you’re traveling far for a street jam, you should take some time out to experience what that city is all about. Don’t just eat at McDonald’s, try some of the local cuisine, or catch a glimpse of the local sights. I’d recommend waiting til after the jam is over to do so though, because you don’t want to get separated from the group. Cruising around the city with your crew after the jam is over, finding fresh spots and stacking clips is a must as well.
Looking for a street jam near you? Below are a few of the street jams coming up, let me know if there are more that should be added to the list!
