Moose Skateshop
Photography: Jacob Cramp
Moose Skateshop is an internationally recognised skater owned and operated business. Situated in the heart of Boscombe, their staff have an in-depth knowledge of skateboard culture and hardware maintenance. They support local brands and run many events for the community as well as stocking a range of goods from around the world. We talk to Darwin, the director of Moose Skateshop, to find out more about this popular hotspot.
Congratulations Darwin on your new shop opening! We'd love to know where it all began. How did Moose Skateshop come about?
Thank you very much, we are glad to be here! Moose was founded in 2017 as it was felt at the time that there was no central hub for the skateboard community in Bournemouth. Previous to opening the shop, I have lived in and travelled around many cities and learned that wherever the local scene flourishes, there is always a legitimate skate shop to support the skaters.
What shopping experience can we expect from Moose Skateshop?
First and foremost we hope to provide a relaxed and friendly environment regardless of customer demographics. In store you can find all necessary hardware requirements any skateboarder may seek. We can also offer advice, for total beginners all the way to experienced riders. We stock a wide range of apparel from the UK to the US, Japan to Australia and many European countries, so you can expect to find cool and rare designs. Aside from this, our walls are filled with local photography and art work so its a great place to check out what's going on in the Dorset scene.
Why did you choose Boscombe to be the home for your business?
Boscombe is a great location because it's situated minutes from the beach as well as being just down the road from Bournemouth's greatest skatepark, 'Kings'. I love how many independent businesses have been popping up here over the past few years, there's a great community.
What is the local skate scene like?
The local skate scene is stronger than ever and boasts a diverse range of gender, ethnicity and age. When you skate, it breaks down boundaries which might otherwise prevent certain people from socialising and learning from one another. We are currently working with the council to build a new public space in the town centre which skateboarders and non skateboarders can share together.
What advice would you give to someone looking to take up skateboarding?
There is no one correct pathway to take. Every person is an individual so different surroundings will be suited to your needs. One of the greatest lessons learned from skateboarding is how to pick yourself up and try again. Embrace failure as everyone has to fail in order to grow!
Do you have any advice for people who want to follow in your footsteps?
The best advice I can give at this point in my journey is as follows;
Be true to yourself.
Work hard.
Be polite and respectful.
Do your own thing and if you have genuine passion people will recognise it.
Thank you to my staff for all their hard work. Thank you to everyone who has supported Moose.
Address →
572, 574 Christchurch Road
Bournemouth
BH1 4BH
Opening hours →
Mon-Fri 11.00-18.00
Sat 10.00 - 17.00
Sun 10.00 - 16.00
