Paul Schmitt tells us how math matters in skateboarding - Skateboard Education Summit 2021

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Paul Schmidt, a renowned skateboarding professor, shares insights into the history and science of skateboarding. He discusses the importance of skateboard design, including wheel size and board dimensions, in relation to performance and personal preference. With anecdotes from his experiences, including an injury at a Beijing skatepark and his skateboard education program, 'Create Escape,' Paul emphasizes the role of math in skateboarding and the adaptability of skaters. The dialogue also touches on the evolution of skateboarding, the impact of marketing on board sizes, and the challenges of custom board manufacturing.

Takeaways

• 😀 Paul Schmidt, a professor of skateboarding, is featured in the video discussing his experiences and insights on skateboarding.
• 🎬 The last time Paul was seen was in 2018, watching Tony Alva's movie, highlighting the emotional and historical significance of skateboarding events.
• 🛹 Paul shares a story about an incident in Beijing where he was injured skateboarding, and Tony Hawk helped him, showcasing the camaraderie in the skateboarding community.
• 🔢 The video emphasizes the importance of 'Math Matters' in skateboarding, suggesting that mathematical principles can help understand and improve skateboarding techniques.
• 🛍️ Paul discusses the concept of 'Create Escape', an educational program that combines skateboarding with STEM education, suitable for schools and camps.
• 📏 Paul explains the significance of skateboard dimensions, particularly wheelbase, and how they affect performance, suggesting that the right size matters for different skill levels.
• 🚶‍♂️ Paul mentions his 'Kratos Gate Height Chart', a tool he developed to help determine the appropriate skateboard size based on a skater's height.
• 🛠️ The video touches on the technical aspects of skateboard construction, such as the use of laminated plywood and the importance of concave design for strength and performance.
• 💬 Paul and others discuss the evolution of skateboard design, including changes in wheel size and board shape, and how these affect the riding experience.
• 🏫 The video concludes with a discussion on how skateboarding can be integrated into educational curriculums, emphasizing the value of hands-on learning and creativity.

Q & A

What was the significance of the event in 2018 where Paul Schmidt and the interviewee were eating popcorn together?

The event was significant because they were watching Tony Alva's movie, which was an emotional and cool experience for them as they were in the presence of one of skateboarding's most famous personalities.

What happened to Paul Schmidt during the opening of the Woodward park in Beijing in 2010?

Paul Schmidt had an accident where he caught an edge while doing a bowl transfer on a subvert wall, splitting his head open even with his helmet on. Tony Hawk saw the incident, helped by ripping off his shirt to wrap around Paul's head, and likely assisted in getting him to the hospital.

What is the importance of the 'escape math matters' hashtag mentioned in the script?

The hashtag 'escape math matters' was created by Paul Schmidt to highlight the importance of mathematics in skateboarding, such as in building skate parks and understanding the physics behind skateboarding tricks. It was used to tag related posts on Instagram.

What is the 'Kratos Gate Height Chart' and how does it relate to skateboarding?

The 'Kratos Gate Height Chart' is a tool developed by Paul Schmidt to help determine the appropriate skateboard size based on a person's height. It is part of his 'Create Escape' program and aims to optimize the skateboarding experience by matching the board size to the rider's body dimensions.

How did Paul Schmidt's 'Create Escape' program start and what is its purpose?

The 'Create Escape' program started in the late 90s and was initially developed for schools. Its purpose is to provide an educational curriculum that combines skateboarding with STEM/STEAM subjects, allowing students to learn about art, math, and science through the context of skateboarding.

What is the significance of the wheelbase in skateboarding and how does it affect a skater's performance?

The wheelbase of a skateboard, measured from truck hole to truck hole, affects the skater's balance, control, and the ability to perform tricks. A larger wheelbase can provide more stability but may hinder certain tricks, while a smaller wheelbase can make tricks easier but may be less stable.

Why did Paul Schmidt choose to focus on the 'Create Escape' program within educational settings rather than skate parks?

Paul Schmidt found that the 'Create Escape' program was taken more seriously in a classroom setting than in a skate park, where distractions are more prevalent. The educational environment allows for a more focused learning experience about skateboarding and related subjects.

What is the role of perception in skateboarding and how does it relate to the concept of 'math matters'?

Perception in skateboarding is crucial as it can influence how a skater approaches and performs tricks. 'Math matters' because it provides a framework for understanding the physical principles at play, helping skaters to better predict and adapt to the outcomes of their actions on the skateboard.

What are some factors that contribute to the rising costs of skateboard manufacturing?

The rising costs of skateboard manufacturing are influenced by increased costs of raw materials, production, and overall inflation. These factors are causing retail prices to creep up, affecting the profitability of skateboard production.

How does Paul Schmidt approach the customization of skateboards for individuals with specific needs, such as taller skaters?

Paul Schmidt suggests that individuals with specific needs should seek out custom skateboard makers or DIY approaches. He acknowledges that large established brands may not cater to niche市场需求, making customization a more viable option.

What advice does Paul Schmidt give to those who want to improve their ollie height in skateboarding?

Paul Schmidt recommends using riser pads or bigger diameter wheels to increase the ollie height. This can change the leverage and the time it takes for the tail to hit the ground, allowing for a higher ollie, although it may reduce control.