Last Saturday, we attended the Vans Shop Riot at the Pinbowl DIY Skatepark, where the national qualifiers took place. Each participating skate shop fielded four skaters from their team to compete for the coveted top prize and a spot in the international final. Claiming first place was Eight Ball, a skate shop from Bassano del Grappa, which will represent Italy in the European Grand Final set for February. But the Vans Shop Riot was more than just a competition: at Pinbowl DIY, we fully immersed ourselves in the authentic skateboarding culture, meeting many of the competing skaters and capturing unique moments, alongside an enthusiastic crowd that followed every stage of the contest. Find out more in our exclusive coverage.
After a two-hour open practice session to let the athletes warm up, the event officially kicked off at 2 PM with the Team Contest. Each team, composed of four riders, had two minutes to land as many tricks and combos as possible within the main skate park. Performances were judged not only on technical difficulty but also on originality, attitude, and teamwork, with most teams showcasing coordinated outfits and synchronized tricks to impress the panel.
Next, the four Team Challenges added another layer of excitement to the competition. The first, the Vans AVE Picnic Table Contest, tested riders’ creativity and endurance, while the Death Race turned the park into a heart-pounding track. Among the most surprising challenges was the Wheel of Fortune, where teams had to complete tricks randomly assigned by a spinning wheel, and the hilarious Waffle Eating Contest, which provided a moment of lighthearted fun for the audience.
As mentioned, Eight Ball from Bassano del Grappa dominated both the Team Contest and several challenges. Second and third places went to East Wind from Lignano Sabbiadoro and Frisco Shop from Brescia, respectively.
Once again, the Vans Shop Riot proved that skateboarding is much more than a sport: it’s a lifestyle and a universal language that connects athletes and fans through a shared passion. And our photos are here to prove it.
ph. courtesy Andrés Juan Suarez
