Skater and surfer, Simon is our skate reference. He started out surfing and even entered competitions, but quickly switched to skateboarding. In 2002/2004, he and a friend started skateboarding intensively, riding non-stop! Then he got the idea of starting small local competitions, and travelling all over France to take on the big skateparks in well-known cities.. Through his quality content, he'll take you on a journey to all the top surf and skate spots. @simonleaute
Where are you from?
I'm originally from the Vendée, and more precisely from Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile. It's a small commune just below Nantes.
What triggered it for you? How did you progress?
Where I really had a revelation was when I spent 1 year in Australia on the East coast. I discovered the bowl and skated with real professionals, notably Steve Cabalero and Bucky Lasek. We traveled all over town, looking for the best spots to do our best sessions. It really helped me progress, and when I got back to France I took part in the French championships. I was vice champion of France in 2012/2014/2015.
What does surfing and skateboarding mean to you?
Surfing is now part of my lifestyle. As soon as I can, I'm in the water. I'm always keen to improve and discover new spots. Surfing is a sport I like to practice on my own, although at first it's easier when you're surrounded by other people. Today, it's a real breath of fresh air when I get in the water, and I find that you're more focused when you're surfing alone.
Skateboarding was a niche, a group of friends and, above all, a great way of getting along. It's a sport that's very individual, but at the same time, whenever you need advice, everyone's very open to answering your questions.
What's your best advice on how to start skateboarding?
The key to skateboarding is frequency and supervision. When you're starting out, it's best to share as much as possible, and learn the right automatisms so you're ready to fall.
What are your top destinations?
In Europe, I'd say Barcelona, because the city has several spots that are highly conducive to skateboarding. Since then, it's been a virtuous circle: thanks to the infrastructure, a real community of skateboarders has sprung up. In France, Bordeaux is now the leading skate-friendly city, as the road surface is perfectly suited to skateboarding. Some skateboarders are even willing to move to take advantage of Darwin! Internationally, it's Los Angeles. It's like Biarritz/Hossegor over there, with all the sponsors and cameramen on site. For all skateboarders who want to break through, it's a crucial step.
