About

Shockwaves Skateboards opened it's doors 25 YEARS ago in 1992 as Bloomington Normals only shop devoted to providing pro quality equipment to local enthusiasts. It originally was located on north Main Street near Wesleyan and after a year there, we relocated to downtown Bloomington. It now is near ISU in uptown Normal

Through the years we have supported the scene by hosting touring skater teams, sponsoring competitions and lobbying for the building of our local skate parks!

Becky Williams got the suggestion from her son (in high school at the time) and after speaking with local skaters it seemed like a good idea! Skateboarding has been popular since the late fifties/early sixties and arguably became even more popular since we've opened our doors. We're not taking ALL the credit mind you, maybe just good timing! Her son collected GI Joes and so she took the name from one his favorite figures, "SHOCKWAVE" it seemed to fit.

SHOCKWAVES is operated by skateboarders, as opposed to mall chains that employ people who only know about fashion. Our employees are here to offer knowledgeable service, opinionated expertise, and genuine advise at any time, without being sullen or unfriendly to those who might know less than others.

Buying products from the skateboarder's perspective means we always steer towards SKATER-OWNED/Local brands, but we also always carry price-pointed Mini-Logo skateboards for those in need. We will always try and cater to individual needs, so ASK US FOR ANY REQUESTS, but otherwise, we'll continue to buy our favorite skater's brands/whatever makes us laugh.

We also sell shirts and sweatshirts from brands like Thrasher and Good Worth & co, as well as, literally, the best collection of stickers for 50 miles. We try to offer something for everyone, whether on not they skateboard, so long as skateboarders make the money so they can continue to support skateboarding in an endless cycle!