I grew up in the Philadelphia area, but have spent the last 10 years in Southern California, where skate/board shops are on every corner. I always love the little privately owned ""mom and pop"" type shops that SoCal is famous for. Where everyone in the store is a rider, and not only knowledgeable about the products, but also is experienced in every aspect of the industry (and have personal knowledge of the sport). I return to Philly often to visit family and friends, and this is the first and only time I have ever stepped into a shop with that same environment. I absolutely loved it! Everyone I encountered at Finalboarding was knowledgeable, experienced, friendly and down to earth. The owner is a former rider, and he insists on hiring employees that have a personal dedication and passion to skate and snowboarding. I wouldn't go anywhere else in the Philadelphia area (Especially the corporate, nametag mandatory shops in the mega-malls that are everywhere). Do yourself, and your kids, a favor and only visit Finalboarding when shopping for skate and snow boards and gear.
Pros: friendly and knowledgeable staff, reasonable prices, great selection, ample parking
Cons: they don't have a store in California!
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