Justin Marks is capitalizing on the thriving skateboarding culture in San Francisco.
With the recent transformation of United Nations Plaza into a dedicated skatepark, the city has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting its skate community.
Marks, owner of Low Key Skate Shop, is at the forefront of this movement.
Since the shop’s establishment in 2019, it has evolved into a multifaceted space that merges the vibrant Tenderloin art scene with skating culture.
Following his buyout of his former co-owner earlier this year, Marks has embraced the shop’s potential as a community hub.
The skatepark investment, which totaled $2 million, has not only legitimized skating in the area but has also attracted a growing number of skaters.
“The pandemic actually provided an opportunity,” Marks said. “Skaters were able to explore the city more freely when everything else was closed.”
Low Key Skate Shop occupies a modest space at 679 Geary St., just a few blocks from Union Square.
The shop features walls adorned with skateboard decks and vibrant artwork, while merchandise including sneakers, Thrasher magazines, flat-bill caps, patches, and pins is readily available.
One prominent display features a canvas by Oakland artist Chonto, known for depicting the unique essence of the Tenderloin.
Chonto’s smaller works also grace the shop, with a scheduled exhibition running until August 31, coinciding with the Tenderloin Art Walk.
In addition to being a skate shop owner, Marks is an accomplished artist and skatepark designer.
His previous work includes projects like Zion Plaza in Golden Gate Park and Playland at 43rd Avenue, the latter being a temporary skate venue that has since closed to make way for affordable housing for teachers.
Taking the reins of Low Key Skate Shop has encouraged Marks to strengthen its gallery presence and expand its screenprinting capabilities.
“I’ve developed the upstairs printing studio, which allows me to dedicate time to my designs,” he explained.
Marks’ creations often incorporate the word “Tenderloin” and involve collaborations with local artists, showcasing the area’s culture.
He frequently arrives at work in paint-stained khakis after producing custom shirts for neighborhood establishments like the Phoenix Hotel.
Despite these creative victories, Marks faces challenges as solo business ownership comes with its ups and downs.
“Emotions fluctuate; there are moments of euphoria and others that can feel rather depressing,” he shared.
One of the primary concerns is declining sales, which has proven difficult for local shops.
“Customers can easily find cheaper boards on sites like Amazon or eBay,” Marks noted.
Additionally, many skateboarding enthusiasts purchased their gear during the pandemic, making them less likely to spend again.
The challenges of maintaining cleanliness in the streets also impact customer foot traffic.
However, a diverse customer base — composed of loyal regulars and curious tourists — helps balance the shop’s fortunes.
Marks recounts his beginnings at Everyday Skate Shop, also located in the Tenderloin, where he started selling screenprinted shirts and skateboard decks as a teen.
His roots run deep in the local skating scene, and many of his childhood skate friends continue to support his shop and exhibit their artwork there.
For Marks, the most rewarding aspect of running Low Key Skate Shop is interacting with young customers embarking on their skating journeys.
“This is the start of their skate career. It means a lot,” he said, reflecting on the significance of skateboarding in his life.
“Skateboarding has saved many of my friends’ lives growing up in San Francisco.”
image source from：missionlocal
