Shops / News
‘Legendary’ Bristol skate shop closes its doors after almost 30 years
With shutters down, shop floor cleared and signage removed, there is little left of what has been described as a “legendary” shop loved by the skateboarding community in Bristol and beyond.
Fifty Fifty has now permanently closed its premises on Colston Street, with its owners citing the changing landscape of independent retail.
Established in 1997, the shop was owned by Danny Wainwright and Justin ‘Syd’ Sydenham and, over the years, it became one of the UK’s most deeply respected indie skater-owned skate shops with various iterations around the city centre.
Entering the store was to sample a part of Bristol’s vibrant skate culture: jazz and 90s hip-hop played in the background, skate videos were displayed silently on a flatscreen TV and a colourful range of skateboarding equipment and apparel covered the walls.
Danny and Sid said they were “saddened” to make the “tough” decision”, thanking all their supporters and promising “the spirit of Fifty Fifty will live on in the streets of Bristol”.
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“After 28 incredible years, we’re saddened to announce that Fifty Fifty Store has closed its physical shop,” wrote the duo, who put competition winnings into starting their first shop on Park Street.
“What began in 1997 as a small skate shop grew into something so much bigger — a community, a meeting place, and a second home for generations of skaters, creatives, and friends.
“We’ve been proud to serve Bristol’s skate scene and beyond, but as the landscape of skateboard and independent retail continues to change, it’s become increasingly difficult to keep things rolling in the same way.
“We want to thank everyone who’s supported us over the years — from those who bought their first skateboard here to those who simply stopped by to hang out — and especially all the staff and team riders who have represented us. Your energy, loyalty, and love have meant everything.
“Though the shop is closing, the spirit of Fifty Fifty will live on in the streets of Bristol and in the people who made it what it was. Keep pushing, keep creating, and keep the scene alive.
Co-owners Danny Wainwright and Justin Sydenham outside the first Fifty Fifty store on Park Street in 1997 – photo: Hacker Photography
Announced on Instagram, the news has been met with an outpouring of support, with person one calling the shop “legendary” and adding the Bristol’s high street “won’t be the same”.
Pro skater Lee Blackwell added: “The more that vanish the more generations to come will miss out on that incredible feeling of skating to shop and seeing whats new, watching the newest video with mates., the excitement of knowing that new mag is out and flicking through the pages, getting there just to see a box open up of new product and meeting ya mates to go out and session.”
Another professional skateboarder Geoff Rowley said: “So sorry to hear this, thanks for all the years. Incredible shop and scene. All the best for the future Danny and Syd!”
The team stated that the website will remain live for the foreseeable future and that all online orders will continue as usual.
Main photo: Betty Woolertn
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