A funbox is a standard element of a
skatepark. It generally consists of a
box shape with a flat top and a
ramp on two or more sides. A funbox may also include other elements that allow for more complicated
skateboarding tricks.
[''Skateboarding Skills: The Rider's Guide'']
by Ben Powell (Firefly Books, 2008)
Like other skatepark features, funboxes are used by
skateboarders,
roller skaters using inline skates or quad skates, and
BMX-riders.
Features
Table-top - The main characteristic of a funbox is the standard
table-top; the flat top of the main structural ''box'' component. The table-top can vary in height and surface area.
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Ramps - To allow access to the table-top, a funbox will generally be surrounded (on two or more sides) by ramps or ]stairs
Stairs are a structure designed to bridge a large vertical distance between lower and higher levels by dividing it into smaller vertical distances. This is achieved as a diagonal series of horizontal platforms called steps which enable passage ...
to allow tricks or transitions on, off or over the table-top.
Other elements - A funbox may also include a number of other elements including ledges, rails, spines, copings
Coping refers to conscious strategies used to reduce unpleasant emotions. Coping strategies can be cognitions or behaviours and can be individual or social.
Theories of coping
Hundreds of coping strategies have been proposed in an attempt to ...
, angled ramps, wall sections to allow "wallrides" and improvised street furniture pieces.
A funbox with ramps on opposite sides may allow for the conduct of aerial tricks. As such, funboxes are commonly placed in line with the "outlet" of a larger ramp to allow for a build-up of speed. Typically, a funbox with ramps or transitions on all sides of the table will be placed in the middle of a park.
Construction
Funboxes are generally constructed of concrete
Concrete is a composite material composed of fine and coarse aggregate bonded together with a fluid cement (cement paste) that hardens (cures) over time. Concrete is the second-most-used substance in the world after water, and is the most ...
(as a permanent element in a skatepark) or wood (as a moveable or customizable element for street skateboarding). Some variations include steel frames and both concrete and wood constructions will often include steel copings or rails. Some funboxes will be constructed in sections to allow for further customization.''Ramp Plans: Learn How to Build Vert Street Mini Launch and Bowls (2000 Edition)''
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The construction must resist dynamic structural load resulting from aerial tricks or jumps onto the funbox.
References
{{Skateboarding
Skateboarding
Skateboarding equipment