SB RAMPS

SB Ramps is a company created by and for skaters. It all started over 15 years ago, when Sergi Sallés, the founder, decided to build a mini ramp in his parents' backyard.

CREDITS

Talent: SB Ramps
Photo: Aleix Salvat

SB RAMPS

Over the years, SB Ramps' work led to a partnership with California Skateparks, the world leader in the industry, to form California Skateparks Europe. Together, they have built some of the most iconic skateparks in Europe, including the X Games in Barcelona and Munich, and the SLS Street League in cities like London, Munich, and Barcelona.

As SB Ramps continues to evolve, and along with Sergi's right - hand man, Joan Galcerán, we have the opportunity to learn more about their project and the ambitious plans they have for the future.

What inspired you to build your first mini ramp in your parents' backyard? Did you ever imagine it would turn into a business?

It all started out of love for skating and not having a place nearby to skate. Initially, building that mini ramp was something personal, like a challenge. I never thought it would become a business—it was just something I enjoyed.

But the reaction from friends and acquaintances was incredible, and that’s when I realized there was an opportunity. What started as a DIY project ended up opening doors for us.

When did you decide that SB Ramps was going to be more than just a hobby, and you turned it into a formal company?

The turning point was when we started receiving requests from people interested in having us build their own modules and ramps. Seeing that we could offer something unique, and that the community valued it, we took the plunge.

Turning SB Ramps into a formal business allowed us to provide quality service without losing the essence of our passion for skateboarding.

How did the opportunity to partner with California Skateparks arise? What did it mean for you and your team to found California Skateparks Europe?

When I lived in Los Angeles, I was able to connect with a lot of people in the industry, and those contacts were key.

When the opportunity arose to build the skatepark for the X Games in Barcelona, California Skateparks needed someone they could trust on the ground.

They thought of me, and that opened the door to founding California Skateparks Europe. For us, it was an honor and a huge step: it allowed us to take our passion and experience to a global level, participating in projects with massive reach.

What has been the biggest challenge working on major projects like the X Games or the Street League in European cities?

One of the biggest challenges was definitely logistics. These are events that require pinpoint accuracy, tight deadlines, and they also must meet international standards.

Each project is tailored to the city's environment, which adds complexity. But in the end, the satisfaction of seeing the result and how the skaters enjoy the facilities makes all the effort worth it.

How did you manage to recreate the Big 4 from MACBA in less than 24 hours?

The case of the Big 4 from MACBA, it was a real challenge, and we had to organize and plan everything down to the last detail. Time was against us, but we knew we could pull it off in under 24 hours. It was extremely satisfying to complete it successfully and watch some of the world’s best skaters ride it.

Of all the projects you’ve completed so far, which one are you most proud of?

It’s hard to choose because each project has something special. But if we had to pick two, they would be the X Games in Barcelona, because it was in our hometown and allowed us to showcase what we’re capable of on a global level.

The second would be the mini ramp we installed on the sea on a floating platform for an advertising campaign. It was a unique project with many challenges, but the result was spectacular and left everyone in awe. We took skateboarding to an unexpected setting, and that’s exactly what we love to do.

During the pandemic, we saw Sergi creating many new designs and boosting the sales of modules for home use. How did SB Ramps evolve during that time?

The pandemic made us rethink many things. Since people were spending more time at home, we focused on creating easy-to-assemble home modules, which turned out to be a great decision. Besides keeping us active, it allowed us to connect with skaters who wanted to keep skating in their own space. It was a moment of creativity and adaptation that helped us reach a new audience and diversify.

For Joan Galcerán, how did you start working for SB Ramps, and what role do you play in the company?

I was on Instagram when I saw that Sergi had launched a profile for SB Ramps with a "coming soon." I called him right away to find out what it was about, and when he explained his idea, I was hooked immediately. I joined without hesitation.

Today, I’m the Brand Manager, handling marketing, social media, and designing modern and functional modules. As a professional skater, I lend my image and create collaborations with brands that share our vision. For me, it’s a passion project and a lifestyle.

Beyond skateboarding, you also carry out special projects in other sectors. What other projects have you developed?

One of our most interesting projects is the surfskate ramp, which we designed alongside surfers to replicate the surfing experience. We’re also partners in the National Surfskate League.

On the other hand, thanks to our CNC technology, we’ve expanded our offerings and created a retail department with customized products for different sectors. These types of projects keep us innovating and allow us to collaborate in areas beyond skateboarding.

In terms of sustainability, how do you manage the environmental impact during the manufacturing process?

We use CNC technology to optimize each board to the maximum, reducing material waste. We choose durable, recyclable materials and pay close attention to our processes to make them as efficient and sustainable as possible. It’s important for us to maintain an environmental commitment while creating high-quality products.

How will SB Ramps evolve in the coming years?

We want to be a reference not only in skatepark construction but also in the skateboarding community. Our vision is to keep innovating, creating spaces for urban culture, and strengthening our connections with the next generation of skaters. Additionally, we plan to expand our global influence, working with brands that share our passion and approach to skateboarding.

What project are you working on right now, if you can tell us?

We’re currently focused on the SB HQ, a project that goes beyond just being a skatepark. We want to create a space where brands can authentically connect with urban culture, create unique content, showcase products, and host brand events.

The idea is for it to be a place that breathes creativity, where brands find a platform to tell their stories and connect with their audience in an original and memorable way. We want SB HQ to be a reference point not only for skaters but for any brand that values authenticity and innovation.