Subsect Skateshop

I recommend stopping by when they’re handing out free beer… or any time, really

Stopped in today with my 10 year old son and the guy working was super helpful. Looked over my kid’s board and give him some guidance on breaking in the bushings, assured him all was solid and then gave him some tips on area skate parks to try while we were in town.

Subsect seems to have finally found a permanent home in Des Moines East Village. Housed in a renovated 3-​story brick building, complete with hardwood floors and exposed brick, Subsect is inviting and stocked full of all the brands you are looking for: Emerica (there is a dedicated Emerica Lounge with flat screen TV with skate videos playing most of the day), Es, Altamont, Toy Machine, Slave, Alien Workshop, Baker, Spitfire, Krooked, Girl, Independent, Real, Vans, Nike SB, Lakai, Chocolate, and more.
Shop Manager Kevin Jones is knowledgeable and will sell you what you need, not what you think you need. The rest of the staff are personable and helpful, with plenty of suggestions on what would work best for your skill level. Parents who feel lost about the skateboard stuff, take heart, if you don’t know what you are shopping for, the employees here will help you out.
I shop here for most of my clothes (my mother even loves her HK pants!!) and shoes. Yes, most of the clothes are for men, but some of the pants fit me great, too. Subsect has the largest and most up-​to-​date selection of skate shoes in Des Moines. Stop by often as Kevin says the clothes rotate in and out about every 2 – 3 weeks. That means, if you see something and want it I would suggest you BUY IT right then because the following week it may not be there. (This has happened to me more than once)
Huge selection of boards, wheels and trucks… backpacks, gloves, hoodies, flannels, etc…
Open late for special occasions put on by the E.V. Association and check out their website every month for events like Pro Skate Demos, shop BBQ’s, and newly released video nights (they shut down the street down for the Stay Gold video premier in August). The Subsect Army is loyal to this place, with kids stopping by all the time to check out the newest and greatest. Who knows… you may even spy your favorite Pro-​skateboarder behind the counter!