LEARN
TO SKATE
Personalized Skateboard Instruction · NYC
First lesson 20% off · code SPRING20
Or text Leon directly: (914) 294-4407
★★★★★ 17 Five-Star Reviews
Private lessons from $120/hr · Group lessons from $80/person
As Seen In
“Skating can feel intimidating. Leon creates a supportive environment and meets you exactly where you’re at while celebrating the small wins.”
Paige W. · Verified Google Review
Pricing
Straightforward rates.
First lesson 20% off with code SPRING20.
Private Lesson
One-on-one instruction tailored to your skill level. Great for first-timers and focused progression.
Book Now3-Lesson Package
Three private sessions at a discounted rate. The sweet spot for real progress and confidence.
Book NowGroup Lesson
Two or more students learning together. Perfect for siblings, friends, or couples.
Book NowAll lessons include boards, helmets, and travel within NYC metro.
20+
Years Experience
All Ages
Kids & Adults Welcome
Boards
Provided for Every Lesson
Flexible
Scheduling 7 Days a Week
Frequently Asked
Everything you want to know.
Comfortable clothes you can move in and closed-toe sneakers with flat soles (Vans, Converse, or similar). Skip shorts for your first lesson — jeans or joggers protect your knees if you fall.
No. Leon brings boards and helmets for every lesson, sized for kids and adults. If you already have your own setup, bring it and he'll check that it's dialed in.
Kids from age 5 through adults of any age. Leon has taught 6-year-olds their first push and 50-year-olds their first drop-in. No age is too late.
Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Westchester County, and parts of Connecticut. Leon meets you at a skate park or quiet spot near you. Location is confirmed after booking.
Private lessons start at $120 per hour. A 3-lesson package is $300 ($100 per session). Group lessons are $80 per person with a 2-person minimum. First lesson is 20% off with code SPRING20.
That's exactly who Leon works with best. Every lesson starts with balance, stance, and confidence on flat ground. No one gets pushed beyond what they're ready for.
Yes. About half of Leon's students are adults, many of whom have never stepped on a board before. It's never weird and never too late.
Fill out the form on the booking page, text Leon directly at (914) 294-4407, or email leontoppin1@gmail.com. He usually replies within a few hours.
Still have questions? Text Leon directly.
(914) 294-4407 →
About Leon
Skateboarding as
a creative practice
Leon Toppin is a New York–based skateboarder, instructor, and performer who teaches skateboarding as a path to resilience, creativity, and self-discovery.
In a world shaped by screens and algorithms, skateboarding remains one of the last truly analog art forms. It demands balance, courage, and persistence.
The biggest challenge in skateboarding is overcoming yourself.
Skateboarding teaches resilience in a way few activities can. Every trick demands patience and the courage to try again. For Leon, skateboarding is a creative practice that builds confidence and real joy.
“It cannot be simulated. It has to be lived.”
The Difference
Why Learn With Leon
Personalized Teaching
Every lesson is tailored to your skill level, your goals, and how your body learns. No cookie-cutter approach.
Confidence Through Progress
Learn to overcome fear and develop the resilience that extends far beyond the board.
Welcoming Community
A supportive environment where beginners feel genuinely welcome and skill levels don't create barriers.
Private Facilities Available
Need focused, distraction-free coaching? Leon has access to private skating facilities for one-on-one sessions away from crowds.
Years Skating
Years Teaching
4–65
Ages Taught
Certified
Instructor
Testimonials
What Students Are Saying
“I wouldn’t be who I am today nor as confident in myself and what I do if it wasn’t for this guy. He took something like teaching skateboarding and showed me it can be applied to a lot of things in life. He takes the time when teaching and never gets frustrated with you. Leon could teach me rocket science if he really wanted. He is that great!”
Bj M.
Verified Google Review · ★★★★★
“Leon is one of the best skater/teachers in New York. He's very knowledgeable and very patient with his students. Highly recommended if you or your child wants to get into skating.”
Kenny A.
Verified Google Review · ★★★★★
“Super patient, encouraging, and actually knows how to break things down in a way that makes it click.”
Nique C.
Verified Google Review · ★★★★★
“Leon is patient, encouraging, and leans on years of experience to clearly explain techniques. He does a great job of challenging skaters within their skill levels, keeping things fun while learning new tricks.”
Ali A.
Verified Google Review · ★★★★★
“Leon is the best! One of the most encouraging, supportive and honest skaters in the game. Helped me so much in my skateboarding journey. Highly recommended for all your skateboarding needs!”
Aisha W.
Verified Google Review · ★★★★★
“Leon is by far the best hype man to skate with!! He is always cheering me on and pushing me to try new things. Plus, he's really great at watching me try a trick and then quickly knowing exactly what I need to do to fix it.”
Laura S.
Verified Google Review · ★★★★★
Portfolio
Selected Work
Your First Lesson Is the Hardest to Book
Most students are riding comfortably by session three. Whether you’re booking for yourself or your kid, Leon meets you where you are.
Free Guide
5 Things to Know Before Your First Lesson
What to wear, what to expect, and how to get the most out of your first hour on a board. Leon’s tips, straight to your inbox.
Follow the journey