WHAT IS A LOWRIDER?
December 25, 2022 | Story: Jay Valdea
1961 Impala from Blvd Family | Owner: Angie Robles
What is a lowrider? Who drives a lowrider? Where can I see lowriders?
These are common questions you’ll get from those interested in either the cars or the culture. It should also come as no surprise that the world is fascinated by lowriders. With dazzling looks and incredible paint jobs, lowriders have always played a significant part in car culture. But what makes them such a main attraction to the general public? For starters, lowriders aren’t as common a sight as Hot Rods, Imports or European cars. Par top the reason could be most lowirders aren’t daily drive, and the other reason is because when they’re not our cruising they’re usually in the shop getting upgrades – because ask any owner of a lowrider and they’ll tell you that “lowriders are never done.”
Unfortunately, the lack of media coverage resulted in lowriding suffering a bad reputation – but that’s all changed in the past few years.
So what is lowriding?
Lowriding isn’t straightforward. It’s a multifaceted culture that that can only be understood through experience. In short, lowriding is more than a car culture. It’s a lifestyle that involves multiple angles including camrederie, family, respect, honor, and the carrying of a tradition that was started back in the early 40’s. For me personally, lowriding is a feeling. It’s a vibe that represents love and unity and a culture that gets better with time.
As a custom car culture and lifestyle, lowriding is estimated to have started sometime in the 1940s. Since then, lowriding has become best known for its brilliant, eye-catching paint jobs and ability to ride low to the ground – and let’s not forget one of the most unique features of a lowrider being able to hop off the ground, or ride on three-wheels using elaborate hydraulic systems. But the story is so much deeper than that. The customization of any lowrider is nothing short of a rolling canvas which displays the artistic expression and vision of the owner or families behind the build.
Regardless of the lowrider type, they all share a love of customizing their cars and expressing themselves through their vehicles. For many lowrider enthusiasts, their cars are more than just a mode of transportation – they are a source of pride and a way to connect with their cultural heritage. In this continuing series, we will explore the different facets of the culture and will touch upon the importance of the family unit, the camaraderie, and of course the different details of a lowrider including the wire wheels and different styles and forms of hydraulic systems.
Is Lowriding A Multicultural Lifestyle?
Yes. It is. Lowriders are a unique and multicultural form of car culture that has gained popularity around the world. For those unfamiliar with lowriders, they are cars that have been customized to ride as low to the ground as possible, often through the use of hydraulic suspension systems or by cutting and lowering the car’s frame.
The origins of lowriding can be traced back to Chicano communities in the United States, particularly in Los Angeles. However, the culture has since spread to cities all around the world, attracting enthusiasts from a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures.
One of the defining features of lowriding culture is the strong sense of community that exists among its participants. Lowriders often come together to share their passion for cars and the art of customization, and they frequently participate in car shows and other events.
One such event is the annual Lowrider Super Show, which is held in different cities across the United States. At these shows, lowriders from all over the country come together to showcase their cars and compete for prizes. The Super Show is a celebration of lowriding culture and the creativity and pride that goes into building and customizing these cars.
One such event is the annual Lowrider Super Show, which is held in different cities across the United States. At these shows, lowriders from all over the country come together to showcase their cars and compete for prizes. The Super Show is a celebration of lowriding culture and the creativity and pride that goes into building and customizing these cars.In addition to the car shows, lowriding culture is also reflected in the music and art that is associated with it. Lowrider oldies, a genre of music that originated in the Chicano community, often features songs about cruising in lowrider cars and the lifestyle that surrounds them. Similarly, lowriding has inspired a range of artistic expressions, including murals, tattoos, and even fashion.
Overall, lowriding is a multicultural and vibrant cultural movement that has brought together people of all backgrounds and walks of life. It is a celebration of creativity, community, and the enduring appeal of classic cars. So, if you’re interested in learning more about lowriders and the lifestyle that surrounds them, be sure to check out the many events, music, and art that are a part of this unique and fascinating cultural movement.
