Skateboard

Skateboarder in the air

Skateboard-truck

BallBearing

Skateboarding is a recreational activity, an art form, a profession, and a method of transportation that involves riding and performing tricks using a skateboard. Skateboarding has been shaped and influenced by many skateboarders throughout the years. A 2009 report found that the skateboarding market is worth an estimated $4.8 billion in annual revenue with 11.08 million active skateboarders in the world. In 2016, it was announced that skateboarding will be represented at the 2020 Summer Olympics for the first time.

History

Skateboarding was probably born sometime in the late 1940s or early 1950s when surfers in California wanted something to do when the waves were flat. This was called "sidewalk surfing" – a new wave of surfing on the sidewalk as the sport of surfing became highly popular. Skateboarding has gone through its ups and downs over the years but has always been an expression of youth culture and creativity.

Equipment

The skateboard itself has evolved over time in terms of design and functionality. The basic components of a skateboard include the deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape. The deck is the flat standing surface of the skateboard, the trucks attach the wheels to the deck, and the wheels allow the board to roll. Bearings fit inside the wheels and allow them to spin freely. Grip tape is applied to the top of the deck to provide traction.

Styles

There are several styles of skateboarding, including street, ramp, pool, and freestyle. Each style requires different skills and has its own culture, techniques, and types of skateboards.

• Street skateboarding involves performing tricks and maneuvers over urban obstacles like stairs, handrails, benches, and ledges.
• Ramp or vert skateboarding is performed on half-pipes, quarterpipes, and skateparks that mimic the surfing wave.
• Pool skateboarding involves skating in an empty swimming pool.
• Freestyle skateboarding is one of the oldest styles, focusing on flat ground tricks.

Culture

Skateboarding culture includes a variety of media, including magazines, videos, and music. Skateboarders often create their own DIY skateparks and spots, contributing to the creative aspect of the culture. Skateboarding has also influenced fashion, art, and language.

Safety

Skateboarding can be dangerous, so safety equipment, including helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads, is recommended, especially for beginners or when performing high-risk maneuvers.

Competitions

Skateboarding competitions have grown from local contests to major international events. The X Games, Street League Skateboarding (SLS), and the Vans Park Series are some of the most well-known competitions. With its inclusion in the Olympics, skateboarding has gained further legitimacy and exposure.

Impact on Society

Skateboarding has had a significant impact on sports and culture worldwide. It promotes creativity, physical activity, and a sense of community among its practitioners. Despite its rebellious image, skateboarding has been embraced by mainstream culture and continues to evolve as a sport and art form.