Why Is Skateboarding So Popular? Exploring Its Resurgence and Cultural Impact

It’s fascinating to consider how a simple piece of wood with four wheels has captivated over 80 million people worldwide. Skateboarding’s journey has been a rollercoaster of popularity, experiencing periods of decline and explosive growth. So, what exactly has fueled this enduring passion for skateboarding and why has it become so popular?

One of the key factors is that skateboarding is undeniably cool and relatively inexpensive to start. Compared to other extreme sports such as BMX, motocross, or snowboarding, the initial investment is minimal, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals. The recent surge in skateboarding’s popularity can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the pandemic and the 2021 Olympics, which further amplified its appeal. While there might be a slight decline now, skateboarding has become a significant cultural phenomenon, integrated into advertising, film, apps, and video games, solidifying its position in the mainstream.

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The Shifting Perception of Skateboarding

For many years, skateboarding was often associated with rebellion and viewed as an activity for outcasts or even anarchists. Skaters were stereotyped as troublemakers causing property damage while drinking and smoking. However, over the past decade, societal attitudes have gradually changed, leading to a greater acceptance of skateboarders. Cities have started to invest in skateparks and dedicated spaces for skaters, recognizing the positive impact it has on young people. A great example is the “Hotel de Ville” plaza in Lyon, France, which was renovated to accommodate both skaters and pedestrians.

Moreover, skateboarding’s inclusion as an Olympic sport in the 2021 Tokyo Summer Olympics has further legitimized the activity and boosted its reputation among the general public. This acceptance has also influenced the skateboarding community itself. Initially resistant to mainstream acceptance, the core skate culture has become more open and welcoming, understanding that they no longer solely define skateboarding. This shift has created a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Reasons Behind Skateboarding’s Comeback

Skateboarding has witnessed a new golden era over the last five years, with the industry experiencing unprecedented growth. The market was projected to reach $2.4 billion by 2025, according to Statista, but this estimate was made before the recent boom. The global pandemic undoubtedly fueled this surge, as many people decided to start or return to skateboarding.

Increased Participation Among Girls and Older Adults

With skateboarding’s growing social acceptance, the demographic of participants has diversified. While teenagers still make up a considerable portion, their representation has decreased compared to a decade ago. Simultaneously, there’s been a noticeable increase in the number of adults who are either returning to skateboarding or starting for the first time. The same trend applies to girls, although they still represent a minority, more and more girls are getting involved in skateboarding. The emergence of professional female skaters making a living through sponsorships and contests is a testament to this shift, showcasing a remarkable transformation within the community.

The Impact of Social Media on Skateboarding

Traditionally, the skateboarding scene was geographically restricted, with opportunities primarily concentrated in locations like California and a few other major cities. However, social media has revolutionized the way skaters gain exposure and build their careers. Skaters can now gain worldwide recognition without necessarily being located in these traditional skate hubs. This has created a much more democratic and accessible environment for aspiring pros.

Platforms like Instagram and YouTube have played a crucial role in the exponential evolution of skateboarding. The abundance of easily accessible content, from tutorials to skate videos, has drastically accelerated learning and skill development. Unlike the past when video releases were few and far between, the constant flow of content on the internet provides a wealth of inspiration and knowledge. Viral clips, often showcasing funny fails, expose skateboarding to a wider audience and introduce many people to the sport, sparking their interest.

Skateboarding’s Appeal During a Pandemic

Amidst the global pandemic, when many activities were restricted, skateboarding saw a surge in popularity. As people spent more time at home, skateboarding emerged as an ideal way to stay active, have fun, and remain safe. It is inherently a safe activity since it doesn’t require a team or a specific location. All it takes is a flat ground spot to start skating. This makes skateboarding a convenient and accessible option for people looking for both physical activity and entertainment. As a result, skateboarding has become more mainstream in 2020, while still being far from the reach of established sports industries.

Skateboarding’s Influence on Popular Culture

skateboarders in a skatepark

Skateboarding has always had a strong relationship with fashion, with each influencing the other. Today, it’s not unusual to see non-skaters wearing skate-inspired clothing such as Vans shoes or Thrasher apparel. Two skateboarding brands, in particular, have experienced an explosion in popularity and have become staples within the fashion industry.

Thrasher Magazine, a core skateboarding media outlet, has seen its brand become a mainstream fashion statement, ironic considering the brand’s anti-mainstream ethos. Similarly, Supreme, an NYC streetwear brand that originated from skateboarding, has transformed from a local skate shop into a billion-dollar company. These brands are now worn by celebrities, influencers, and models, highlighting the impact of skateboarding culture on mainstream fashion.

The Impact of Skateboarding Across Mainstream Media

Skateboarding’s influence has also extended to mainstream entertainment. Television shows, particularly on MTV, have often featured skateboard stars, including Jackass with Bam Margera, Rob & Big starring Rob Dyrdek, and Life of Ryan featuring Ryan Sheckler. Video games have been a huge contributor to skateboarding’s popularity, with the Tony Hawk franchise alone generating over $1.4 billion in sales. Other successful franchises like EA Skate, Skater XL and Session have also contributed to the sport’s overall popularity.

Skateboarding has also made inroads into music, with prominent rappers such as Lil Wayne, Hopsin, Tyler the Creator, and Logic publicly displaying their passion for skateboarding. Celebrities like Jonah Hill, Seth Rogan, and Matthew McConaughey have also embraced skateboarding culture. Likewise, professional skateboarders, such as Tony Hawk, Rob Dyrdek, Bam Margera, and Ryan Sheckler, have achieved celebrity status. Jason Lee, a former pro skater, exemplifies this, making a successful transition into acting, with a prominent role in “My Name is Earl.”

Is Skateboarding Experiencing a Decline?

The opposite is actually true, as skateboarding has seen a major upswing in popularity in recent years, particularly in 2020. This resurgence was visible in local skateparks that were once dominated by scooter riders, now thriving with skateboarders of all ages. While Google Trends data indicates a slight decrease in popularity compared to 2020 and 2021, skateboarding has become a staple activity for many people.

The Historical Evolution of Skateboarding

Since its invention by Californian surfers in the 1950s, skateboarding has continued to evolve. Initially, boards were primarily used for basic rolling and turning, but the sport began to change in the 1970s with the rise of commercial skateboards, skaters began riding in empty swimming pools and on vert ramps. Skateparks started to emerge, serving as meeting points for skaters and eventually the first skate contests.

The 1980s witnessed a decline in skateboard sales, with the sport losing popularity until Rodney Mullen’s arrival. Mullen reinvented street skateboarding by introducing new techniques, laying the foundation for what the sport is known for today. Since the 2000s, skateboarding’s popularity has skyrocketed, featuring competitions such as the X-Games broadcasted on live television and video games such as the Tony Hawk series reaching mainstream audiences. The skateboard market also expanded, with hundreds of brands launching, along with established giants like Nike and Adidas also entering the market. Social media in the 2010s transformed the sport, enabling skaters to gain global recognition and build careers through platforms like YouTube and Instagram.

Conclusion

Skateboarding’s popularity is a complex phenomenon that reflects its constantly evolving nature. From oversized shoes and baggy jeans to sleek shoes and slim pants, fashion trends come and go, but skateboarding’s core values of love and fun endure. As people continue to embrace the sport, skateboarding will continue to be an influential force.

So, are you ready to get back into skateboarding or try it out for the first time? If so, check out our curated list of best skateboards, which have been tested and approved.

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