Skateboarding, historically a male-dominated scene, has witnessed a remarkable transformation thanks to the relentless efforts of female athletes. Since the 1960s, these women have been breaking barriers, inspiring countless others, and reshaping the landscape of skateboarding. Their impact extends beyond the sport, proving that passion and skill know no gender.
These pioneering women have not just participated; they’ve actively redefined what skateboarding means. From the early days of Patti McGee and Peggy Oki, who set the stage, to the modern era of athletes like Leticia Bufoni and Sky Brown, female skateboarders have demonstrated exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and a profound love for the sport. Their stories are a testament to the power of inclusivity and the ever-evolving spirit of skateboarding.
This article celebrates some of the most influential female skateboarders of all time, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the skateboarding world.
Best female skateboarders who made an impact
Women in Skateboarding: Shattering Stereotypes and Inspiring Change
The rise of female skateboarders is among the most exciting developments in the sport. With skateboarding’s debut as an Olympic sport, women are rightfully gaining the spotlight. But their journey hasn’t been recent; women have been carving their paths in skateboarding since the beginning.
Patti McGee, the first female professional skateboarder in 1964, set a world record for speed on a skateboard, reaching 47 miles per hour. She also secured the first Female National Skateboard Championship, setting a high bar for those who followed. A decade later, Peggy Oki took first place in the Women’s Freestyle Competition and later became the only female member of the Z-Boys, demonstrating skill and fearlessness. Laura Thornhill’s signature board further cemented women’s place in skateboarding culture.
Despite these early achievements, women struggled for recognition and equal opportunities. Sponsorships, shoe deals, and equal pay were elusive until the mid-90s, when pioneers like Elissa Steamer, known as the “godmother of street skating,” and Cara-Beth Burnside, the first woman with her own skate shoe, emerged as game-changers.
Early demographic studies in the 90s showed a huge gender disparity, with only 10% of participants being female. However, this has drastically changed. Skateboarding has evolved from a counterculture movement to a respected Olympic sport, with a core value of inclusivity, regardless of gender, age, orientation, or ethnicity. The sport is celebrated for its discipline, peer support, and appreciation for individual artistry.
Skateboarding is a space for those who challenge societal norms. Female skateboarders have been at the forefront of this movement for decades. We’re fortunate to witness some of the greatest talents in the sport today, further cementing skateboarding’s inclusivity.
12 Trailblazing Female Skateboarders
Skateboarding owes much of its vibrant culture to the women who dared to pursue their passion, defying expectations and breaking new ground. These individuals haven’t just excelled in the sport; they have also inspired others to overcome obstacles and embrace their individuality.
1. Patti McGee
Patti McGee’s impact on skateboarding is undeniable. Her appearance on the cover of Life Magazine in 1965, performing a handstand on her skateboard, captivated the world. Shortly after, she was the only woman featured in Skateboarder magazine. McGee’s induction into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame was a historic moment, making her the first woman to achieve this honor. As a “demo girl” for Hobie Skateboards, she demonstrated skills and tricks that inspired many young women. Today, McGee continues to inspire through her clothing designs for female skateboarders.
Best female skateboarders who made an impact
2. Peggy Oki
Peggy Oki is another foundational figure in women’s skateboarding. Her fearless approach to skating led her to become the first and only female member of the Z-Boys. Oki’s unique and powerful style, coupled with her skills, challenged the male-dominated scene. Beyond skateboarding, Oki has become a strong environmental activist, establishing the Origami Whales Project and the Whales and Dolphins Ambassador Program, demonstrating that her passion extends beyond the board.
3. Cara-Beth Burnside
Cara-Beth Burnside made a striking entry onto the scene in 1989, appearing on the cover of Thrasher magazine, a powerful statement of her dominance in vertical ramp skating. Burnside’s career spanned both skateboarding and snowboarding, winning 16 titles in various competitions, including gold medals in the first-ever US Olympic snowboard team in 1998 and X-Games medals for SKB Vert. Burnside played a crucial role in the X-Games adding a women’s event, an important step toward gender equality. As the first woman to have her own signature skate shoe, Burnside has inspired many to pursue their passion.
4. Elissa Streamer
Elissa Streamer redefined the role of women in skateboarding in the early 90s, establishing herself as a true professional in the sport. She secured equal pay early in her career, challenging norms and paving the way for others. Streamer earned four gold medals in the X-Games Women’s Street event and went on to partner with various skateboarding brands. Today, she runs her own brand, “Gnarhunters,” focusing on inclusivity in skateboarding, advocating for a future where gender is irrelevant in the sport.
5. Leticia Bufoni
Leticia Bufoni, a Brazilian powerhouse, started skateboarding at nine years old and quickly rose to prominence. Her father’s initial reluctance didn’t stop her. By 14, she was competing in the X-Games, earning five gold medals and securing a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for the most wins in the World Cup of Skateboarding. She became the first woman on the cover of The Skateboard Mag and was signed to the Nike SB team. Bufoni’s dedication and success have made her a role model and inspiration worldwide.
Best female skateboarders who made an impact
6. Alexis Sablone
Alexis Sablone, a veteran of the inaugural US Olympic Skateboarding team, is more than just a skater; she is an architect with a master’s degree from MIT and an artist who designs board graphics for WKND Skateboards. She entered her first contest at 12 and has since earned three golds, a silver, and two bronze medals in the X-Games. Her creativity and passion for skating blend seamlessly in her work, including a skateable sculpture, “Lady in the Square,” in Sweden. Sablone’s diverse talents and dedication to the sport make her a unique and influential figure in skateboarding.
7. Aori Nishimura
Aori Nishimura, a Japanese skateboarding phenom, began her journey at seven years old. She has already secured the Japanese Skateboarding Championship and was the first Japanese athlete to win gold at the X-Games. Despite facing injuries, she has consistently shown resilience. Nishimura’s influence as a leading figure in women’s street skateboarding in Japan is significant, and she continues to be a “gold medal threat” in every competition she enters.
8. Lizzie Armanto
Lizzie Armanto is a groundbreaking skateboarder, most notably the first female to complete Tony Hawk’s 360 loop in 2018. Her numerous awards include being the first to win gold in the X Games Women’s Park Competition in 2013. Armanto was also the first female to be featured on the cover of Transworld Skateboarding and on Thrasher magazine. Her passion for skating, ignited at a young age at the local skate park, has led her to be a true force in the sport.
9. Nora Vasconcellos
Nora Vasconcellos overcame an anxiety disorder and quickly rose to the pro level, becoming the first woman to join the Adidas team. She won the Vans Park Series World Championships in 2017 and Transworld’s Readers’ Choice Female Award. Her dedication and perseverance are inspiring, making her a role model. Beyond skateboarding, Vasconcellos is also a talented artist.
10. Alana Smith
Alana Smith is an X-Games veteran who achieved a Guinness World Record for being the youngest X Games medalist in the Women’s Park Contest at just 12 years old. Smith is known for her strength and versatility, competing across various skateboarding styles. While she is still working towards her first gold medal, her determination and consistent rise after every fall make her a force to be reckoned with.
11. Sky Brown
Sky Brown is the youngest professional skateboarder in the world and the youngest Nike-sponsored athlete. At 11 years old, she has already placed third at the World Skateboarding Championship in 2019 and won a Bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Despite a severe fall, Brown’s resilience and positive attitude inspire others. Her talent, learned mostly through YouTube, has made her an international skateboarding sensation.
Best female skateboarders who made an impact
12. Sabre Norris
Sabre Norris made history as the third female to land a 540 (halfpipe) at only 9 years old. She also became the first Australian woman to land this trick. Her viral video, combined with her other accomplishments, have made her a popular media figure. She also competes in surfing and has a popular YouTube channel called “The Norris Nuts,” further expanding her reach and influence.
Final Thoughts
Women in skateboarding have consistently broken barriers, transforming the industry and making skateboarding a more inclusive space. From the pioneers of the 1960s to the modern athletes, their achievements are a testament to their determination, creativity, and passion for the sport.
Their stories serve as a powerful reminder that skateboarding is truly for everyone. So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced skater, join the community and embrace the fun and freedom of riding. For more inspiring stories, check out our article on the “best skateboarders of all time.”
Sources:
- http://www.skateboardinghalloffame.org/projects/2010-patti-mcgee/
- https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/search/object/nmah_1448124
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peggy_Oki
- https://thesportjournal.org/article/an-ethnographic-study-of-the-skateboarding-culture/
- https://web.archive.org/web/20120710224319/http://www.girlsskatenetwork.com/index.php/features/interview/60-us/60-cara-beth-burnside-interview
- https://web.archive.org/web/20141014162442/http:/paradigmmagazine.com/2014/10/01/peggy-oki-interview/
