Skateboarding, since its inception, has been largely perceived as a male-dominated activity. While the number of female skateboarders is steadily growing, the sport remains heavily skewed towards male participants. This article explores the various reasons behind this gender disparity, examining factors ranging from risk-taking tendencies to cultural influences and media representation.
A skateboarder performing a trick
The Numbers: Male vs. Female Skateboarders
Looking at the demographics, it’s clear that the skateboarding world is predominantly male. While exact figures vary across surveys, it’s generally accepted that a significant majority of skateboarders are male. Estimates often place male participation at around 77%, with female participation at about 23%. Even these figures are debated, with some claiming much lower percentages of female participants. Regardless, the clear takeaway is that women are underrepresented in skateboarding. This underrepresentation extends from local skateparks to the broader professional scene.
Is Skateboarding Inherently Gendered?
The question arises: is there something inherent to skateboarding that makes it more appealing to men? The answer is no. Skateboarding is not exclusive to any particular body type, age, or gender. The beauty of skateboarding lies in its freedom – anyone can participate and enjoy it according to their unique preferences. The diverse styles and terrains available further expand its appeal. From vert to street to cruising, skateboarding offers a niche for everyone. The sport’s inclusive nature is evident in the wide range of people who participate.
The “Boys Only” Myth
So, if skateboarding isn’t inherently gendered, why the disparity? One theory is that skateboarding, being a physically demanding sport with a high risk of injury, might be perceived as more aligned with masculine ideals. Men often grow up engaging in rough-and-tumble activities, making the falls and scrapes of skateboarding less of a deterrent. In contrast, societal norms might discourage girls from participating in such physically risky activities. However, it is important to recognize that these are learned behaviors and stereotypes, not inherent differences. Moreover, the rough and tumble nature of early skateboarding culture may have inadvertently created a hostile space for women, further limiting their participation.
The perception of skateboarding as “for boys” is also influenced by some toxic attitudes within the skateboarding community. Comments like the infamous “skateboarding is not for girls” quote from a professional skater reflect and perpetuate exclusionary viewpoints.
Lack of Female Role Models in Media
The lack of female representation in skateboarding media plays a significant role. Mainstream media, such as movies and TV shows, have historically portrayed skateboarders almost exclusively as male. Movies like “Gleaming the Cube,” “Thrashin’,” and “Mid90s” are all fantastic examples of skateboarding culture but feature a complete lack of female skaters. These portrayals send a message that skateboarding is primarily a male activity, inadvertently discouraging girls from participating. The absence of a female “Marty McFly” figure in popular culture means that many young girls lack relatable role models, further cementing the perception of skateboarding as a male domain.
While social media offers some counter-narratives, with many female skaters sharing their skills and experiences online, algorithms and exposure remain challenges. You generally have to actively seek out female skater content, and even when present, it often appears less frequently than male content on platforms like Instagram. This disparity further entrenches the existing unequal representation.
Are There Physical Barriers for Women in Skateboarding?
Physically, there are no insurmountable barriers preventing women from being successful skateboarders. While males may have a slight upper hand in terms of average upper body strength, this doesn’t hinder a female from excelling in skateboarding. Like any sport, success in skateboarding comes down to practice, proper technique, and building the right muscles. Both genders are equally capable of mastering the skills required to skate effectively.
A female skateboarder riding a ramp
Psychological Barriers and Peer Influence
Perhaps the most significant barriers for female skateboarders are psychological. Factors such as lack of exposure to female skaters, the absence of strong female role models, limited peer support, and feeling uncomfortable in male-dominated skate spaces often discourage girls from taking up skateboarding.
The power of peer support cannot be overstated. If girls do not see other girls skating, they are far less likely to take it up themselves. Starting a new activity alone can be daunting, especially if the space is male-dominated. This is a common experience even for adults starting skateboarding later in life. The lack of representation translates to a lack of encouragement and makes it hard to form peer groups.
Moreover, if the girls in their peer group aren’t skateboarding, a young girl may feel like it is a less accessible or socially acceptable option. The impact of seeing other people, especially those that you relate to, participating in a particular activity can not be overstated. The more visible female skaters are, the more opportunities there will be for other girls to get into skateboarding.
The Path Forward: Increasing Female Participation
Looking at the state of skateboarding, it’s clear that while the sport is physically accessible to all, it is not always equally accessible due to a number of cultural and societal factors. To see a more balanced representation of genders in skateboarding, there needs to be a shift in the way the sport is presented. It’s imperative that:
- Increased media representation: More women should be featured in skateboarding media, from films and TV shows to magazines and online platforms.
- Cultivating inclusive skate communities: Creating skate spaces that are welcoming and supportive for all genders is essential.
- Promoting role models: Highlighting the achievements of female skateboarders can inspire the next generation.
- Challenging stereotypes: Actively combatting the idea that skateboarding is “just for boys.”
The good news is that things are changing. The inclusion of skateboarding in the Olympics is increasing the visibility of the sport, bringing new female participants into the fold. The continued push for representation and inclusivity will ultimately help create a more welcoming and balanced skateboarding world.
William K
I am a Canadian in my early 40’s, 5’10”, 170 lb and can grow a fantastic beard. I like to play video games, watch movies and hang out with my cats, Steve and Gary. I enjoy making things with my hands from craft projects to constructing buildings. Oh, I also love skateboarding.
