Skateboarding: Frequently Asked Questions

The history of skateboarding is very unique and fascinating. It has managed to influence music, clothing and even haircuts. That is saying quite a lot. If you are not familiar with this sport then it is time you get in touch with your skateboard roots. Following are some common questions about skateboarding. The answers might just inspire you to get involved in this exciting pursuit.

When was skateboarding invented? The history of skateboarding is very vague. Most people believe that it all started in California during the 1940's or 1950's when surfers wanted a way to practice their surfing moves when the water was calm. No one really knows when the first skateboard was invented or who invented it. It appears that many people came up with the idea at the same time. The first skateboards were pieces of boards with roller skate wheels attached. It was actually referred to as "sidewalk surfing" for quite a while. The earliest skaters, or rather surfers, would perform many of the standard moves they did while actually surfing on water. It is known, however, that the first commercially produced skateboard was ordered by a California surf shop. The Chicago Roller Skate Company produced a wooden board with wheels attached. From there the hobby began to draw interest of kids that did not necessarily surf and the skateboard was improved.

How has skateboarding become so main stream? Skateboarding really was not considered main stream until the 1980's and 1990's. As more youth began to participate in the sport it became obvious that there was great money to be made. More cities began to build skate parks as an alternative to people skating and doing tricks on crowded sidewalks or streets. There was some opposition though as some cities felt that the culture and image associated with skaters was negative and dangerous. When video game consoles became more advanced, game designers were quick to include skating games. This helped further launch skateboarding as a solid hobby and even a profession.

What are some well known skateboarding movies? One of the most controversial movies to portray skateboarding is Video Days. It was released in 1991 and is a short film that gives off a definite misrepresentation of the skater culture. In the film skaters are portrayed as being rebels with no respect for other people. That changed through with Grind and Lords of Dogtown. Those two movies helped young skaters immensely. The movies were very popular and actually showed skaters as being fun-loving and respectful. It also helped launch skateboarding into a true sport that thrived with healthy competition and a true testament to skill. Another well known movie is Gleaming the Cube from 1989. It is a movie that stars Christian Slater and really marks the beginning of a brand new era for skateboarders. It also happened to feature some of the best skaters in the business such as the world famous Tony Hawk.

Can skateboarding be dangerous? There is no doubt about it...skateboarding can be dangerous. That is why skaters use protective gear. Those that do not are just taking unnecessary risks with their lives. Basic skating is simple if you are on a level ground and going in one direction. But that is not how skaters ride. They are doing amazing tricks and stunts that truly test gravity and the human body. If it were not for protective gear that body could easily end up in the hospital. And sometimes not even protective gear can stop skaters from getting hurt.

At Facts to Go, you can get more information on skateboarding, like how to choose skateboard trucks, where to shop for skateboarding stuff, and many more useful facts and ideas.