Skateboarding began in the United States in the early 1960's, when California teenagers attached roller skates to wood boards so that they could practice "surfing" on the sidewalk. The ride was far from perfect. Bumpy roads and stones often stopped the small skate wheels and this sent the sidewalk surfers sprawling.
In the 1970's, manufacturers responded to this fad by using improved wheels and boards. Newer plastic wheels made out of polyurethane were larger and softer than skate wheels. These plastic wheels provided a smoother ride and excellent traction. The wheels were mounted on special shock absorbers called trucks that made boards easier to maneuver. Improved boards came in different models and were made of different woods as well as plastic, fiberglass, and aluminum. With the new equipment, the sport caught on quickly, and today more than 20 million people all over the world are skateboarding. Some of them even use custom-made skateboards.
Competitive Skateboarding
While most people skateboard for fun, some do it competitively. Professional skateboarders can compete in a variety of events. In downhill, skateboarders race down a hill against each other or against the clock. In slalom, they weave at breakneck speeds around plastic cones. Skateboarding teams compete in cross-country, with each member completing part of an obstacle course in the shortest possible time. In bowl riding, competitors perform tricks on the side walls of a circular cement bowl. In freestyle, competitors perform individual routines, which may include high jumps, handstands, and 360's (circles on one pair of wheels).
The popularity of both competitive and recreational skateboarding has led to the creation of special skateboard parks. These parks have concrete hills, bowls, flat areas, and sometimes cross-country courses where skateboarders can practice. Some of these parks have even been built indoors so that skateboarders can use them throughout the year.
Safe Skateboarding
Safety equipment is very important in skateboarding. Skateboarders out for fun or in competition should always wear it to help prevent serious injuries in case of falls. Skateboarders should also take care of their equipment and boards so that everything is in good working order.
