Skateboard: History, Types, And How To Choose The Right One

Hey guys! Let's dive into the exciting world of skateboarding! Skateboarding isn't just a sport; it's a lifestyle, an art form, and a culture all rolled into one. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just thinking about picking up a board, there’s a ton to discover. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about skateboards, from their fascinating history to the different types available and how to choose the perfect one for you. So, grab your helmet, and let’s get rolling!

A Brief History of Skateboarding

Skateboarding's history is as dynamic and evolving as the sport itself. It’s wild to think that what we know today as skateboarding started with something as simple as attaching roller skate wheels to a wooden board. Imagine the surfers in California in the 1950s, looking for something to do when the waves were flat – that’s essentially where it all began. They called it “sidewalk surfing,” and it quickly caught on. Early skateboards were pretty basic, often just wooden planks with metal roller skate wheels, but they were enough to get the ball rolling.

The 1960s brought the first commercial skateboards, and the sport started to gain serious traction. Companies began experimenting with different materials and designs, trying to make boards that were more durable and easier to ride. Skateparks started popping up, and skateboarding contests became a thing. However, this initial boom was short-lived. By the late 60s, interest waned, partly due to safety concerns and the limitations of the equipment. Early boards were hard to control, and injuries were common.

Then came the 1970s, a pivotal decade for skateboarding. This era saw a massive resurgence in popularity, driven by technological advancements and a new wave of innovative skaters. The biggest game-changer was the invention of polyurethane wheels. These new wheels provided much better grip and a smoother ride compared to the old metal or clay wheels. This meant skaters could go faster, perform more complex tricks, and have more control. Skateparks experienced a renaissance, and skateboarding culture started to take shape. Iconic skaters like Tony Alva and the Z-Boys emerged, pushing the boundaries of what was possible on a board. Their aggressive style and innovative tricks helped to define the era. The 70s also saw the rise of vert skateboarding, with skaters tackling empty swimming pools and creating a whole new dimension of the sport. The urethane wheel was such a significant innovation because it allowed for a smoother, faster, and more controlled ride. This made tricks easier to learn and execute, opening up a whole new world of possibilities for skaters. The improved grip meant skaters could carve turns more effectively and maintain speed, while the smoother ride made skating on rough surfaces less jarring. This technological leap propelled skateboarding into its next phase of development.

The 1980s brought a more raw and rebellious attitude to skateboarding. Street skating began to emerge as a distinct discipline. Instead of just skating in parks or pools, skaters started using urban environments as their playgrounds, incorporating stairs, handrails, and other obstacles into their routines. This era also saw the rise of legendary figures like Tony Hawk, whose groundbreaking tricks and charismatic personality helped to popularize the sport on a global scale. Skateboarding videos became a major source of inspiration, showcasing the latest tricks and styles. Companies focused on building their brands and sponsoring teams of pro skaters. Music and fashion became intertwined with skateboarding culture, creating a unique identity that resonated with many young people. The 1980s were a time of significant growth and evolution for skateboarding, laying the foundation for the modern sport we know today. The do-it-yourself ethos of street skating challenged the established norms and fostered a creative, anything-is-possible mentality. This era also saw the development of new board shapes and sizes, tailored specifically for street skating. The influence of the 1980s can still be seen in skateboarding today, with many of the trends and styles from that era continuing to inspire skaters.

The 1990s witnessed skateboarding reaching mainstream popularity. The sport gained greater media attention, and pro skaters became household names. Skateboarding video games, like the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater series, introduced the sport to a wider audience. Skateboarding appeared in movies, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in popular culture. This increased exposure led to more funding and sponsorship opportunities for skaters, as well as the construction of more public skateparks. The 1990s also saw the development of more technical tricks and a greater emphasis on style. Skaters like Rodney Mullen pushed the boundaries of what was possible with flatground tricks, inventing many of the moves that are still performed today. The growth of skateboarding in the 1990s helped to legitimize the sport and pave the way for its inclusion in major sporting events. The decade's influence can be seen in the increased accessibility of skateboarding and the greater recognition of skaters as athletes. This period marked a turning point for skateboarding, transforming it from a counter-culture activity into a mainstream phenomenon.

Today, skateboarding is a global phenomenon. It made its debut as an Olympic sport in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, marking a significant milestone in its history. Skateboarding encompasses various styles and disciplines, from street skating to vert, park, and downhill. There’s a vibrant community of skaters around the world, connected by their shared passion for riding. Whether you're cruising around your neighborhood or competing at the highest level, skateboarding offers something for everyone. It's a sport that encourages creativity, perseverance, and self-expression. The evolution of skateboarding from its humble beginnings to its current status is a testament to the enduring appeal of this dynamic activity. It continues to evolve, with new tricks, styles, and technologies constantly emerging. Skateboarding's future looks bright, with its growing popularity and its recognition as a legitimate sport.

Types of Skateboards

When you're looking to get into skateboarding, one of the first things you'll realize is that there are a ton of different types of skateboards out there. Each type is designed for a specific style of riding, so understanding the differences is key to finding the right board for you. Let's break down some of the most common types:

Standard Skateboards

Standard skateboards are what most people picture when they think of a skateboard. These are the go-to boards for street skating and park riding. They typically measure around 30-32 inches long and 7.5-8.5 inches wide, offering a good balance of stability and maneuverability. The concave shape of the deck (the curve from edge to edge) helps with foot control and trick performance. These boards are designed for doing tricks like ollies, kickflips, and grinds. The components of a standard skateboard include the deck, trucks (the axles that hold the wheels), wheels, bearings, and grip tape (the sandpaper-like material on top of the deck that provides traction). Each of these components can be customized to suit your preferences and riding style. For example, harder wheels are better for street skating, while softer wheels are better for cruising. The size and shape of the deck can also affect how the board feels and performs. A wider deck provides more stability, while a narrower deck is easier to flip. Standard skateboards are versatile and suitable for a wide range of skaters, from beginners to advanced riders. They are a great choice for anyone who wants to learn tricks and progress in the sport. The key to choosing the right standard skateboard is to consider your skill level, riding style, and personal preferences. It's also important to invest in quality components, as they will last longer and perform better. With the right board, you can start learning the basics and working your way up to more advanced tricks. The possibilities are endless, and the journey of skateboarding is a rewarding one.

Longboards

Longboards are like the chill cousins of standard skateboards. They're longer (usually 35 inches or more) and designed for cruising, carving, and downhill riding. If you're into smooth rides and flowing turns, a longboard might be your jam. They are known for their stability and smooth ride, making them perfect for longer distances and mellow cruising. The length of a longboard provides a more stable platform, while the larger, softer wheels offer a smoother ride over rough surfaces. There are several different types of longboards, each designed for a specific style of riding. Drop-through longboards have trucks that are mounted through the deck, lowering the center of gravity and increasing stability. These are popular for downhill riding and high-speed cruising. Pintail longboards have a classic surfboard shape and are great for carving and cruising. They typically have a longer wheelbase, which provides more stability at higher speeds. Kicktail longboards have a kicktail (an upturned end) that allows for more maneuverability and tricks. These are a good choice for riders who want to mix cruising with some trick riding. Longboards are also popular for transportation, as they are a fun and efficient way to get around town. Many people use longboards to commute to work or school, or simply to enjoy a leisurely ride along the boardwalk. The versatility and smooth ride of longboards make them a great choice for riders of all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner looking for a stable platform to learn on or an experienced rider looking for a smooth and stylish ride, a longboard can be a great addition to your quiver. The key is to choose the right type of longboard for your riding style and preferences. With the right board, you can enjoy the freedom and exhilaration of longboarding.

Cruiser Skateboards

Cruiser skateboards are like the hybrid cars of the skateboard world – they blend the functionality of a standard skateboard with the comfort of a longboard. These boards are typically shorter than longboards but longer than standard skateboards, making them perfect for getting around town and cruising. They often feature softer wheels for a smoother ride and a kicktail for some added maneuverability. This makes them ideal for navigating city streets, dodging pedestrians, and handling unexpected obstacles. Cruiser skateboards are designed to be versatile and fun, offering a blend of performance and practicality. The softer wheels absorb bumps and cracks in the pavement, providing a more comfortable ride than standard skateboards. The kicktail allows you to pop the board over curbs and other obstacles, while the wider deck provides more stability and control. Many cruiser skateboards also feature a comfortable concave shape, which helps with foot placement and control. This makes them a great choice for beginners who are still learning the basics of skateboarding. Cruiser skateboards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from mini-cruisers that are easy to carry around to larger cruisers that offer more stability. Some cruisers even feature a drop-through design, which lowers the center of gravity and makes the board more stable at higher speeds. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or just enjoying a leisurely ride, a cruiser skateboard can be a fun and efficient way to get around. They are also a great option for skaters who want a board that is easy to ride and maintain. The versatility and practicality of cruiser skateboards make them a popular choice for riders of all ages and skill levels. With the right cruiser, you can explore your city, get some exercise, and have a lot of fun along the way.

Penny Boards

Penny boards are the quirky, compact cousins in the skateboard family. These are small, plastic skateboards that are super portable and fun to ride. They're named after the Australian company Penny Skateboards, which popularized this style of board. Penny boards are known for their bright colors, lightweight design, and smooth ride. They are made from a durable plastic material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. The small size of penny boards makes them easy to carry around, whether you're commuting to school, heading to the beach, or just cruising around town. They are also a great option for beginners, as the smaller deck can make it easier to learn the basics of balance and coordination. Penny boards typically come in two sizes: the original 22-inch and the larger 27-inch