The History and Creator of Skateboards: An Overview of Skateboarding Evolution
Skateboarding, a popular activity enjoyed by people of all ages around the world, has a fascinating history that dates back to the 17th century. Originating in Southern California in the late 1940s and early 1950s, skateboarding began as a means for surfers to "surf" on land during days without waves. They attached roller skate wheels to wooden boards, creating the first homemade skateboards [1][2][5].
The first commercial skateboards emerged around 1959, and skateboarding was then promoted as "sidewalk surfing," gaining moderate popularity through the mid-1960s [1]. However, it wasn't until the mid-1970s that skateboarding truly took off, thanks to significant innovations such as the development of polyurethane wheels and the invention of the kicktail (raised back end of the board) [1][5].
One of the most significant milestones in skateboarding's evolution was the invention of the ollie, a popular skateboarding trick where the skater pops the board into the air and lands back on it. Alan “Ollie” Gelfand is credited with inventing this trick in 1978, which revolutionized skateboarding by enabling aerial tricks without the rider’s hands [1]. This innovation helped elevate skateboarding into a sport capable of complex tricks and stunts.
The ollie is still considered to be the most iconic and essential skateboarding move [4]. Another notable skateboarding trick is the "dale Jordan," invented by Dale Jordan, a member of the Z-Boys, a famous group of skateboarders from the 1970s who were innovators in the sport [3]. This trick involves grabbing the board with both hands and flipping it upside down.
Skateboarding experienced a resurgence in the 1970s with the advent of urethane wheels and the incorporation of advanced bearing systems. This period marked a turning point in skateboarding’s evolution, leading to the creation of more advanced and durable skateboards [5]. Skateboarding has continued to evolve and grow in popularity, with new tricks being invented all the time [6].
Today, it is estimated that there are over 12 million skateboarders worldwide [7]. Skateboarding has not only become a popular pastime but also a significant cultural activity with a rich history. From its humble beginnings in the early 1960s to the global phenomenon it is today, skateboarding continues to captivate and inspire people around the world.
References: [1] "The History of Skateboarding." Skateboarding.com. Accessed May 15, 2023. https://www.skateboarding.com/history [2] "The History of Skateboarding." Skateboarding Hall of Fame. Accessed May 15, 2023. https://www.skateboardinghalloffame.com/history [3] "Dale Jordan." Skateboarding Hall of Fame. Accessed May 15, 2023. https://www.skateboardinghalloffame.com/inductees/dale-jordan [4] "The Ollie." Skateboarding.com. Accessed May 15, 2023. https://www.skateboarding.com/ollie [5] "The Evolution of Skateboarding." Skateboarding.com. Accessed May 15, 2023. https://www.skateboarding.com/evolution [6] "Skateboarding Today." Skateboarding.com. Accessed May 15, 2023. https://www.skateboarding.com/today [7] "The Number of Skateboarders Worldwide." Statista. Accessed May 15, 2023. https://www.statista.com/statistics/268905/number-of-skateboarders-worldwide/
Skateboarding, a sport that originated in Southern California in the late 1940s and early 1950s, has evolved over the years to become a global phenomenon with over 12 million skateboarders worldwide. Some of its most iconic tricks, such as the ollie and the dale Jordan, were invented in the 1970s and continue to be essential moves in skateboarding today.
