Irresistibly Interesting Facts about Skateboarding in 2020
Table of Content
Here is a list of some interesting facts about skateboarding that one must keep in mind.
1- Started as “sidewalk surfing”
Before getting well-known, skateboarding was seen here and there around local neighborhoods. Most people used to acknowledge it as a sidewalk surfer. Knowing this, the idea was to recreate the charm of surfing on land.
Kids used to surf down the small hills around their neighborhood with their skateboards.
2- Bearings determine speed
So many people assume that it’s the wheel or build quality that is supposed to determine how fast you have the ability to move. Nevertheless, studies have determined that it’s the bearings that play a pivotal role in this context. In order to lead to a faster skateboard, you are supposed to set the bearings higher.
3- Initials users remained shoeless
Initially, people were more prone to went out shoeless on a skateboard. It is to be kept in mind that the sole purpose was to recreate cruising on land and that’s done without any sort of footwear. This referred that people would pick their board, take their shoe/socks off, and set out for a quick ride.
4- Originally shaped like a rectangle
Originally it was not shaped like a circle as it is nowadays. It was a simple wooden plank(2×4)with the wheels attached to it. After a course of time, designers came to know the importance of speed, balance, and durability. However, for a long passage of time skateboards remained simple planks of wood.
5- Goofy stance named after Disney character
You may have heard over time this term “goofy” when it comes to skateboarding. This is when you put your right foot forward instead of your left foot. In essence, it was named after Goofy had to do with how he would use a skateboard in the show.
6- Many skateboarders are ambidextrous
Skateboarders manage to use both of their rights and left foot with equal skill. Due to the excess of the practice being put in, skateboarders perform well with both sides compared to an average person. With the passage of time, they excel in doing tricks without even thinking twice.
7- Longest “Olie” was 16 feet and 6inches
Doing tricks has always been an important part of skateboarding. In this context, so many people have tried to make new records around the world, including a man, named Jordan Hoffart. He was capable of hitting a 16ft.6inches ollie.
8- First skateboarding shoe was created in 1965
The first skateboarding shoe was invented in 1965 and given the title “Randy 720”. The name of its creator company was Randolph rubber company and it was well-known for its peculiarity (i.e. flat outsole). After that, so many other companies came into being including another well-reputed company named Vans.
9- Skate stoppers have become common
Due to so many skateboarders doing and competing for various skating tricks in public areas,” skate stoppers” were set up to stop such behavior. These are often noticed around public areas specifically in parks in order to make sure that people don’t get disturbed by getting onto the rails and mantles.
10- Skate parks are in every country
Astonishingly, there are local skate parks set up in almost every country to facilitate the skateboarders. This mind-boggling fact shows the immense popularity of this sport. It is continuously growing with each passing day.
11- 3.100 skate parks in the USA
America is the central point of skateboarding and has developed this action sport into one of the biggest activities around the world. It has nearly 3,100 skate parks. California is known for having the finest skate parks in the world.
12- 176 skateboarding injuries per day in America
Being injured or getting bruised walks along with every sport but it is seen to be remarkable in skating. Skateboarding injuries happen all the time whether it’s falling off a rail while doing tricks or simply tripping over a bump. Consequently, over 176 skateboarding injuries are recorded every single day in America. This puts emphasis on how important safety gear is.
13- Skateboards were used in wars
Back in the late ’90s, Us military brought up in skateboards to move around congested areas where other vehicles couldn’t get in. this continued until it became harder to manage in combat situations.
14- $5 billion industry
Skateboarding is not a negligible industry that is supposed to earn very less. In fact, it earns around $5billion (USD) every single year!
This fact emphasizes the doability of this action sport and how much it’s been adopted around the globe. With passing time, it continues to become more and more favorite among different segments of society. Everyone is immensely getting interested in skateboarding whether it’s boys or girls. You can also find a good skateboard under $300.
Final Words about Irresistibly Interesting Facts about Skateboarding
Each of the above-mentioned facts provides information about the fascination of this sport and why it has become such a worldwide rapidly adopted and flourished activity. Whether you choose to ride in your own place or you prefer going park, it is going to be a great, full of a fun journey for you and your friends. Also, have a look at the belt-driven skateboards.
Christina Mark is the admin and senior editor at ridetowheels.com. She loves to do research about the two wheels vehicles. She also has a large collection of hoverboards, skateboards, and electric scooters.
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