Skateboarding in the 90s: A Look Back

The Birth of Skateboarding

Skateboarding has been around since the 1950s, but it wasn't until the 90s that it really took off. Skateboarding started as a way for surfers to practice when the waves were flat. They would attach wheels to a piece of wood and ride it like a surfboard on the pavement. By the 90s, skateboarding had become a legitimate sport with professional skaters and competitions.

Skateboarding History

The Skateboard Deck

The skateboard deck is the most important part of the skateboard. It's the flat piece of wood that you stand on and ride. In the 90s, skateboard decks were wider and longer than they are today. They were made of seven-ply Canadian maple and had a concave shape that made it easier to do tricks.

Skateboard Deck

The Wheels

The wheels on a skateboard are what make it move. In the 90s, skateboard wheels were smaller and harder than they are today. They were made of urethane and came in a variety of colors. Harder wheels were better for street skating because they allowed skaters to slide and grind on rails and curbs.

Skateboard Wheels

The Trucks

The trucks on a skateboard are what connect the wheels to the deck. In the 90s, skateboard trucks were wider and taller than they are today. They were made of aluminum and had a kingpin that allowed the skater to adjust how loose or tight the trucks were.

Skateboard Trucks

The Skateboarding Culture

The 90s was a great time for skateboarding culture. Skaters were seen as rebels who pushed the limits of what was possible on a skateboard. Skateboarding videos and magazines were popular, and skateparks started popping up all over the world. Skaters would often gather in groups to skate and hang out.

Skateboarding Culture

The Pro Skaters

The 90s had some of the greatest professional skateboarders of all time. Tony Hawk, Rodney Mullen, and Steve Caballero were just a few of the skaters who dominated the sport. They were known for their innovative tricks and their ability to push the limits of what was possible on a skateboard.

Tony Hawk

The Trick Names

The 90s was a time when new tricks were being invented every day. Skaters would often name the tricks after themselves or their friends. Some of the most popular trick names from the 90s include the kickflip, heelflip, and ollie.

Kickflip

The Music

Skateboarding and punk rock music have always gone hand in hand. In the 90s, bands like Blink-182, Green Day, and NOFX were popular among skaters. Their fast-paced, high-energy music was the perfect soundtrack for skating.

Punk Rock Music

The Fashion

Skateboarding fashion in the 90s was all about baggy clothes and bold colors. Skaters would wear oversized T-shirts, baggy shorts, and colorful sneakers. The more colorful and outrageous the outfit, the better.

Skateboarding Fashion

The Video Games

Skateboarding video games became popular in the 90s. Games like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater and Skate or Die! allowed players to perform tricks and compete in virtual skateboarding competitions. These games were a huge hit among skaters and non-skaters alike.