Skateboarding has evolved from a niche sport to a global trend, captivating tweens everywhere. Once considered a hobby for a select group, skateboarding is now an exciting, accessible, and community-oriented activity. It’s no wonder that tweens are embracing skateboarding as their favorite pastime.
Let’s explore why skateboarding has become so popular with tweens, what’s driving the trend, and how your child can get started with the right gear and boards.
From a Niche Sport to a Mainstream Trend Popular with Tweens Around the World
Skateboarding, which began in the 1950s as a way for surfers to practice their moves on land, quickly grew in popularity. Throughout the years, it became not just a sport, but a lifestyle. Today, skateboarding is embraced by tweens around the world, with many seeing it as a fun and cool way to express themselves.
Pop culture plays a huge role in the sport’s resurgence, from movies featuring iconic skateboarders to collaborations with major brands. As skateboarding becomes more visible in the media, it inspires more kids to pick up a board.
What’s Behind the Skateboarding Trend
Several factors are contributing to skateboarding’s increasing popularity among tweens. Let’s take a look at some of the driving forces behind this trend.
Pop Culture and Fashion
Skateboarding has always been closely linked with fashion. The laid-back skater style, with baggy jeans, graphic tees, and sneakers, is a major influence on tweens today. Social media also amplifies this trend, with Instagram and TikTok full of skaters showing off their moves and outfits, making skateboarding more aspirational.
Olympic Spotlight
Skateboarding’s inclusion in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics gave the sport a global spotlight. Professional skateboarders like Nyjah Huston and Sky Brown became role models, showcasing the sport as something to strive for. This new recognition has made skateboarding even more appealing to tweens.
Community Skate Parks
The growth of local skate parks has made skateboarding more accessible. Many cities and towns have invested in skate parks, giving kids a place to learn, practice, and meet other skaters. These spaces foster a sense of community, where skaters can bond over shared interests.
Minimal Equipment Needed
Skateboarding is appealing because it requires minimal equipment—just a board and a safe place to ride. This makes it a more accessible sport for tweens, allowing them to enjoy it without needing expensive gear or special facilities.
Active Lifestyle
Skateboarding promotes physical activity and gets tweens outside and moving. As kids spend more time indoors with digital devices, skateboarding provides an engaging alternative that encourages them to stay active while having fun.
The Strong Sense of Community in Skateboarding Culture
One of the best things about skateboarding is the strong sense of community it creates. Tweens who get into skateboarding often find themselves surrounded by other skaters who share their passion. Whether it’s at a local skate park or online, skateboarding provides opportunities for social interaction and lasting friendships.
The supportive nature of skateboarding communities allows even beginners to feel welcome. As they progress, tweens learn new tricks and gain confidence, becoming part of a group that encourages each other.
What Tweens Have to Say About Skateboarding
Why do tweens love skateboarding? We looked at online forums like Reddit and Quora to see what real kids have to say about the sport.
Stress Reliever
Many tweens say that skateboarding helps them relieve stress. It gives them an outlet for tension and provides a fun way to unwind after a challenging day.
Easy to Make Friends
Skateboarding is a great way for tweens to make new friends. By joining skate parks or following skateboarding communities online, tweens easily find others who share their love of the sport.
Learning a Skill
Skateboarding is all about learning new skills. Tweens enjoy the challenge of mastering new tricks, from ollies to kickflips. The sense of accomplishment when they succeed builds confidence and a sense of pride.
Self-Expression & Freedom
Skateboarding is a form of self-expression. Tweens can develop their own unique style through their riding techniques and tricks. It gives them the freedom to express themselves in a way that feels personal and creative.
Accessible
Skateboarding is an accessible sport for kids of all backgrounds and skill levels. Whether they’re beginners or more advanced, there’s a place for everyone in skateboarding.
Our Top Skateboard Picks to Ride the Trend
If your tween is ready to join the skateboard trend, here are two great options to help them get started:
Trick Cruiser Board Set
This board is perfect for beginners and intermediate riders. With a durable design and smooth riding experience, it’s ideal for those looking to learn new tricks or cruise around with friends.
Trick Cruiser Trainer Board Set
For new skaters, this trainer board offers extra support to help them build confidence. It’s designed to make learning the basics easier before progressing to more advanced moves.
Shop Trick Cruiser Trainer Board Set
Safety Gear Essentials
Before your tween hits the pavement, ensure they have the proper safety gear. The right protective equipment will help prevent injuries and give you peace of mind.
Helmet
A CPSC-certified helmet is essential to protect your tween’s head in case of falls.
Knee and Elbow Pads
Pads are crucial for protecting joints, especially when learning new tricks or riding on rough surfaces.
Wrist Guards
Wrist injuries are common, so wrist guards are important for preventing sprains and fractures.
The Future of the Skateboard Trend
With its growing popularity, skateboarding is here to stay. As more tweens embrace the sport, skateboarding will continue to evolve and inspire a new generation of skaters. The combination of fun, fitness, and community ensures that skateboarding remains an exciting trend for years to come.
Whether your tween is just starting out or already mastering tricks, skateboarding is an activity that can bring joy, skill-building, and lasting friendships. Get ready to ride the wave of the skateboard trend!
