Skate through the ages

1950s
California surfers began to take their boards to the streets in what became known as “sidewalk surfing.”


1960s
Skateboarding became a craze, as manufacturer Makaha sold $4 million skateboards from 1963 to 1965. The trend faded away by 1966, however.


1973
Manufacturer Frank Nasworthy introduced the polyurethane wheel to skateboarding, which provided more traction than the clay wheels. Other manufacturers following Nasworthy allowed skaters to have more freedom in tricks.



1976
The first outdoor skateboard park was built in Florida.




1978
Alan Gelfand invented the “ollie,” a no-hands aerial move that revolutionized the sport.




1981
Thrasher Magazine began publication and served as a resource for skateboarders.




1995
ESPN’s Extreme Games, now called X Games, featured skateboarding amongst its competitions, which helped the sport gain even more exposure.




2007
Talks arose about incorporating skateboarding into the 2012 Olympic Games in London, which gained mixed opinions. In the end, the International Olympic Committee did not approve it.


2008
“Deathbowl to Downtown,” a film that will explore the history of skateboarding in New York City, will be released nationally in the fall. Actress Chloe Sevigny is the narrator.