How to Research Skateboards

Skateboarding is not only a popular outdoor activity among youths but a professional sport contested around the world. With professional skateboarders Tony Hawk and Shaun White leading the way, skateboarding has grown from a recreational activity to an internationally televised competition at venues such as the X Games. In researching the history of skateboards, popular techniques, the sport's athletes and other facts about the activity, several Internet sites, books and international organizations can provide useful information.

Things You'll Need

  • Computer with Internet access
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Instructions

    • 1

      Hit the Internet. There are several online stores and other types of sites that provide information on skateboards and the sport itself. If you are looking for specific information about skateboards, online sites that sell skateboards can provide descriptions, such as their dimensions, hardware and wheels. If you are looking for background information about skateboards or upcoming events that involve skateboards, try the websites of local and national organizations. The National Skateboard Association, for example, lists future events and keeps skateboarders up to date on the latest happenings in the industry.

    • 2

      Read a book. There are several books published that discuss skateboards and techniques that can be used while riding them. Several national retailers sell these books online or in stores, and libraries have some of them as well. Examples of books include "The Disposable Skateboard Bible" and "Boards: The Art and Design of the Skateboard."

    • 3

      Read a magazine. There are several skateboard magazines on the market that focus on the sport of skateboarding as well as the latest technological advances in manufacturing skateboards. Thrasher Magazine and Skateboarder Magazine both have print copies and websites that feature information.

    • 4

      Go to a skateboard store and speak to a professional involved in the industry. If you have a skateboarding store in or near your community, speaking to someone who works with skateboards on a daily basis may provide you with the information you are looking for regarding skateboards.

    • 5

      Talk to fellow skateboarders. Some of the best advice and research can come from people experienced in riding skateboards. If you don't know people who skateboard, try hanging out at a local skateboard park if your community has one, or look up skateboarding events scheduled in the area. Skateboarding stores may post fliers of upcoming local events. Also, check national websites, such as the National Skateboard Association, for listed competitions.