Best Female Skateboarders in the World and How to Start Skating

In the world of skateboarding, a new wave of talented and fearless female skateboarders is challenging norms and redefining the sport. These women are breaking barriers, defying expectations, and inspiring a new generation of skateboarders. This article explores the lives and achievements of professional women skateboarders, highlighting their impact, the challenges they've overcome, and the opportunities they are creating. Join us as we celebrate the rise of these remarkable athletes and their enduring influence on the skateboarding community.

Best Female Skaters of all Time

There have been many exceptional female skateboarders who have made significant contributions to the sport. While it's challenging to determine the "best" female skaters of all time due to the subjective nature of such rankings, here are a few notable figures who have achieved remarkable success and recognition:

Elissa Steamer

Elissa Steamer is often regarded as one of the most influential female skateboarders of all time. She turned pro in the early 1990s and played a crucial role in breaking barriers for women in skateboarding. Steamer's powerful and aggressive style made her a standout skater, and she paved the way for future generations of female skateboarders.

Leticia Bufoni

Leticia Bufoni is a Brazilian skateboarder known for her technical skills and consistency. She has won multiple X Games gold medals and other prestigious contests, and she has been a dominant force in street skateboarding for years. Bufoni's versatility and dedication have solidified her status as one of the best female skaters in the world.

Pamela Rosa

Hailing from Brazil, Pamela Rosa is another remarkable skateboarder in the world of street skateboarding. She has achieved numerous victories in major competitions, including the Street League Skateboarding (SLS) Women's World Championship in 2019. Rosa's style is characterized by her technical prowess and ability to perform complex tricks with precision.

Lizzie Armanto

Lizzie Armanto is a Finnish-American skateboarder known for her exceptional talent in transition skateboarding. She has been a trailblazer in women's vertical skateboarding and has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the discipline. Armanto has won several competitions and is widely respected for her creativity and progressive approach to skateboarding.

Vanessa Torres

Vanessa Torres is an influential figure in women's skateboarding. She turned pro in 2003 and has since become known for her smooth style and technical abilities. Torres has competed in multiple X Games events and has consistently showcased her skills in various skate videos, inspiring aspiring female skaters around the world.

These are just a few notable names in the world of female skateboarding, but there are many more talented and inspiring skaters who have left their mark on the sport. It's important to recognize and celebrate the diverse range of talents and contributions that female skateboarders have made to the skateboarding community.

Hardship That Women Has Faced in the Skateboard Community

Being a woman in the world of skateboarding can come with a unique set of challenges. Throughout history, skateboarding has predominantly been a male-dominated sport, resulting in a lack of representation for women. This lack of visibility can make it difficult for female skateboarders to find role models, connect with a supportive community, and feel included in the skateboarding world.

Gender stereotypes surrounding skateboarding can also be an obstacle for women. Society often perpetuates the notion that skateboarding is primarily a male activity, leading to biases and misconceptions. Female skateboarders may face skepticism or be judged based on their gender rather than their skills. Overcoming these stereotypes and proving oneself as a capable skateboarder can require additional effort and determination.

Another challenge is the limited access to resources. In some areas, there may be a scarcity of skateparks, proper facilities, or skateboarding programs specifically designed for women. This lack of resources can make it more difficult for women to progress in their skateboarding journey and hinder their ability to fully engage with the skateboarding community.

Furthermore, there can be disparities in terms of pay and sponsorship opportunities between male and female skateboarders. The gender pay gap is prevalent in many sports, including skateboarding, where male skaters often receive more significant endorsement deals and higher prize money. This discrepancy can hinder the financial stability and career advancement of female skateboarders.

Safety concerns and street harassment are additional challenges that women skateboarders may face. Unfortunately, public spaces are not always welcoming or safe for female skaters. Instances of street harassment can be discouraging and create an unwelcome environment for women to fully enjoy and express themselves through skateboarding.

Moreover, female skateboarders often experience pressure to balance societal expectations of femininity with their passion for skateboarding. Navigating the stereotypes and expectations of how women should behave or look while pursuing a male-dominated sport can be a challenge. Striking a balance between challenging gender norms and staying true to their own identities can be an ongoing struggle.

Despite these challenges, many women continue to push through and excel in skateboarding, breaking down barriers and inspiring others. Efforts to promote inclusivity, representation, and equal opportunities within the skateboarding community are gradually making strides to address these hardships. Organizations, events, and initiatives focused on elevating and supporting female skateboarders are emerging, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in skateboarding. With these positive changes, the future looks brighter for women skateboarders, as they continue to redefine the sport and inspire generations to come.

The First Female Professional Skateboarder

Patti McGee, born on August 23, 1945, in Santa Monica, California, is a pioneer in the world of skateboarding. She began skateboarding in the early 1960s, at a time when the sport was primarily dominated by males. McGee's passion for skateboarding and her exceptional skills quickly set her apart.

In 1964, McGee won the Women's National Skateboard Championship held in Santa Monica, making her the first recognized female champion in the sport. This achievement gained her considerable attention and helped to popularize skateboarding among women. Her success led to numerous media appearances, including being featured on the cover of Life magazine in 1965. The cover photo, which showed her gracefully gliding down a hill on her skateboard, became an iconic image of the era.

McGee's influence extended beyond her achievements as a skater. She was a style icon, known for her fashionable outfits and her trademark blue helmet. McGee embraced her femininity and challenged traditional gender roles, showcasing that women could excel in a sport predominantly associated with men.

After her competitive skateboarding career, McGee remained involved in the sport. She traveled as part of a skateboarding demonstration team and continued to inspire and motivate others, especially young women, to take up skateboarding. McGee's pioneering contributions to women's skateboarding helped create opportunities for future generations of female skaters, and her impact on the sport cannot be overstated.

Patti McGee's legacy as the first professional women skateboarder continues to inspire and empower women in the skateboarding community. Her trailblazing achievements opened doors for countless female athletes who followed in her footsteps, and many look at her as the first female skater.

Upcoming Best Female Skateboarders

1. Sky Brown: Born in 2008, Sky Brown is a British-Japanese skateboarder who gained international attention as the youngest professional skateboarder in the world. She has competed in various skateboarding competitions, including the X Games and the Olympics. Brown's fearless approach to skateboarding and her impressive skills have made her a role model for young aspiring skaters.

2. Rayssa Leal: Rayssa Leal, also known as "Fadinha," is a Brazilian skateboarder born in 2008. She gained widespread recognition after a video of her landing a heelflip down a set of stairs while wearing a fairy costume went viral. Leal won a silver medal in street skateboarding at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, becoming the youngest Olympic medalist in skateboarding history.

3. Brighton Zeuner: Brighton Zeuner, born in 2004, is an American skateboarder who has been dominating the women's skateboarding scene. She became the youngest gold medalist in X Games history at the age of 13 and has continued to excel in both park and bowl disciplines. Zeuner's powerful and technical skateboarding style has made her a force to be reckoned with.

4. Bryce Wettstein: Bryce Wettstein, born in 2004, is an American skateboarder known for her creativity and unique style. She excels in both park and bowl skateboarding and has competed in various international events, including the X Games. Wettstein's innovative tricks and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of women's skateboarding have earned her recognition in the skateboarding community.

5. Kokona Hiraki: Kokona Hiraki, born in 2008, is a Japanese skateboarder who made history by becoming the youngest Olympic medalist in skateboarding at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. She won a silver medal in park skateboarding at just 12 years old. Hiraki's technical skills and ability to tackle complex tricks have positioned her as a rising star in women's skateboarding.

These young female skateboarders represent the future of the sport, and their talent and passion continue to inspire and motivate skaters of all ages and genders around the world. It is amazing what they have done at such a young age and they will surely be one of the best female skateboarders in the world.

Skate Sponsors That are Great at Supporting Women

These are just a few examples of skateboard brands and companies that actively support and sponsor women in skateboarding. The recognition and support from these sponsors help create opportunities for female skateboarders to showcase their talents, gain exposure, and pursue their skateboarding careers.

Meow Skateboards

Meow Skateboards is a brand dedicated to supporting women skateboarders. They have a diverse team of talented female skaters and offer a range of products specifically designed for women, including decks, apparel, and accessories.

Hoopla Skateboards

Hoopla Skateboards focuses on promoting and supporting female skateboarders of all ages and skill levels. They offer a variety of skateboard decks and products tailored to women, and their team consists of talented female riders.

Vans

Vans, a well-known skateboarding brand, has been actively supporting women's skateboarding through various initiatives. They have sponsored and supported female skaters through their "Vanguards" program and events like the Vans Park Series Women's Division. They also collaborate with female skaters to create signature shoe models.

Nike SB

Nike SB has been making efforts to promote and support women in skateboarding. They have sponsored several talented female skaters and organized events like the "Women's Battle at the Berrics" to showcase and celebrate women's skateboarding.

Adidas Skateboarding

Adidas Skateboarding has been actively promoting inclusivity in skateboarding and supporting women skateboarders. They have sponsored female skaters and created initiatives like the "All Girls Skate Jam" to provide opportunities for women to showcase their skills.

Enjoi Skateboards

Enjoi Skateboards is a brand that supports and sponsors female skaters alongside their male team members. They have a diverse team and create skateboard decks, apparel, and accessories that cater to women skateboarders.

Girl Skateboards

While Girl Skateboards is known for their talented male team, they have also supported female skaters over the years. They have sponsored women skateboarders and featured them in their videos, highlighting their skills and contributions to the skateboarding community.

Tips to get Started as a Girl Skater

Remember, skateboarding is for everyone, and your gender should never hold you back. By taking these steps and immersing yourself in the skateboarding community, you can embark on an exciting journey as a female skateboarder. Enjoy the process, embrace the challenges, and have fun exploring the world of skateboarding!

1. Get the Right Gear: Start by getting the necessary skateboarding equipment. This includes a skateboard that suits your preferences and skill level, protective gear such as a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads, and appropriate skateboarding shoes. Make sure your skateboard is the right size and set up correctly to provide stability and control.

2. Find a Supportive Community: Seek out local skateboarding communities, groups, or skate parks that are inclusive and supportive of female skaters. Connecting with other skateboarders, especially women, can provide guidance, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Look for skateboarding clinics, camps, or workshops specifically tailored for beginners.

3. Learn the Basics: Start by learning the fundamental skateboarding skills, such as balance, pushing, and turning. Practice on flat, smooth surfaces like driveways or empty parking lots to build your confidence and improve your board control. Start with basic maneuvers like riding, stopping, and carving.

4. Take Skateboarding Lessons: Consider taking skateboarding lessons from experienced coaches or instructors who specialize in teaching beginners. They can provide guidance on proper technique, help you progress at a comfortable pace, and ensure you develop good habits from the start. These lessons can be valuable in building a strong foundation and improving your skills.

5. Practice Consistently: Skateboarding requires practice and perseverance. Dedicate regular time to skateboarding and practice various skills and tricks. Focus on improving your balance, mastering pushing, and gradually progressing to more advanced maneuvers. Be patient with yourself, as skateboarding takes time and effort to develop proficiency.

6. Learn from Online Resources: There are numerous online tutorials, instructional videos, and skateboarding forums that can provide valuable tips, tricks, and guidance for skaters of all levels. Take advantage of these resources to learn new techniques, understand skateboarding terminology, and gain insights from experienced skateboarders.

7. Embrace Your Individual Style: Skateboarding is an expressive and creative sport. Embrace your individuality and develop your unique style. Experiment with different tricks, find what resonates with you, and have fun exploring your own skateboarding identity. Remember, skateboarding is about self-expression and enjoying the process.

8. Stay Determined and Be Patient: Skateboarding can be challenging at times, but remember to stay determined and keep pushing yourself. Be patient with the learning process and celebrate your progress along the way. Don't be discouraged by setbacks or falls; they are part of the learning experience. Embrace them as opportunities for growth and learning.

Conclusion

The impact of professional women skateboarders extends beyond the skate park, challenging norms and inspiring a new generation of skateboarders. Their fearlessness, determination, and authenticity have shattered gender barriers and created a more inclusive skateboarding community. As we celebrate their achievements, let us continue to support and amplify the voices of women in skateboarding, pushing for equal opportunities and recognition. Together, we can keep the spirit of women's skateboarding alive, inspiring skateboarders of all genders to pursue their passions and break through boundaries.