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Skateboards

The design of skateboards dates back to the 1930s and 40s, although they were first sold as retail items by Bill and Mark Richards at their California retail space, Val Surf Shops. After the skateboarding caught on with a large crowd of young enthusiasts, the 1960s saw a larger manufacturing effort that resulted in skateboards that were constructed out of solid wood, like those most common today, and also plastic and even metal.

Instead of having regulations on the sport and its equipment, skateboards and their features are completely controlled and designed by the manufacturer. This has provided for a large variation in dimensions and weight to be marketed to consumers. Although some basic dimensions have become common in skate stores around the world, even competitive skateboarders are free to purchase and ride whichever design suits them best.

Today, skateboards have evolved tremendously from the first models that were marketed in the 1960s. Modern decks are designed predominantly using moulded plywood that has a certain amount of concavity to provide for more control and accuracy in steering the board. Instead of the traditional clay or composite tires, modern skateboards are equipped with hardened rubber ones.

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