The world of skateboarding has long been dominated by men. When asked to name a famous skateboarder, most people are likely to answer Tony Hawk or Ryan Sheckler before they're able to name a single girl. I've been interested in skateboarding since I was in middle school and it's always been tough to try to find a female skateboarder to look up to. But that is rapidly changing. The numbers of girl skaters are growing and they're creating their own amazing culture. Read on to learn about a few of the coolest female skateboarders out there!
Patti McGee. If you don't know the OG Betty of skateboarding, you're missing out on some major history. McGee was the first female professional skater and set the record for fastest girl on a skateboard in 1964. She was also the first female inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame. She was a major influence for the future of girl skateboarders and a must-know for anyone. Super cool bonus: you can watch her prowess with a board on this clip from the Mike Douglas show.
Alana Smith. At just 16 years old, Alana Smith is an amazingly accomplished skateboarder. Her accolades in just 16 years of life include being the first female to land a McTwist in a competition and the youngest competitor to medal in the X Games. I'm pretty sure I was nowhere near as cool when I was 16. You can keep up with her latest boarding feats on her instagram (which I may or may not follow religiously).
Amelia Brodka. Besides being a long-time skater and competing in events like the X Games, Brodka has brought a lot to the female skateboarders community. In 2013, she released a documentary that recognized women's skateboarding and analyzed the treatment of women in the skateboarding community. Titled "Underexposed" the film looks into the media and industry that drive the skateboarding community and their approach to female boarders. Brodka used this amazing platform to strive towards making more opportunities for girls who want to enter the skating world.
Cara-Beth Burnside. This girl can do it all. Not only does she skateboard, but she snowboards as well. She's won more than 16 titles in skateboarding competitions and medaled in the X Games with her snowboarding. She is also the first woman skater to have her own signature skate shoe. There's no question why Burnside is listed as an inspiration by many female skateboarders, including some of the ones mentioned previously.
These are only a few of many betties out there turning heads in the skateboarding universe. If these skating girls have got you interested, check out this article from Nylon on all girl skateboard crews. The only thing better than female skateboarders is female skateboarders banding together to support each other and a fun and inclusive environment for the sport. You can also find more information at the Girls Skate Network. Support your local girl skaterboarders!
