Today’s “in” scene is yesterday’s “rebels”, and activities like skateboarding have become popular in the mainstream. Skate parks are appearing all over, as are skateboarders. While the number of skateboarders is growing, and the young, adventurous crowd that makes up those numbers is trying to exceed each other in skill, and those who are truly talent, and committed, can become professional skateboarders.
Between the people who’ve taken up skateboarding in hopes of becoming “a pro”, those who enjoy it as a pastime, a hobby, or a chance for exercise, and those that simply use skateboarding as cheap or eco-friendly transportation, industry and corporations stand to, and are, making a lot of money in this new market.
Although competing in skateboarding tournaments can result in winnings and recognition for the skateboarder, as in many sports, the “real” money for the athlete is in endorsements. Advertising has always been a money-making industry, and promoting skateboarding equipment, as a professional skateboarder, is the “pot of gold at the end of the rainbow”.
The rainbow starts at home, where practice and an increasing repertoire lead to high placements at tournaments. Followed by recognition from a product company, which gives the aspiring professional boarder free products to use. Then if a skateboarder can achieve fame amongst the viewers and crowd, companies will talk endorsement deals – where the skateboarder gets money to use or advertise a company’s products. Big money makers, for both companies and endorsers, are shoes and apparel.
Like any sport, dreaming of being a professional sports player is fine, but getting there requires hard-work and talent, and as in any job, hopefully enjoyment in the day to day effort. But for those who can achieve the level of professional, skateboarding can have much great personal and financial rewards.
Written by Skate Punk -
Skate Shop