GG Skate

Women and the Inequalities of Professional Skateboarding

Barbora is a prominent figure in the world of women’s skateboarding, and her success highlights the persistent inequalities that exist within the sport. Despite the growing popularity of skateboarding, female athletes face numerous challenges and disparities compared to their male counterparts

One of the main inequalities is the lack of representation and visibility for women in skateboarding. Female skateboarders receive far less media coverage and sponsorship opportunities, which limits their exposure and hinders their ability to gain recognition and financial support. This disparity perpetuates the notion that skateboarding is primarily a male-dominated activity.

Additionally, there is a significant pay gap between male and female skateboarders. Prize money and endorsement deals for women’s skateboarding competitions are often significantly lower than those for men’s competitions. This not only discourages female skateboarders from pursuing the sport professionally but also devalues their talent and achievements.

Furthermore, women’s skateboarding often lacks proper infrastructure and resources. Skate parks, training facilities, and skateboarding programs are predominantly designed with male athletes in mind, making it more challenging for women to access suitable training environments. This lack of support and investment further contributes to the inequalities faced by female skateboarders.

“Doing this sweet thing called skateboarding.”

However, despite these inequalities, the rise of influential female skateboarders like Barbora is helping to challenge the status quo. They are breaking barriers, raising awareness, and advocating for change within the skateboarding community. Increased media coverage, the creation of women’s skateboarding events and leagues, and the efforts of organizations promoting gender equality in sports are all steps towards addressing the inequalities faced by women in skateboarding.

“In my defense, I was left unsupervised.”

It is crucial to continue supporting and celebrating female skateboarders like Barbora, as their success not only inspires other women to pursue skateboarding but also sheds light on the need for equality and inclusivity in the sport. By addressing the underlying issues and working towards a more equitable future, we can strive for a skateboarding community that values and supports athletes of all genders.