The history of skimboarding
Skimboarding was invented around 1920 in Laguna Beach, California. Lifeguards George Griffeth and his friend Jimmy built round discs out of redwood and used them to glide across the water. These boards were later expanded into ovals to better ride the waves that broke right on the shore.
In the early years, the sport was called "skidboarding". It was not until 1976, when Victoria Skimboards was founded, that the name changed to skimboarding.
Over time, two disciplines of skimboarding developed: wave skimboarding and flatland skimboarding. The sport quickly spread and gained popularity in Northwest Canada and Europe.
The first annual World Skimboarding Championships were held at Aliso Beach in 1976. In the 1980s, skimboards with fibreglass and resin coating were introduced, leading to a new chapter in the development of the sport.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, skimboarding went through a difficult phase, but later became popular again. Today, skimboarding is heavily influenced by surfing and skateboarding and has a growing fan base.
Skimboarding can be practised regardless of wave or wind conditions and requires only a board, a shallow water area and some obstacles for advanced tricks.
The sport is managed by the International Surfing Association (ISA), but has yet to receive an official world championship. The United Skim Tour (UST) is the most successful skimboarding world championship, and the Vic is the oldest skimboarding competition, having been held since 1977.
Today, skimboards are technologically advanced, combining elements from the aerospace industry with craftsmanship. The most famous skimboard brands are Victoria Skimboards, Exile Skimboards and Zap Skimboards.
Skimboarding is a fascinating beach activity that combines both athletics and water sports. It requires special skills and techniques that are different from those of surfing.
For beginners, there are plenty of tips and advice to help you get started with the sport. With a high-quality skimboard, you can enjoy the exciting world of skimboarding.
