If you’re reading this, chances are you’re a skater or just someone curious about the world of skateboarding. Either way, you’re in for a treat. In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the exhilarating world of how to make money skateboarding. You might be thinking, ‘Wait, what? A skateboarder? That’s not a real job, is it?’ Well, let me tell you, it absolutely is! From competing in world-renowned competitions to building your own brand and securing sponsorships, there are countless ways to turn your passion for skateboarding into a thriving career.
In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know to start your journey toward becoming a professional skateboarder, including tips for developing your skills, strategies for success in competitions, and even insights on how to negotiate sponsorships and endorsements.
What are the best ways to make money skateboarding?
There are several ways to make money through skateboarding. Here are some of the most common ways:
1. Become a sponsored skateboarder
Companies and brands will pay skateboarders to promote their products and represent them. This can include receiving free gear, travel opportunities, and compensation for competitions and events.
2. Become a professional skateboarder
Professional skateboarders are paid to compete in competitions and events, create content, and promote products. This requires a high level of skill, dedication, and hard work, but it can lead to significant financial opportunities.
3. Become a skateboard filmer or photographer
Skateboard filmers and photographers capture footage and images of skateboarders for use in marketing and promotional materials. They can work for companies or freelance and earn a significant income while still enjoying the benefits of skateboarding.
4. Start a skateboarding brand or shop
Entrepreneurial skateboarders can start their own brand or put up a shop selling skateboards, apparel, and accessories. This requires business skills as well as creativity and passion for skateboarding.
5. Create skateboarding content
Skateboarders can create their own content, such as videos, photos, and social media posts, and monetize it through platforms like YouTube, Patreon, and Instagram. This requires creativity and a willingness to build an audience, but it can lead to significant financial opportunities.
Whether it’s becoming a sponsored athlete, turning pro, or pursuing a career in skateboarding media or entrepreneurship, there are plenty of opportunities to turn a passion for skateboarding into a profitable career. The best method will depend on individual skills, interests, and goals.
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
What is professional skateboarding?
Professional skateboarding is a career option in which skateboarders are paid to compete in skateboarding competitions, shows, and events. It can also involve building a personal brand, securing sponsorships, and endorsing products or brands that align with their values and style.
Professional skateboarding has become a respectable career thanks in part to Tony Hawk, a professional skateboarder who established The Skatepark Project (formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation) in 2002 to promote and provide advocacy training and funds for high-quality skateparks.
Skateboarding can be a viable career option for those who are passionate about the sport and willing to put in the effort to build their brand.
Skateboarding can be a viable career option for those who are passionate about the sport and willing to put in the effort to build their brand. Skaters can compete in high-profile events, earn money through sponsorships and endorsements, and pursue other career opportunities in the skateboarding industry, such as coaching or content creation.
How much do professional skateboarders make?
The amount of money professional skateboarders makes varies depending on various factors. On average, a professional skateboarder can earn $64,000 a year. It is highly likely that the most talented and popular skateboarders are paid more.
It’s important to note that making money as a professional skateboarder isn’t limited to turning pro and winning prize money. Skateboarding is a very competitive sport, so skateboarders need to work hard to get noticed and build their personal brand to attract sponsors and endorsements.
Ultimately, the earning potential of a professional skateboarder can vary widely and depends on their level of success, sponsorships, and endorsements, among other factors.
How do you get started skateboarding professionally?
Getting started in professional skateboarding requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to improve your skills and build your personal brand. Here are some tips on how to get started in professional skateboarding:
- Start early – Start early and devote yourself to skateboarding. The earlier you start, the more time you have to develop your skills and gain experience.
- Practice often – Enhance your training by practicing consistently and pushing yourself to try new tricks and techniques. This will help you improve your skills and stand out from other skateboarders.
- Join competitions – Participate in skateboarding competitions to gain experience and exposure. This can help you build your brand and attract potential sponsors’ attention.
- Get social – Get acquainted with the skateboarding community by attending events and networking with other skateboarders and industry professionals. This can help you establish connections and build your reputation in the industry.
- Stay healthy – Improve your health and fitness to ensure you are in top physical shape for competitions and performances.
- Build a social media following – Expand your personal image on social media by sharing your journey and progress as a skateboarder on various social media platforms. This can help you build a dedicated following and attract the attention of potential sponsors.
If you want even more tips and insights, watch this video called “How I made a Living Skating without becoming a Pro Skater” from the Dale Decker YouTube channel.
Conclusion
Well, folks, that’s a wrap on our wild ride through the world of professional skateboarding! I hope you all found this post helpful and informative. Remember, whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, there’s always room to improve and grow as a skateboarder.
So, did I cover everything you wanted to know? Are you feeling ready to hit the pavement and turn your passion into a lucrative career? Let me know in the comments section below (I read and reply to every comment).
And if you found this article helpful, don’t forget to share it with a friend who’s just as passionate about skateboarding as you are! And be sure to check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on all things skateboarding. Until next time, keep shredding and stay radical!
Key takeaways
This article covered how to make money skateboarding. Here are some key takeaways:
- Skateboarding can be a viable career choice with opportunities to compete, build a personal brand, and secure sponsorships and endorsements.
- To make a living as a professional skateboarder, you must hone your skills, build a personal brand, secure sponsorships and endorsements, and compete in high-profile events.
- Tips for securing sponsorships and endorsements include developing a strong personal brand, identifying brands that align with your values and style, and networking with industry professionals.
- To stand out in competitions, focus on developing a unique skateboarding style, practicing consistently, and analyzing the competition and scoring criteria.
- Additional career opportunities in the skateboarding industry include coaching, content creation, and working for a skateboarding company in product design, marketing, or sales.
