The history of Downhill Skateboarding in America is a significant aspect of the sport's evolution and growth. Downhill Skateboarding, also known as "Gravity Skateboarding," is a style of Skateboarding that involves riding on steep and winding roads at high speeds, and it has been a beloved and exciting aspect of the sport for decades.
In the early days of Skateboarding, Skateboarders primarily rode on flat surfaces such as sidewalks and empty swimming pools. However, in the 1970s, a new style of Skateboarding emerged, known as Downhill Skateboarding. This style of Skateboarding involved riding on steep and winding roads at high speeds, using specialized longboards and equipment to increase control and stability.
In the 1980s, Downhill Skateboarding began to gain mainstream acceptance and became a staple of the sport. This period saw the rise of professional Downhill Skateboarders such as Tom Sims, Alan "Ollie" Gelfand and Billy "The Kid" Meiners, who helped to set new standards for what was possible on a Skateboard and popularized the sport among a wider audience.
In the 1990s, Downhill Skateboarding continued to evolve, with the introduction of new technologies such as slide gloves, and the rise of organized downhill racing events. This period also saw the emergence of new downhill racing teams and organizations, such as the International Downhill Federation (IDF).
In the 2000s and 2010s, Downhill Skateboarding continued to grow in popularity, with events such as the Maryhill Festival of Speed and the Kebbek Skateboards Downhill Race Series drawing thousands of competitors and spectators from around the world. This period also saw the emergence of new technologies such as 3D printed decks, and the rise of new innovations in the sport such as electric skateboards and e-longboards.
In recent years, Downhill Skateboarding has continued to evolve, with the rise of new technologies such as GPS and tracking systems, and new innovations in the sport such as the use of carbon fiber decks and trucks. Additionally, the rise of social media and online platforms has helped to bring the sport to a wider audience and make it more accessible to people all over the world.