Watch Skateboard Nation

Skateboarding has become a cultural movement in recent decades, and its popularity has spread to all corners of the globe. It's a sport that has transcended race, nationality, and class, bringing together individuals from all walks of life who share a passion for pushing the limits and challenging their abilities on a board. Skateboard Nation, a documentary series from Smithsonian Channel, delves into the history and culture of skateboarding, exploring how this sport has evolved over time and what it means to those who practice it.

The series features interviews with professional skateboarders, historians, and enthusiasts from all around the world, taking viewers on a journey through the highs and lows of skateboarding culture. Through their stories and insights, viewers gain insight into the origins of the sport, tracing its roots back to California in the 1950s, when surfers started taking to the streets on boards that resembled small surfboards. From there, skateboarding evolved into a distinct subculture, gaining worldwide recognition through the efforts of pioneers like Tony Hawk and Steve Caballero.

Skateboard Nation explores the diverse communities that have emerged around skateboarding, showcasing the unique styles and techniques that are as varied as the individuals who practice them. From the streets of Tokyo to the skate parks of Los Angeles, viewers are introduced to skateboarders who have made the sport their own, incorporating elements of art, music, and culture into their rides. Some may gravitate toward aggressive street skating, pushing the limits of their body and board with daring tricks and stunts. Others may prefer the exhilarating speeds of downhill skating or the grace and fluidity of longboarding. Whatever their style, skateboarders all share a common language, a shared passion for the freedom and creativity that skateboarding represents.

As Skateboard Nation explores the culture of skateboarding, it also touches upon the challenges and controversies that have arisen around this sport. Skateboarding has often been viewed as a counterculture, associated with rebellion and youth subcultures. Despite the sport's growing mainstream success, many skateboarders still view themselves as outsiders, pushing against the norms of mainstream culture and society. Additionally, skateboarding has faced challenges in terms of safety and legality, as cities struggle to accommodate the growing numbers of skateboarders and balance their needs with those of other residents. The series addresses these issues head-on, exploring how skateboarders have navigated these challenges and how they continue to shape the future of the sport.

Overall, Skateboard Nation provides a comprehensive look into the history, culture, and community of skateboarding, offering viewers a deeper understanding of this dynamic and evolving sport. Whether you're an experienced skateboarder looking to connect with others who share your passion, or simply curious about the world of skateboarding, this series is sure to provide insight, inspiration, and plenty of thrills. So grab your board, hit the pavement, and dive into the vibrant world of Skateboard Nation.

Skateboard Nation is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between May 5, 2012 and on Smithsonian Channel