Sliding sports have long been dominated by men. However, in recent years, a growing number of talented and inspiring women have managed to break stereotypes and evolve the culture of sliding sports in general. An overview of these women who are gradually establishing themselves as iconic and influential figures in the world of surfing, skating, and snowboarding.
The pioneers of women's surfing
If the history of surfing is mainly marked by male legends, several women have established themselves as references, thus contributing to the popularization of this sport among a female audience. Champions like Margo Oberg, Layne Beachley, and Stephanie Gilmore, as well as committed personalities such as Bethany Hamilton and Keala Kennelly, have proven that the waves belong as much to women as to men.
- Margo Oberg: First professional female surfer, she dominated the international scene during the 70s and 80s.
- Layne Beachley: The most decorated Australian surfer in history with seven world titles to her name.
- Stephanie Gilmore: She holds six world titles and is considered one of the best surfers of all time.
- Bethany Hamilton: Despite losing her arm in a shark attack, Bethany continues to surf and advocates for self-improvement.
- Keala Kennelly: Pioneer of big wave surfing, she also advocates for gender equality and fights against discrimination.
The collective GRLSWIRL encourages women to skate
In the world of skateboarding, still largely dominated by men, female collectives such as GRLSWIRL work in favor of sisterhood and self-confidence. By offering workshops, meetings, or even ride sessions for women, GRLSWIRL allows female skateboarders to progress together and share their passion for this sport, which is still too often seen as reserved for boys.
GRLSWIRL has a significant presence on social media, especially on Instagram. They share images and videos showcasing women of all levels in skateboarding, while encouraging solidarity and individual expression. The collective regularly organizes events, workshops, and meetups to bring female skaters together. These initiatives aim to create opportunities for women to learn, share experiences, and develop their passion for skateboarding.
GRLSWIRL highlights diversity in skateboarding, emphasizing that all women, regardless of their age, ethnic background, or level of experience, are welcome in the community. As a collective, GRLSWIRL has helped shape a more inclusive and diverse culture in the world of skateboarding. This has inspired many women to become more involved in the sport and to break the gender stereotypes associated with skateboarding.
Several female skateboarders have made history in skateboarding through their talents, contributions, and impact on the community. Here are some of them:
- Patti McGee: Considered one of the first professional female skateboarders, Patti McGee won the national women's skateboard title in 1965. She helped popularize skateboarding at a time when the sport was still largely male-dominated.
- Elissa Steamer: She is often considered the first professional female skateboarder to have emerged in the modern skateboarding scene.
- Lyn-Z Adams Hawkins Pastrana : Lyn-Z is a professional skateboarder who has won several medals at the X Games. She is known for her skills in vertical skateboarding and has contributed to the recognition of women in this discipline.
- Leticia Bufoni: Professional skateboarder who has won several international competitions. She is known for her technical style and dominant presence in the world of street skateboarding.
- Vanessa Torres: Professional skateboarder since the early 2000s, Vanessa Torres has been an important figure in women's skateboarding. She has helped inspire many young female skateboarders and has been a role model for success in the field.
These female skateboarders played a crucial role in demonstrating that skateboarding is not exclusively male and paved the way for many generations of women skateboarders. Their impact continues to inspire and promote diversity in the skateboarding world.
The women's snowboarding champions
Snowboarding, once a niche discipline, has experienced an explosion in popularity in recent decades. Among the women who have marked and continue to influence the snowboarding scene, we notably find:
- Karine Ruby: First Olympic snowboard champion (parallel giant slalom) at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano.
- Kelly Clark: The American snowboarder is considered one of the pioneers and one of the most talented halfpipe riders of all time, with an impressive record including 5 Olympic medals and 14 competition podiums.
- Chloe Kim: Very young, this American-Korean prodigy won the gold medal at the 2018 Olympic Games at the age of only 17.
- Jenny Jones: First British Olympic medalist in snowboarding, she is a reference in slopestyle and regularly participates in international competitions.
- Jamie Anderson : Double Olympic champion in slopestyle (2014, 2018) and one of the most decorated snowboarders.
Oxbow supports committed female riders
The French brand Oxbow has decided to commit to supporting projects led by women embodying the spirit of adventure, freedom, self-improvement, and sharing. With its call for projects to adventurous and committed female riders, Oxbow sponsors your project up to €3000 as well as a product grant of €1500. A great example of support for female athletes who wish to promote the role of women in board sports.
Many women have managed to change mindsets and pave the way for sliding sports to become more inclusive and equal. Thanks to their talent, perseverance, and commitment, they have succeeded in changing the traditional image associated with surfing, skating, and snowboarding, and today they are showing the way to future generations of female riders.
