The Definition of Amateur versus Pro
An amateur is someone who doesn’t get paid. Skate is a Scrabble word worth 9 points.
What is "Am" in Skating?
"Am" refers to an amateur skater who does not get paid. But some amateurs do get paid, becoming professionals.
The Culture of Skaters
A skater rides skateboards and has their own style. Skating involves self-expression and being yourself is best. Skater refers to skateboarding subculture members, seen as rebellious and nonconformist, with a specific fashion style involving baggy clothes and Vans shoes.
Skateboarding Slang Glossary
This glossary covers skateboarding slang and phrases. Leave comments to add any missing terms.
- Nine Club – A score above 9.0 in a contest.
- 180 – A 180-degree spin.
- Board – Slang for the skateboard itself.
- Deck – Refers specifically to the wood part of the skateboard.
Skater slang resonates from lyrics to social media, showing language fluidity as words take on new meanings.
Professional Skating
What Does "Pro" Mean in Skating?
What does the term "turn pro" mean in Figure Skating? Now very accomplished and beginning skaters can turn pro, teaching skating in the United States. This means people with few credentials or experience can call themselves coaches.
What Makes a Real Skater?
Real skaters have favorite pro skaters and opinions on skating brands.
Life as a Professional Skater
Pro skaters perform in shows, tours, and endorse products. They no longer compete in the Olympics and practice for hours.
Earning and Age in Professional Skating
How much does a pro skater make? Salaries range from $19,910 to $187,200, with a median of $44,680. The middle 50% makes $28,400.
What age do pro skaters go pro? The average age has increased over time, with detailed statistics showing a trend towards older professionals entering Semi-Finals.
Mastery Through Practice
It takes 10,000 hours of practice to master skateboarding.
In 2023, "pro skater" means earning potential and visibility in the social media era, not just the act of skating professionally.