How Much Do Pro Skateboarders Really Make?

Do You Really Love Skateboarding?

 

Professional skateboarders approximately earn a monthly salary between $1,500 and $2,000. It is difficult to exceed a $30,000 a year net income, especially for those who don't get enough Xtreme sport’s "face time" by participating in high payout competitions.  However, an average pro skateboarder who is motivated enough can create opportunities and earn a solid living ranging in the $50,000-$80,000 annually.  They’ll earn income from various streams such as, competitions, team sponsorship, endorsements, demos, and promotions.  A pro level skater, who participates and wins 1-3 events a year, in the Xtreme sport circuit, the earning capacity is anywhere between $80,000 and $100,000 per year. The pro skaters, who win multiple competitions yearly, can make between $500K to $1 million annually.

Since this profession is performance-based, the challenge for pro skateboarders is creating and “scotch-taping” different streams of income that make up a yearly salary. For example, a skateboarder can earn $20,000 a year from endorsements, but that stream alone is not going to pay the bills.  They supplement their endorsement income by participating in pro events such as, demos, promos, advanced-skilled, vertical, or street events.  By demonstrating a strong presence, and winning a few events, that $20,000 becomes $80,000 or $120,000 for the year.  In addition, to displaying advanced skateboarding skills, the high level skater also needs to be a good business negotiator, and aware of public relations for the simple reason of connecting  the skater or skating style with the public.  These skills are especially necessary with high level contracts that can potentially earn six figures to millions USD a year.  Other realistic possibilities in this field include photo incentives, skateboard deck sales, contests, signature shoes and accessory endorsements.  It is important that the individual skater has a good relationship with the big name skateboarding companies in order to negotiate and receive the benefits of the promotions.

On the other hand, the warning for average pros should be that since this is a performance-based industry the success rate really depends on the skater.  By developing specific business skills and remaining focused on the enjoyment of skateboarding is the overall formula for success.  This awareness will keep outside influences away that may discourage or cause a skater to second guess their decisions.  In a business practical sense, pro skaters are their own brand whether they are part of a pro team or pro sponsorship like Bird House or Element, and keeping this reality in mind will help make decisions that are in their best interests.  The average pro skater will have opportunities that can catapult their skateboarding career if their heart is into skating instead of fame, recognition, and money.  The skills should always speak for themselves, and the rest most definitely falls into place such as the money.  Those that remain focused on learning the practical skills of negotiation, PR, and branding while improving their skateboarding technique and ability will have longevity in this career. 

However, those that cannot be centered in themselves and are easily swayed in either direction, positive or negative, the outcome may be very different from what they envisioned. This career choice may not be a high paying job with stability like working for someone else such as, a corporation with a guaranteed salary.  With that said, the skateboarders that aren’t 100% dedicated to the love of the sport may find difficulty succeeding in this career.  Some may just have to set realistic goals for their earning potential.  It might not be a bad idea to take up this passion on a part-time basis until you establish yourself in the sport or make the conscious decision of doing what you have to do- not just what you want to do in order to succeed.

"It's Yours If You Want It"