Skidsport

Skidsport is a sport centered on controlled skidding maneuvers performed on prepared surfaces or through defined courses. Participants use footwear and equipment designed to optimize sliding and balance, executing slides, turns, and stops with an emphasis on precision, timing, and safety. The discipline includes sub-disciplines such as straight-line skids, turning slides, and obstacle-based routines where competitors glide past cones or barriers while maintaining a continuous skid.

Origins of skidsport trace to urban skating communities in the early 21st century, where improvised sliding maneuvers gained popularity. Local clubs and regional leagues began standardizing rules in the 2010s, helping organize competitions and share techniques online. There is no single international governing body, and activities are organized through independent associations, clubs, and informal networks.

Competitions typically feature judged routines and sometimes time trials. Scoring considers technical difficulty, control, speed, smoothness, and adherence to safety guidelines. Venues vary by format and may include ice rinks, wooden skating floors, or synthetic sliding surfaces. Some events prioritize style and risk management, while others emphasize precision and consistency.

Equipment ranges by discipline but generally includes protective gear such as helmets, wrist guards, knee and elbow pads, along with footwear or sliding boards designed to reduce friction or to enhance balance. Safety practices emphasize warming up, spotters for high-difficulty runs, and surface maintenance to minimize hazards.