Industry ProfileSkateboards and inline skates are a part of the $14 billion sporting goods industry. The profits of the companies are determined by their efficient manufacturing and branding strategies. The industry consists of manufacturers like Element skateboards who create boards that are sold in bulk to smaller skate shops who then resell them. Trends in the industryIn big cities like Chicago, skateboard rentals are becoming very popular. You can now rent skateboards, bicycles, and even Segways and ride them in the city. In the last decade, skateboarding has really become popular with the younger generation. Inline skates have become popular with those trying to stay in shape. In Columbus, Ohio, inline skate rentals are still available at old skate parlors similar to those from the seventies, eighties and nineties.Business in this categoryBusinesses in this category include, skateboard manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, and rental venues