Skateboarding originated in southern California in the mid-20th century and was likened to surfing on land. While skateboarding has become a global sport, California, particularly the Los Angeles area, remains the dominant center of the skateboarding culture. The majority of professional skaters were born in California or have migrated there, and California hosts the most skateparks and major skateboarding competitions like the X-Games. California also dominates in terms of where the offices of major skateboarding magazines are located. The traditional skateboarding culture, skateparks, and pleasant weather in California are factors that have contributed to its enduring dominance in the sport.