These Vintage Photos Prove That Roller Derby Has Always Been Cool

Punk Aesthetic

Primarily in the U.S., a punk aesthetic and third-wave feminist ethic is prominent among roller derby players. In 2009, the feature film Whip It was based on roller derby, introducing viewers to its rules and unique punk culture.

Gameplay

Roller derby consists of a series of short scrimmages, or jams, in which both teams designate a jammer with a star on their helmet and four blockers who skate counterclockwise around the track. The opposing team attempts to stop the opposing jammer while assisting their own jammer, essentially playing both defense and offense at the same time.

Next Page →

Advertisement

The More You Know

  • The majority of polar bears live in Canada—not in the Arctic.
  • Male seahorses bear their young.
  • The smallest bone in your body is in your ear.
  • On Mars, sunsets are blue.
Next Page →

Post originally appeared on Upbeat News.