Tom Schaar at a Glance
- Net Worth: $2.5 Million
- Birthdate: September 14, 1999
- Birthplace: Malibu, California
- Nationality: American
- Profession: Professional Skateboarder
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What is Tom Schaar’s Net Worth?
Tom Schaar has a net worth of $2.5 million. His wealth primarily stems from a highly successful career as a professional skateboarder, characterized by record-breaking athletic feats, consistent contest winnings, and lucrative corporate sponsorships. Unlike many athletes who peak late in their careers, Schaar began capitalizing on his talent at a very young age, allowing him to accumulate significant earnings over more than a decade of professional competition.
The financial foundation of his career was laid when he became the first skateboarder to land a “1080” degree spin, a feat that instantly elevated his global profile and marketable value. This achievement opened doors to long-term contracts with major lifestyle and action sports brands. While prize money from events like the X Games and the Dew Tour provides a substantial influx of cash, the bulk of his annual income is derived from endorsement deals. Companies pay monthly retainers for brand representation, board sales royalties, and media appearances.
His financial portfolio saw a recent boost following his performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Beyond the direct medal bonuses provided by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, Olympic success triggers performance clauses in sponsorship contracts, leading to significant bonuses. Schaar effectively monetizes his social media presence and appearances in skateboarding films, diversifying his revenue streams beyond just competition entry fees.
Sponsorship Deals
Endorsements are the most consistent revenue generator for Schaar. He maintains a strong relationship with Monster Energy, a brand known for paying its top-tier action sports athletes significant salaries. This partnership typically includes travel support, event bonuses, and a base salary. Additionally, his footwear and apparel deals—historically with brands like Vans and Element Skateboards—have provided steady income through both direct payments and royalties on signature products or team merchandise. Equipment sponsors, such as Alta Wheels and Independent Trucks, further supplement his earnings.
Contest Earnings
Throughout his career, Schaar has been a dominant force in high-stakes competitions. His history at the X Games is particularly lucrative; gold medal payouts in major action sports events typically range in the tens of thousands of dollars, not including the contingency money paid out by sponsors for podium finishes. With multiple X Games medals and podium spots at the Vans Park Series, Schaar has consistently earned six-figure annual totals from competitive performances alone during his peak contest seasons.
Early Life
Tom Schaar was born and raised in Malibu, California, in a household that encouraged outdoor activity and athletics. Growing up in a coastal environment, he naturally gravitated toward board sports, spending time surfing and skateboarding. His parents, Nick and Regan Schaar, recognized his prodigious talent early on and provided the necessary support to nurture his skills.
Access to facilities played a crucial role in his development. The family had a vert ramp, often referred to as “Little Tranny,” in their backyard, which allowed Schaar to practice transition skating daily. This immediate access to a training ground helped him develop the air awareness and board control that would later define his career. He was not just a casual participant; by the age of four, he was already comfortable on a board, and by his pre-teens, he was training at the MegaRamp in Tehachapi, earning respect from established pros like Bob Burnquist.
Career
Tom Schaar’s professional trajectory began with a historic moment that permanently altered the landscape of skateboarding. In 2012, at just 12 years old, he successfully landed the first-ever 1080 on a skateboard during a practice session at the MegaRamp. This feat, involving three full rotations in the air, shattered previous records and made international headlines. The achievement did not just bring him fame; it proved he was technically proficient beyond his years, leading to immediate professional opportunities.
Following the 1080, Schaar entered the competitive circuit with momentum. He became the youngest X Games gold medalist in history shortly after his record-breaking spin, winning the Big Air competition in Asia. This victory solidified his status as a prodigy and transitioned him from a novelty act to a serious contender. Over the next several years, he broadened his skill set, moving beyond just Big Air (MegaRamp) skating to become a dominant force in Park and Vert disciplines. This versatility made him valuable to sponsors who needed athletes capable of competing across different television formats.
His career evolved as he matured physically and technically. He became a regular fixture on the Vans Park Series tour, winning the Men’s Pro Tour Global Qualifier in 2017. His consistency in bowl and park skating demonstrated his ability to adapt to different course designs, a skill that is essential for longevity in the sport. During this period, he filmed video parts and participated in high-profile tours, which are essential for maintaining relevance in the core skateboarding industry outside of televised contests.
The pinnacle of his competitive career arguably arrived with his qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Representing the United States, Schaar competed in the Men’s Park event. He delivered a highly technical and high-amplitude performance that earned him the Silver Medal. This achievement introduced him to a mainstream global audience that extends far beyond the core action sports demographic, refreshing his brand value for the next phase of his career.
Personal Life
Schaar maintains a relatively private personal life, residing in San Diego, California, a hub for the professional skateboarding community. Outside of his rigid training and travel schedule, he is an avid surfer, often spending his downtime in the ocean. This connection to surfing influences his skating style, which is known for its flow and power. He often collaborates with other high-profile skaters for content creation and practice sessions, maintaining close ties with peers in the industry.
