Larry Stevenson created Makaha Skateboards

Larry Stevenson created Makaha Skateboards

Venice lifeguard Larry Stevenson (1930-2012) designed and manufactured the first commercial skateboards in 1961, under his brand Makaha, and with the help of his wife Helen. He later worked with surfer Mike Doyle to develop his designs. The Makaha Phil Edwards model of 1963 (named another legendary surfer) was the first-ever professional skateboard. It introduced two revolutionary components: clay wheels and Chicago trucks (the first, double-action, adjustable trucks).

In 1963, Makaha sponsored the first-known skateboard contest at Pier Avenue Junior High School in Hermosa Beach, CA.

Larry started publishing "Surf Guide" magazine from Topanga Beach in 1963 to help promote Makaha Skateboards.

In 1969, he invented the "kicktail," the bent-upwards end of a skateboard, which made most of today's tricks possible.

This card was created when he was inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame in 2010.

1960s

Digital only

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Skateboarding Hall of Fame and Museum