Larry Stevenson: The Man Behind the Kicktail
Birth of Larry Stevenson
Larry Stevenson was born in 1930 in Santa Monica, California. He grew up in a city rich with surf culture which served as an inspiration for his future innovations in skateboarding. As a child, Stevenson was enamored with surfboards and the thrill of riding, which led him down the path to become one of the most influential figures in the skateboarding world.
Innovating the Skateboard with the Kicktail
In the early 1960s, Stevenson introduced the **kicktail** to skateboarding, a design that revolutionized how riders performed tricks. The kicktail allowed skaters to lift the board's back end off the ground, enhancing maneuverability and enabling more complex movements. This innovation made a significant impact on the sport and is still a fundamental feature of skateboards today.
The Cultural Impact of Larry Stevenson
Establishing a Skateboarding Legacy
Stevenson went on to establish Makaha, one of the first skateboard companies, which contributed to the growing popularity of skateboarding as a mainstream sport in America. Through his company, he not only sold skateboards but also encouraged the skateboarding community to grow. His influence helped shape the culture of skateboarding, making it a recognized sport by the late 20th century.
Larry Stevenson’s Final Years and Legacy
Even in his later years, Larry Stevenson remained connected to the skateboarding community. He was remembered fondly by skaters old and new, reflecting on how his innovations had laid the groundwork for future advancements in skateboarding. Stevenson passed away in 2012, but his legacy endures through the ongoing evolution of skateboarding and the joy it brings to countless enthusiasts.
Fun Fact
Larry Stevenson’s Interesting Fact
Did you know that Larry Stevenson was not just an innovator but also a competitive surfer? His dual passions for surfing and skateboarding deeply influenced his design perspectives and the creation of the kicktail.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Larry Stevenson
For those interested in learning more about Larry Stevenson and the evolution of skateboarding, consider reading “The Book of Skateboarding” or “Skateboarding: The Ultimate Guide”, both of which outline the history and development of the sport he helped pioneer.
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