🛹 Kevin Staab: The Neon Pirate of Skateboarding

If you’ve ever dipped into the vibrant world of 1980s vert skating, chances are you’ve seen Kevin Staab soaring through the air in neon gear, rocking a pirate-themed deck, and flashing a grin that says, “I’m having the time of my life.” Staab isn’t just a skateboarder—he’s a living piece of skateboarding history, a mentor, and a performer who never stopped pushing the limits of fun.

🌟 Early Life & Origins

Kevin Staab was born in Phoenix, Arizona, and by the late 1970s, he had relocated to Southern California—a hotbed for skateboarding culture. He began skating in 1974, and quickly became a fixture at legendary spots like Del Mar Skate Ranch and Tony Hawk’s ramp. His early exposure to the scene and relentless practice helped him develop a unique style that blended technical skill with theatrical flair.

🌀 Rise to Fame

Staab’s breakthrough came when he was sponsored by the Del Mar park team, which led to a quick pickup by Tracker Trucks. His style was unmistakable: bold, expressive, and always entertaining. He was known for inventing tricks like the blunt and the fakie ollie, and for his fearless vert skating that often involved floating massive ollies over people standing on the coping.

🏴☠️ Signature Style & Pro Model Decks

Kevin Staab’s image was as iconic as his tricks. He embraced a pirate persona, complete with eye-popping neon gear and decks that featured skulls, swords, and swashbuckling themes. His most famous pro model decks were released under Sims Skateboards, and they became collector’s items for fans of the era. These decks weren’t just stylish—they were a reflection of Staab’s playful, rebellious spirit.

🎥 Video Sections & Media Appearances

Staab appeared in several influential skate videos, including:

• “Barge at Will” (1989) – A cult classic that showcased his vert prowess.

• “Thrashin’” (1986) – A Hollywood skate flick where Staab made a cameo.

• “The Last Day of Summer” (2007) – A later appearance that showed his enduring connection to skate culture.

He also featured in numerous skate magazines and was a regular in demos and competitions throughout the '80s and '90s.

🧢 Sponsors & Collaborations

Over the years, Kevin Staab has been sponsored by:

• Tracker Trucks

• Sims Skateboards

• Triple 8 – A helmet and protective gear brand that collaborated with Staab on youth helmets, celebrating his commitment to safety and longevity in the sport.

He also briefly ran an apparel brand called 90, which reflected his eclectic style and love for bold design.

🎭 Beyond the Board

Staab’s charisma made him a natural performer. He’s toured with skate shows, mentored younger skaters, and even worked behind the scenes in skateboarding media. His Peter Pan-like ability to defy time has kept him relevant and beloved in the skateboarding community.

📍 What’s Kevin Staab Up to Now?

Today, Kevin Staab is still skating, still smiling, and still inspiring. Based in Carlsbad, California, he continues to be involved in skateboarding events, product collaborations, and youth mentorship. He’s active on social media, where fans can catch glimpses of his current projects and throwback moments. Staab remains a vibrant figure in the skate world—a neon-colored pirate who never stopped chasing the thrill.

Kevin Staab Skating in the 80s

Kevin Staab On Seeing The McTwist For The First Time!

Vintage Pipeline Skate Footage with Kevin Staab and Adrian Demain - VHS VAULT