Micke Alba: A Skateboarding Icon

Micke Alba, better known as "Malba," is a name that resonates deeply within the world of skateboarding. Born in the Badlands of Southern California, Micke grew up surrounded by the raw energy of the sport. His older brother, Steve Alba, was already making waves, and it wasn’t long before Micke followed suit, carving his own path in the late 1970s.

The Early Days

Micke started out skating freestyle around 1975, but his true calling was found in the deep curves of vert skating. He honed his skills at legendary spots like the Bel Air Pool, Central Pool, the famous L Pool, and the Mt. Baldy Pipeline. These places became his training grounds, where he developed a style that was both aggressive and fluid.

When Pipeline Skatepark opened in 1977, Micke secured a spot on the park team, granting him free entry for life. It was here that he truly came into his own, pushing the limits of what was possible on a skateboard.

Rising to Fame

By 1979, Micke was already making headlines. At just 13 years old, he won first place at the Hester Series contest in Boulder, Colorado, and went on to claim the overall title for the series that year. His talent was undeniable, and he quickly became one of the youngest pros in the scene.

In 1980, Micke took top honors at the first Gold Cup at Oasis, further cementing his reputation. Though he briefly explored roller skating, he soon returned to his true passion, making a comeback at the Great Desert Ramp Battle in Palmdale in 1983, where he placed 10th.

Style and Influence

Micke’s approach to skateboarding was simple yet powerful. He favored raw aggression over robotic technicality, a philosophy that made him stand out. His ability to execute handplants, backside airs, and powerful vert runs earned him a place among the greats.

His influence extended beyond competitions. Micke became one of only four skaters to grace the cover of Skateboarder magazine twice, appearing in November 1979 and April 1980. He repeated this feat with Thrasher magazine in July 1982 and April 1983, solidifying his status as a legend.

Sponsors and Pro Models

Throughout his career, Micke was backed by some of the biggest names in the industry. His first sponsors included Kryptonics and Independent, followed by G&S, Santa Cruz, and Dogtown. His preference for raw aluminum trucks over Grindmasters became a defining characteristic of his setup.

Video Sections and Legacy

Micke’s presence in skateboarding media was undeniable. His interviews in Skateboarder (April 1980), Thrasher (July 1982), and TransWorld Skateboarding (April 1988) provided insight into his journey and philosophy. His video sections showcased his fearless approach to vert skating, inspiring generations to come.

Where Is He Now?

In 2019, Micke was inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame, a well-deserved recognition of his contributions to the sport. Though his competitive days are behind him, his legacy lives on. Whether through lost footage resurfacing from 1986, or his continued influence on modern skaters, Micke Alba remains an icon whose impact will never fade.

Micke’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and pure love for skateboarding. His name will forever be etched in history, reminding us all of the golden era of vert skating and the legends who shaped it.

Micke Alba Montclair skatepark 2012

Micke Alba - 1989 Vans NSA contest run

FOB, Micky Albe interview at the 1981 King of the Mountain Skateboard Competition

1990 - Sk8 TV - Steve and Micke Alba Interview

Flood Kontrol Skateboards welcomes Micke Alba to the crew / Subscribe to Eleventh Mourning