Kingpin Magazine

Simo Makela is part of the Finnish contingent of the resurgent Alien Workshop roster along with Arto Saari and Eniz Fazliov, and is also an am rider for Perus Wheels, SLP, Spot Digger, Junkyard, Volcom Europe, and Nike SB’s European programme. His biggest video part to date has been in Perus Crew’s 2014 release Get the Fuckin Beers in Dickhead!, impressing us all with some incredible skills.

First sponsored by Helsinki’s Ponke’s Skateshop, he made his debut in the company’s 2008 movie, and has since gone on to feature in Travis Adams’ independent American video Tha Mustard Connection in 2009, and the Perus and Sweet tie-up Tent Shitty Scandinavia Tour 2011. He has also been on European tours with Nike.

Born on 22nd May 1987
 in 
the city of Lahti, about an hour’s drive from the Finnish capital of Helsinki, Simo was inspired to start skating at the age of 11 by his friends. He borrowed boards for a short time until his Dad bought him one as a present, and he soon progressed toa Rhythm Felix Arguelles board with Gullwing trucks.

There is no doubt that Simo is a sublimely gifted skater – in fact, it is difficult to think of anyone on the current scene with more raw talent, even including his heroes Andrew Reynolds and Heath Kirchart. He also has the useful ability of being able to bring a crate of beer to a spot and drink it, before filming the gnarliest line imaginable.