🛹 Madars Apse: Latvia’s Skateboarding Luminary

Madars Apse isn’t just a skateboarder—he’s a global ambassador for creativity on four wheels. From humble beginnings in Latvia to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in skateboarding, his journey is as inspiring as it is unconventional. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this trailblazing skater.

🌍 Origins: From Ventspils to the World

• Born: November 19, 1989

• Hometown: Ventspils, Latvia

• Early Life: Growing up in a country with no skate industry or proper skateparks, Madars learned to skate by watching videos and traveling long distances to contests. His first board was bought with money earned selling flowers—flame graphics and all.

🛹 Breaking In: How He Got Started

Madars’ skateboarding journey began across the street from a local skatepark. Despite lacking gear (he skated in sandals and second-hand shoes), he was hooked. His early tricks included Rock to Fakies and Fakie Tail Stalls. Though he wore pads, acceptance didn’t come easy—but his passion never wavered.

🔥 Signature Style & Tricks

Madars is known for his:

• Inventive trick selection: Think handstand variations, double wallrides, and creative transfers.

• Technical finesse: Fakie nosegrind switch frontside, flip-to-heelflip combos, and kinked boardslides.

• Adaptability: He learns tricks through experimentation, inspiration from filmers, or spontaneous discovery.

His skating blends the technical precision of Stefan Janoski with the quirky creativity of Louie Barletta and Jerry Hsu.

🧢 Sponsors & Support

Madars has built a solid roster of sponsors:

• Element Skateboards

• DC Shoes

• Red Bull

• GoPro

• Independent Trucks

• OJ Wheels

• Mosaic Bearings

• Nixon

• Ashes

• Paradox

These partnerships reflect both his mainstream appeal and core credibility.

🖼️ Pro Model Decks

Madars has several pro model decks through Element, including:

• Future Nature Series: Featherlight construction, 8.25" width.

• Coop Collection: Featuring artwork by Donnie O’Donnell, available in 8.38".

• Squared 30 Deck: A sleek 8.38" model with custom graphics.

Each deck reflects his artistic sensibility and commitment to quality.

🎬 Iconic Video Sections

Madars has dropped some unforgettable parts:

• "Forget Me Not" (Red Bull): A six-minute masterclass in style and creativity.

• DC’s "Domino" Part 04: Classic meets chaos in this Thrasher-featured segment.

• Element’s "Peace": A soulful blend of street skating and global footage.

• OJ Wheels’ "Wanderer": Showcasing his spontaneous style across diverse terrain.

He’s also a regular on Skate Tales, a Red Bull series exploring skateboarding’s cultural fringes.

🌐 Beyond the Board: What He’s Up To Now

Madars continues to push boundaries:

• Skate Tales Season 3: Traveling to places like Ethiopia, India, Argentina, and Japan to meet skateboarding’s outliers.

• Surfing & Snowboarding: Thanks to his girlfriend, he’s embraced new board sports.

• DIY Projects in Latvia: Helping build parks and promote skate culture in his homeland.

• Public Speaking & Media: From TED-style talks to interviews, he’s a thoughtful voice in skateboarding.

Despite his global fame, Madars remains grounded—still living in Ventspils and skating with the same joy he had as a kid.

Jenkem Goes to Latvia with Madars Apse

FORGET ME NOT | The Madars Apse Video Part

Latvia's Best Skateboarding Spots w/ Madars Apse