What is a Custom Surfboard
Discover the Difference to your surfing when riding Custom Surfboards
A custom surfboard isn’t just a board — it’s an extension of you. Designed and handcrafted to match your unique style, skill level, body type, and local wave conditions, custom surfboards offer a level of performance and connection that mass-produced boards simply can’t replicate. Every detail — from the length, width, and thickness to the fin setup, contours, and artwork — is shaped with precision by expert craftsmen who work closely with you to create your perfect ride. Whether you’re chasing barrels, carving clean lines, or just starting your surfing journey, a custom surfboard delivers the ultimate blend of personalization, performance, and style — built to make every wave your best one yet.
What is Surfboard volume and is it important?
Surfboard volume refers to the amount of space a surfboard occupies, measured in liters. It is a key factor in determining a board’s buoyancy, stability, and paddling ease. Generally, the higher the volume, the more flotation the board provides, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. For beginners or surfers learning new techniques, a higher volume board helps with balance and wave-catching. More advanced surfers, on the other hand, may opt for a lower volume board for greater maneuverability and control in bigger, faster waves.
Computer generated Surfboard Profile of a Mid Length
Surfboard volume is important because it directly influences how the board performs in the water and how the surfer feels while riding it. Choosing the right volume is essential for matching the board to the surfer’s skill level, body weight, and the types of waves they ride.
However a skilled craftsman like your local surfboard shaper does not always need to use volume as a tool to make you a great Custom Surfboard, sometimes volume can even confuse the issue when ordering a surfboard. For example a Mini Simmons surfboard volume does not calculate the level of lift generated by the board so a lower volume may be required.
What size Custom Surfboard to order?
Your Custom Surfboard size is crucial in determining how the board performs in the water. The ideal size depends on a surfer’s skill level, weight, and the type of waves they’ll be riding. As a general guide, beginners often benefit from longer, wider boards (around 7 to 9 feet) for stability and easier paddling, while intermediate surfers may opt for boards between 6 to 7 feet for better maneuverability. Advanced surfers typically go for shorter boards (under 6 feet) to perform quick turns and tricks in more challenging conditions. To choose the right size, consider your height, weight, and experience level. Surfboard shapers or shops can help you find the perfect fit by factoring in these elements, ensuring a board that supports your progression and style.
Things to consider when ordering Custom Boards
The Custom Shape: what type of surfboard are you after this includes your level of ability and the type of waves you like to surf
Custom Size: It’s very important to get the right size Board. We don’t use a Surfboard volume calculator as i find they don’t always give you the right volume and size. Instead i will talk to you about your custom board and guide you through the process so you understand exactly why i recommend the size board i do. Then i will supply you with a profile of your surfboard so you know exactly what you are buying.
Custom Artwork: Feel free to email any ideas on artwork and resin tints you find on the internet, you could even do a drawing of the board, it does not have to be a work of art as long as i have a good idea of the colors and design. Also check our Board gallery for ideas.
Custom Construction: These days there is a lot of surfboard construction options available from normal Poly to vacuum bagged Eco construction so feel free to discuss the options.
Time frame: It takes about 4 weeks to produce your custom surfboard
Contact Steve: northerndawnsurfboards@gmail.com to discuss your custom order surfboard!
Check out our Surf Shop for an off the rack Surfboard, you may just find the perfect board waiting for you SURF PUNK
