What is a Custom Surfboard?
A custom surfboard is a surfboard that is specially designed and handcrafted to suit an individual surfer’s needs, style, body type, and local wave conditions. Unlike mass-produced boards, custom surfboards are shaped by skilled craftsmen who work closely with the surfer to create a board that offers optimal performance and personal feel. Whether it’s adjusting the length, width, thickness, fin setup, or even the artwork, a custom surfboard is tailored to match the rider’s exact preferences, making it a unique and highly functional piece of equipment. For surfers looking to take their performance to the next level or simply ride something truly one-of-a-kind, a custom surfboard is the ultimate choice.
What is 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.
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 Surfboard to order?
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.
Some things to consider!
The Shape: what type of surfboard are you after this includes your ability and the type of waves you like to surf
Size: It’s very important to get the right size Board i can help you out with this by calculating the right volume or giving you some advice on how the board will perform at different sizes.
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.
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 so give yourself plenty of time to order, things can go wrong when waiting for materials and delays do happen.
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