Tom Blake - the wooden surfboard pioneer who inspires us

  Every time we shape a board,  and particularly on October Wooden Surfboard Making Workshop Eve  we think about the legends who came before — and one name always stands out: Tom Blake.

 In the 1930s, Blake changed surfing forever. He was one of the first to hollow out wooden surfboards, making them lighter, faster, and easier to ride. He added the very first fin to a board (a “keel” from an old boat!) and helped turn surfing into the fluid, powerful style we know today.

 At Bywater Surfwe draw on his pioneering spirit every time we build a hollow wooden surfboard.

 Just like Blake, we blend tradition with innovation — honouring the craft while making boards that glide beautifully and last a lifetime.

Here’s to the originals who paved the way 🌊

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