Meet the Surfboard Shaper – David Cunningham

March 1st, 2017

david in blue room Meet the Surfboard Shaper   David CunninghamDavid Cunningham of Horizon Board Company

Interview by Kelly Groce

Photography by Adam Valadez

David Cunningham is a Texas based surfboard shaper for Horizon Board Company and a flyfishing rod designer for Marshfly USA. We dropped in on David at his shaping shack in Surfside and had the pleasure of talking with him about his shaping style, philosphy and the future of Texas surfing. Enjoy.

The age old question: how did you get into surfboard shaping?

I got into board building because I wanted good quality boards and did not want to have to pay retail prices for them. Same goes for the rod building, I have always had a dilemma with purchasing things that I can learn to build myself.

Are you more influenced from surf style of the past or present?

I am most influenced from the surf style of the past. Specifically the transitional period from the late 60’s through the mid 70’s. I always admired the styles of guys like Larry Bertleman, Billy Hamilton, Gerry Lopez, and Rory Russel.

What’s your shaping philosophy?

My philosophy when it comes to shaping is following my routine/method. Never deviate. This allows me to achieve consistency. At the core, I believe that shaper is constantly evolving, and with every board I shape I am learning more/ keeping my mind open to new ideas and concepts.

horizon surfing Meet the Surfboard Shaper   David Cunningham

What are your most popular models?

Mid-lengths, I am working on new concepts for boards from 7-8 ft. Fish boards will always be a big part of what I do and of course classic long board shapes.

What is unique about the boards you shape?

I think what makes my boards unique is a good blend of past and present. I have a tendency to lean towards more classic/retro outlines, with contemporary rail profiles and bottom contours.

How is your shaping influenced by Texas?

Building boards for Texas is a challenge. I think a lot of Texas surfers fall victim to West Coast marketing strategies. I think it is important for a surfer to be honest about their ability, and the conditions they are required to perform in.  With that as a guideline, locally, I  am a fan of wider outlines, slight increases in volume, and fin configurations that work in slower wave conditions.

What do you want/see for the future of Texas surfboard shaping and surfing?

As far as the future of surfing in Texas goes, I hope that surfers continue to be open minded about the boards they are using. Currently, it’s really common to see a variety of boards in the water. This is good because it leads to progression. Twenty years ago a rider might not have been able to link to a board that was good for him because it wasn’t the cool thing or current trend. I hope this open mindedness continues. I think this is going to lead to new innovations and raise the bar of Texas surfing. As far as shaping goes, I really hope to see the younger generation get involved and I hope that the older shapers look for someone to mentor. That’s how I learned, and without the younger guys getting involved hand shaping boards could become a lost art.

Not only do you make surfboards, but you also make your own fly fishing rods. Tell us more about that.

I have been building rods for over 20 years, I started off with conventional rods, and as I grew as an angler I became interested in flyfishing. With that I started to design fly rods for Marshfly USA. It’s been a great project between myself, Rob Schumske, and James Jackson. We have had Marshfly up and running for three years and it has been a great blend of high performance fly rods, apparel and accessories . Our main focus has been inshore saltwater rods, but we have also been engaged with some trout fisheries located in Georgia, Colorado, and the Texas Hill Country.

When you aren’t shaping, where can we find you?

When I am not shaping you can find me hunting, fishing, and surfing with my family. Texas has been a great place for me to stay balanced, I love the outdoors and there are  plenty of activities to keep me occupied here on the coast.

If you are interested in getting a custom surfboard or fly rod made, feel free contact David Cunningham at:

979-201-9046

coastaldesigns@yahoo.com

www.marshflyusa.com

Cold Weather Surf Gear

November 1st, 2015

gabeprusmack Cold Weather Surf Gear

Photographer: Adam Valadez. Surfer: Gabe Prusmack

Don’t let chilly mornings win. This cold weather surf gear will keep you warm while you keep doing what you love. These items make great Christmas gifts too.

 

WETSUITS

OXNeillXWetsuit Cold Weather Surf Gear

O’Neill Men’s Reactor 3/2 Full Wetsuit

 

RipXCurlXWetsuitXWomens

Rip Curl Women’s Dawn Patrol 3/2 Full Wetsuit

 

HEAD GEAR

quiksilverhood

Quiksilver Cypher 2mm Hood with Dickie

 

GLOVES

Quiksilvergloves

Quiksilver Neo Goo 4mm 5 Finger Gloves

 

SURF BOOTIES

RipCurlXBooties

Rip Curl Rubber Soul Plus Split Toe Booties

 

 

Surfing Galveston

February 25th, 2015

john Surfing Galveston

John Callahan cruising down the line in Galveston, TX. Photo by Kelly Groce

By Kelly Groce

Whenever you hear the word surfing, most people think of Hawaii, California, or Mexico… not Texas. Luckily Texas has 300+ miles of coast along the Gulf of Mexico for the opportunity of good waves. Galveston might not always have the best surf, but at least there’s something to give us surfers our fix.

Texans will surf any kind of conditions that are coming their way whether that’s a hurricane, chasing tanker waves, ice cold waters, rain, or howling winds, but that’s what makes us unique. We usually deal with horrible conditions, but aren’t completely aware of it because it’s all we know. That’s where the saying “if you can surf in Texas, you can surf anywhere” comes from. Once Texan surfers go to a place like California or Mexico with solid waves, we are in hog heaven because the waves are clean and come in sets.

If you are planning to learn how to surf, you should. After your first experience, you will get bitten by the surf bug and want to go every chance you can. Spring is a great time to learn since the water temperature starts to get warmer after the cold winter. This article will direct you on where to surf, what you will need, etc. Have fun!

surfcamp Surfing GalvestonCan I take a surf lesson or join a surf camp?

Yes, Ohana Surf & Skate in Galveston offers both surf lessons and surf camps. Visit their website or call to find out the schedule and pricing. If you have a friend that has a board and surfs, that is also a great way to learn while having fun.

 

Photo by Kimmy Callahan

Photo by Kimmy Callahan

Where do I surf in Galveston?

Surf any of the jetties between Pleasure Pier and 61st Street When you are first getting started, avoid the jetties with a big crowd, but don’t surf by yourself either.

southernspearsWhere can I rent a surfboard?

Southern Spears Surf Shop has surfboards you can rent for the whole day for only $25. They have a variety of sizes so you can choose which one you feel the most comfortable on.

What size board do I use?

The bigger, the better. A longboard is definitely the way to go when you are trying to learn how to surf. Look to rent a board that is 8 feet long or more. Longboards are the best bet for small Texas surf. Once you pick it up, you can try using a shortboard on the bigger days.

What other equipment/gear do I need?

You will need a leash, wax, and a spring suit (the water might be chilly). You can get these things from any surf shop like Ohana Surf & Skate or Southern Spears.

For more information on surfing, please visit:

Ohana Surf & Skate – 2814 Avenue R 1/2, Galveston, TX 77550 • (409) 763-2700

Southern Spears Surf Shop – 6026 Seawall Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77551 • (409) 744-2772

Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine