Dave Stubbs Interview

David Stubbs is a leading shaper and manufacturer of world class surfboards, longboards, SUP’s, and kiteboards. As an avid contest surfer and craftsman his focus has always been developing cutting edge products. Dave has recently teamed up with Starboard to help develop, innovate and create some of the best surfboards on the market. We sat down and had a quick chat with Dave.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SHAPING SURFBOARDS FOR?
I started shaping when I was in school, as I couldn’t afford to buy my own surfboards. Thirty years later and I haven’t stopped shaping. (1980)

WHAT SHAPERS INFLUENCED YOU EARLY IN YOUR CAREER?
Clive Barber helped me a lot, and then of course there is Simon Anderson and Merrick.

HOW DO YOU FEEL SURFERS SHAPE REFERENCES HAVE CHANGED OVER THE  YEARS?
I think that boards have done a full circle from the 80s; being wider and flatter, to becoming more skinny and narrow, and then returning to the wider dumpster-style boards with fuller outlines and noses that are so popular today.

WHAT PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS DO YOU FEEL ARE NECESSARY TO BE A SUCCESSFUL SHAPER?
A good listener! A good shaper needs to be able to make great boards based on each individuals personal needs.

YOU ARE KNOWN FOR YOUR CRAFTSMANSHIP.  WHAT OTHER PROJECTS HAVE YOU DONE IN THE PAST?
I handcraft acoustic and electric guitars as a hobby, and have recently started building wood and composite bicycles.

YOU ARE AN ACCOMPLISHED SURFER YOURSELF. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS?
I spent multiple years competing for the Western Province team, both in shortboard and longboard divisions. I am also 3 time South African Longboard Champion.

WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR PROMINENT SOUTH AFRICAN RIDERS?

Matt Moir – 2x ISA World longboard champion

Simone Robb – ISA World longboard champion

Justin Bing – South African longboard champion

Matt Bromley – Multiple South African shortboard champion

Jordan Alexander – Air specialist

WHERE DO YOU SEE THE FUTURE OF SURFBOARD DESIGN?

I think the future of surfboards will change partly in the shape of the boards, but mostly in the construction, the boards becoming lighter and stronger, undoubtedly improved.

YOUR IDEAL SURF BREAK?
Any wave that allows you to do multiple turns and I am happy!