Sneak Peek of my new series, “Mike’s Surf Talk”. Stay tuned into our social media accounts where we will be announcing my first Facebook LIVE “Mike’s Surf Talk”.
Category: Uncategorized
Aloha,
Some of us who surf know many of the greats: Kelly Slater, Andy Irons and Laird Hamilton. Some of us don’t know about the original greats, that turned surfing into a worldwide sport. This is a tribute to Duke Kahanamoku, the father of surfing the original Waterman. Duke Kahanamoku inspiritual words say it all on the back of his business cards: “In Hawaii we greet friends, loved ones or strangers with ‘Aloha,’ which means with love. Aloha is the key word to the universal spirit of real hospitality, which makes Hawaii renowned as the world’s center for understanding and fellowship. Try meeting or leaving people with Aloha. You’ll be surprised by their reaction. I believe it, and it is my creed. Aloha to you.”
Duke was born on August 20th 1890 in Honolulu, Hawaii and by the age of eight he taught himself how to surf in Waikiki Beach. Duke became a strong swimmer at an early age and in 1911 swam for the first time competitively in Hawaii’s first AAU swim meet. From there he became an Olympic Swimmer breaking the 100-meter freestyle in 1912 in Stockholm, using the famous “Kahanamoku Kick”, the Encyclopedia of Surfing says. He went on to break records and won a gold medal in the 1920 Summer Olympics and a silver at the 1924 Olympics at the age of 34!
As if Dukes life thus far wasn’t impressive enough, in 1925 the Honolulu Star-Bulletin named his next milestone a “Superhuman Rescue Act”. According to an article review he saved eight fisherman off the coast of Newport Beach California where a 40-foot shipping boat was destroyed by hazardous waters (The Inertia). His ability to be fearless led him to greatness in many areas, but most importantly was his greatness in surfing.
Duke Kahanamoku propelled surfing into popularity by utilizing his fame as a swimmer to get the attention of the masses drawing them to surf events in California and on the Atlantic Coast. According to the Encyclopedia of Surfing, some of his first exhibitions in 1912 were right here in Atlantic City, New Jersey! He went on to spread the joy of surfing to Australia and New Zealand in 1914 to 1915, teaching people all over the world how to surf and about surfing culture. This undoubtedly universalized surfing, but specifically popularized surfing along the coast of Southern California starting in 1915 through the 1930s. The impact these events had on the surfing community proves this man is truly legendary in the surf realm and should be revered as such.
Not only was Duke a Surf phenom, in his later years he served as an Ambassador for Hawaii and pushed for Statehood. Once Hawaii became a state he was given the paid title of “Ambassador of Aloha”. The father of surfing was also an actor, appearing in at least 14 films. You can tell that this is a man that lived his life with passion, momentum, courage and love; love for everything he did and everyone he knew. He overcame many adversities and became the epitome of greatness in everything he achieved. The love of his hobbies and his heritage is a major reason that surfing is now considered a sport and not just a hobby. The legend of Duke Kahanamoku lives on in several surfing, swimming and the Olympic Hall of Fame. We thank you Duke, hopefully one day I will have the honor of standing next to your Bronze Statue in Waikiki.
Photographer: Berliner Illustrirte Zeitung
If you’ve spent any time over the last few decades at your local surf shop, or with a local shaper discussing the various methods in use to craft surfboards there’s a very high chance you’ve heard the term CNC. Short for “computer numerical control”, CNC machines have redefined the way in which many companies approach surfboard production. There is a common misconception that CNC boards are the same as molded, or “pop-out” surfboards. These two methods are often confused because each of them involve the use of automated machinery, however the manner in which the machinery creates those boards is entirely different.
In essence, a CNC machine is an extension of a shapers toolset. Utilizing the capabilities of the machine allows the shaper to expedite turnaround time, production flow, as well as keep cost and labor at a minimum. The implementation of technology in the surfing industry has increased at a phenomenal rate over the last few decades. From working with new materials, to developing entirely new shapes, the surfboard industry has taken giants steps in progression and experimentation. That is not to say that these advancements have not been met with resistance and skepticism. Many traditionalists still believe the shaping of a surfboard to be a true art form that should be left only to human hands, others however have taken notice to the advantages of CNC machines and began to push the boundaries of shaping, previously thought to be finite.
Another common misconception is that these CNC machines are creating boards from start to finish, that’s simply not true. To properly craft a board through a CNC it is essential to have a detailed understanding of surfboard concepts. Outline, rocker, thickness, tail, rails, volume; just to name a few are all key components to ensuring that the board the machine will be creating is an accurate physical translation of the board designed on paper. The greatest benefit of the CNC is the labor intensive rough shaping, which greatly expedites the shapers job. Where formerly the shaper would begin with a large foam blank, slowly carving it down to the desired outline, then refining that outline in greater detail, now with the CNC, the majority of the cutting is done by the machine leaving only the refining process to be taken care of by the shapers hands.
CNC machines have become a polarizing tool in the surfing industry. Where formerly the process of creating a surfboard consisted of long and tedious experimentations; a series of trial and error in determining what did and did not work until the desired performance was reached. Even once a shaper had the dimensions and outline to recreate a given board, it was still a tedious process to recreate a particular model, even more so when adjustments needed to be made to compensate for differences in rider sizes or wave conditions. Today however, with the use of CNC machines shapers are afforded the freedom to refine a shape to their desired specifications, and plug those dimensions into the CNC, to produce a greater quantity of a given board without compromising quality or performance.
In the world of sports few activities require the depth and intricacy that surfing demands, and that’s only speaking in regards to choosing the proper equipment. Choosing the correct surfboard; weather you consider yourself to be a beginner, intermediate, or advanced rider is not only one of the most important decisions you’re going to make but one of the the most complicated. There are a myriad of factors that go into deciding what board is the right one for you. From board size, to rider size, wave conditions and experience level, all of these factors will play a role.
Today’s focus is going to be on highlighting the main differences between molded surfboards, also known as pop-outs and other common types of surfboards that are in production today. The definition of a surfboard is incredibly broad, it refers to any buoyant board that is used for the sport of surfing. That however does not mean that any board you put into the water is going to behave in the same manner, the reality is in fact quite the contrary.
A pop-out surfboard is in essence, the cheapest way for a company to produce a large quantity of identical shapes. The technique of molding a surfboard completely eliminates any semblance of originality or craftsmanship, removing the process’ of unique designing, shaping, and glassing. The sacrifice of craftsmanship for greater board quantities also eliminates many of the performance aspects of the surfboard that benefit the development of the rider.
When a shaper produces a board, they’re afforded the opportunity to make tweaks to any shape or design based on different feedback they receive. Perhaps a particular board needs less rocker, or more width through the nose, or an entirely different tail. Any one of these can be altered on the next board done by the shaper, creating a more performance oriented product. When a factory using molds produce board’s, their specs and dimensions are finite, and the boards are produced in a large quantity. What this means is that if a particular shape is found to have an area that needs improvement to develop greater performance characteristics, it cannot be changed, the mold is already set and a large number of boards are already in production and hitting the water. Pop-out surfboards are the “fast-food” of the surfboard industry; quick and easy to produce but often unsatisfying and regrettable.
If you are like me, designs are very important when surfboards and skateboards are involved. Size, rails, thickness, shapes and materials give you a variety of choices to fit your surfing style, thankfully Mike Sciarra has a gift for designing boards that suit our needs. Since Mike first opened his surf shop in 1969, Mike has concentrated on designs that work ranging from surfboards to apparel.
Kona is looking to the past for inspiration. With the resurgence of apparel, surfboard, and skateboard designs that once stocked the shelves of Kona, are being given a new life and a modern update through Mike Sciarras’ team. By having the most up-to-date equipment and materials Kona is bringing back the past, exciting everyone that has shopped with the company for the past decades. Kona is giving the youths of today the benefit of experiencing the designs that worked for surfers in the 70’s. The surfing and skateboarding community have always helped out with their feedback. Mike observes, listens, & tests. This is why the Kona brand is popular and lasted so long. Today, Kona surf company does all their design in-house and is always trying to invent new designs to bring to life. So to get an idea of what Kona Surf Co is about, walk into one of their stores on Rio Grande Ave and get a vibe for the brand being brought back to life.
The Kona Surf Co strives to live up to this motto. “Taking inspiration from Michael Sciarras’ journey to and from Hawaii the Kona Surf Company is on a mission to build quality products that are designed to help you follow the waves”. They thrive on making your shopping experience a memorable one and to make sure you get the best product that last as long as the stories told around them!
Author’s Note: My life has benefited tremendously from the many years of surfing and hanging out with my surfing friends. It is a positive and spiritual way of life and a good way to have the “natural high”, the waves give when breaking clean and fast. If you have never surfed, visit the Kona Stores and asked for their advice and direction. “Follow the Waves” and come to Wildwood, New jersey and have one of the best experience of your life!
Surfs Up!
Bill Flynn
Author of the book, Surfers Love Story
For you readers who have never been to the barrier island of The Wildwoods, let me say: The beaches are the largest beaches on the East Coast and the sand is a smooth, fine type of sand. There are five miles of beach open to the public free of charge. At the south end of the island the beaches are closed to public use because of wildlife protection. This entails close to two miles of protected areas which include dunes and saltwater wetlands. The North end of the island is bordered by Hereford Inlet which allows the tidewaters to flow in and out of the island’s back bays. For decades surfers have disfavored the inlet area because of the strong currents, uneven bottom surfaces, and unreliable wave formations. From Seventh Avenue, in North Wildwood to Diamond Beach in Lower Township, there are many good breaks for surfing. Rambler Road in Wildwood Crest is a good surfing beach and the city allows surfing there all day long.
The south end of Wildwood Crest is another fun breaking area. Where the old fishing pier is located on Aster Road has always been a favorite surfing beach. Since the 1960’s and 1970’s these beaches have widened tremendously but the wave breaks are still good. Decent “rights” or “lefts” are still there. In North Wildwood I suggest the beaches at Seventh, Eighth, Twenty-Fifth, and Twenty-Sixth Avenues. Check out the waves at Fifteenth and Sixteenth Avenues as well.
When you wipe out along the Wildwood beaches you hit sand when you hit the bottom. There no rocks or coral to worry about. If you are a surfer from Maine you are well aware of the dangers of rock formations. Hello to those surfers in York, Maine! I have been there and your breaks are favorable. You have a great spot. For those who have surfed above a live or dead coral bottom, you will appreciate our sandy bottom. You might get pounded if the waves are big but you won’t get cut up.
Bill Flynn
2016
Wildwood, N.J.
Author of Surfers’ Love Story
Photographer: Eric Sorensen
How do we define a Surfer? The obvious definition would be: one who rides the waves on a surfboard. But….. that is too simplistic and ignores other styles. Bodysurfers are a significant number of people around the world. They may argue that they are the most “natural” breed since it is simply their body and the wave which gives them their sport. Board surfers will say they are the only “true surfers” because it is an art of riding each wave using their surfboard to carve out a line according to how the wave breaks and the size of the wave. These surfers use the “walls” of the wave, the crest of the wave, the tube created by a breaking wave, and generally do not like the whitewater. Then there are those who use a sail to generate themselves and their board across the water. It is simply another way of surf riding and great to do where waves are not available. Some use both the waves and the smooth surfaces which is an art in itself.
When I think of a surfer, these words come to mind: Freedom, Waves, Saltwater, Nature, Natural Looks, Joy, Good times, Positive Spirits, and Love of the Art. You will think of other words; I am sure.
The average surfer uses a surfboard, body, and a skateboard when flat. If the surf is flat waterskiing comes into play. Many surfers snowboard also. How do we define surfer? They are many ways, but generally it is a male or female, young and old who loves to enjoy the freedom of the ocean and the nature. We are blessed to have something like this to enjoy. Gives us your input in the comment section below.
Bill Flynn
2016
Wildwood, N.J.
Author of Surfers’ Love Story
Photographer: Dylan Jurusz
I will say one thing: Launching a website has been one of the hardest things that I have ever done.
Yes, www.Konasports.com has been around for almost ten years, but this is different. This is something special.
Despite our efforts, Mother Nature has not been easy on us here in New Jersey. We’ve seen more than our fair share of storms, floods, power outages and blizzards in the last 2 years. But that has not stopped us from shedding our cocoon much like caterpillar, to turn into the Kona Surf Company that you see before you today. We’ve been working hard not only on our social media presence (which is so crucial) but also on our product set, upping the quality to a level that is able to stand next to any of the main surf brands in the arena. The goal over the last 2 years has been this: To tell the Kona story, and breathe new life into the legacy that we as a company have built. Simply put, we plan on letting our brand new product offering speak for itself. Soft tri-blend shirts. Strong carbon fiber SUP paddles. On trend snap-back hats and beanies. And most of all, surfboards and stand up paddle boards that we are very proud to call our own.
Coming May 2016, we will be unveiling a full range of performance oriented short boards with shapes that make sense both for our New Jersey waves, and also bigger waves abroad. These will come in both PU and epoxy make ups, with a variety of fin box choices for you to make the call. Our fun boards and long boards will be accessible to everyone from the eager novice to the more experienced nose-rider and feature graphics and paint jobs that will make anyone look twice. And finally, our SUP range is something that we are very proud of, as we all know this category is taking the world (both coastal and in-land areas) by storm. If you haven’t been out for a paddle yet, or are somewhat intimidated by the equipment or the open water, I can assure you that it is not only a breeze to pick up, but also a great workout to boot.
I will leave you with one closing statement before letting you explore the brand new website, which has been a labor of love to say the least: Come check out the brand new Kona Surf Company, both in-store and online. You are going to love what you see. We as a team are very confident that you will be blown away by the advances that we’ve made in all aspects of the business. Everything from product quality to community outreach, store-layout to customer service has been escalated, as we shed the “mom & pop” surf-shop mentality, and become the brand new Kona Surf Company.
See you out in the water
Mike
For most east coast surf retailers, the winter months bring a quiet solitude that lets us step back, and reevaluate how we stand after a hectic summer season. Walk through traffic at the shop is minimal, and sales are slow. These months let us finally breathe again, and plan for next summer. One would think that January would be a time of relaxation for surf shops located next to the frigid Atlantic Ocean. This is true, except for one beacon of light in the middle of the month. One little get-together, that we like to call SURF EXPO.
It’s 6am on a Thursday morning. I’m yawning, having been up at 2am to make the drive from Wildwood to the Philly Airport. My boarding section is beginning to fill up for a 6:30AM flight to Orlando. If you look around, you can start to pick out who is going where on their winter vacations. Dads with floral print shirts struggle with luggage as their children with Mickey hats anticipate a fun filled week at Disney World. Other passengers, like myself, have just one carry-on. We’re looking to travel light, because we aren’t staying long. Our mission? To check out the latest and greatest surf and skate hard goods, apparel and accessories at the Orlando convention center.
Upon arrival, its clear that while talking business is all well-and-good, some people use this 3 day event as a mini vacation, leaving the cold grey skies behind for the warm sunny atmosphere of Florida. Stories of epic waves are told, laughs are shared between old friends, and a general ambiance of positively fills the convention center. My plan, once in the building, was to knock out 2 full days of hour-long appointments with each of my top apparel, sunglass, watch and footwear brands. These meetings are important for a plethora of reasons, one of which is to discuss new products for 2013. Each and every brand proudly showcases their new spin on a product, and we in turn place orders for the new hotness.
For Electric Visual, it was unveiling their new volt logo for 2013. You’ll hear more about this in the months to come. For Lost Surfboards, it was Matt Biolos’ new Lazyboy collection. These wide, stubby boards will be trickling into shops all over the US as fast as the boys in the warehouse can crank them out. Hurley was proud to announce the absorption of the Nike Surfing team, with the HUGE addition of John John Florence to their squad.
These are just a few of the many exciting new developments that are in the works for spring and summer 2013. After 2 long days in my Rainbows, Hurley shorts and a Jetty “Sandy Relief” t-shirt, I made my way back to the airport with a backpack FULL of catalogs, prebook orders, and some free swag to boot. All in all, Surf Expo is of vital importance to the action sports community, and especially to the Jersey Shore. It allows surf retailers to meet face to face with the men and women that are shaping our industry, one board short, bag or board at a time.
What began as quietly whispered rumors between fellow surfers has now been confirmed as 100% FACT. Beginning in 2013, Nike will be removing its hands from the surf world, and rolling all of it’s sponsored team members under the Hurley name. This is huge news for an industry that is still in the midst of rebuilding after one of the worst natural disasters to hit the eastern seaboard in decades. Nike has the power to influence everything that it touches, and it absolutely left it’s mark on surf culture.
A mega-conglomerate like Nike, in theory, should have no business in the slow and mellow surf world. Their business motto of “Just do it” seems counterproductive to the slacker adolescent who is skipping school to go waste time out catching waves. This was the thought process in the past, but times they are definitely changing. Today’s up and coming surfer eats well, treats his body with respect, trains hard both on land and in the water, and strives to excel in all activities. A surfer like Kolohe Andino fits the mold of today’s pro surfer. And he also conveniently fits the mold that Nike Surfing was looking for. He proudly displayed the sponsorship swoosh on his lost sub-scorcher, which many saw as the ultimate form of “selling out.” Similar to how Nike Skateboarding took time to grow on the culture that it was infiltrating, Nike Surfing’s debut was met with harsh criticism in the early days. But after signing such amazing talent right out of the gate, the critics soon realized that Nike would be a real contender in the surf world. But after 2 years of surfer and contest sponsorships and endless magazine and online media blitzes, the plug has finally been pulled.
One cant help but ponder what a team like Hurley is going to become with the absorption of the Nike team. Hurley was an already stacked team, consisting of 7 hugely talented surfers, 2 of whom are living legends. Rob Machado and Tim Curran set the precedent for younger surfers all over the world. And now the family has 3 new babies to welcome. Julian Wilson, Carissa Moore and Kolohe Andino, all of whom are under 21 years old yet have a TON of experience on the tour circuit.
All told, I feel that 2013 is going to be a huge year for surfing. The east coast is recovering from Hurricane Sandy, and coming back stronger than ever. A huge name like Nike is now out of the picture, with Under Amour possibly sneaking in to take it’s place very soon. Groms are landing airs that were never thought possible 5 years ago. Spirits are as high as they’ve ever been, and hopefully we gets a full year of waves to match.