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Writer's pictureCord Surfboards

Why Custom Surfboards Hit Different

Any surfer can buy a mass-produced, factory pop out, but if you’re looking for something special and specific to you, the best way to go is custom. Offering a range of benefits from being suited to your skill level and body type, to going better in your home break, a custom surfboard is tailored to your unique and individual needs. Working with Cord Surfboards you have complete freedom to refine every inch of your new stick, whilst utilising head shaper Markie’s deep experience and design knowledge. Read on for the reasons we think custom surfboards just hit different…


Tailored to Your Skill Level


Mass-produced surfboards are built to stock dimensions, and obviously one size does not fit all. A custom surfboard can be shaped to suit your current skill level, therefore enabling you to practice, progress and enjoy being in the water. A great choice for all levels, avoid battling in the white water on a toothpick or not having the best manoeuvrability or paddle speed on big days with a board that is suited to your ability.


sean lascelles doing a cutback on an orange cord surfboard

Optimised for Your Physiology


Every body is different and unique, and a one-size-fits-all surfboard doesn’t exist. When working with the crew at Cord, we take into consideration your height, weight and stance, meaning your new custom surfboard is literally designed with you in mind. By nailing down the perfect dimensions you’ll be able to push your new board in all kinds of conditions.


Perfect for Your Local Waves (or Favourite Destination)


Whether your daily break offers onshore slop or overhead barrels, your custom surfboard should go well in the conditions you surf most. Our team can chat through your local break (we’ve probably even surfed there) and come up with a design that will work for the average day, meaning you can’t blame a bad surf on your equipment. Sorry. On the other hand, if you’re treating yourself to a new board for a trip abroad, it’s important to consider the kinds of waves you’ll be riding, as Fiji offers something completely different to Fistral…


a pair of custom surfboards with multi-coloured resin tints by cord surfboards

Unique Design


The cherry on top of custom surfboard shaping is the design. With the freedom to go for any colour and pattern, you can choose whatever you’ve always wanted. Pink deck with unique artwork on the bottom? Rainbow rails? An all black stealth stick? Or keep it classic and clear - it’s up to you.


Alongside the artwork, you have the opportunity to tweak every aspect, from where the leash plug sits to the fin set-up (boxes or glass ons?), the number and type of stringers and the details of the glass job, from the weight of the cloth through to options like volan patches - all refined by hand by our knowledgeable shapers.





surfboard sander sanding a custom surfboard

Durability and Quality Craftsmanship


Your off-the-shelf setup might be good quality, but can you guarantee that? Custom surfboards from Cord are built from scratch with only the highest quality components that are tried and tested by our team of shapers and riders. Trust Cord Surfboards to create something that will last the test of time, unless you snap it at low tide Aggie this winter, but that’s on you.


Support Local Shapers and the Surfing Community


Support local! Keeping your cash in the local economy allows local businesses to thrive and survive. The humble surf shop and shapers have been at the core of the surfing community since the start, and if you don’t use them you loose them. We know the breaks up and down the country, plus further afield to Ireland and Indonesia, like the back of our hand, and the boards we shape are designed to thrive at your favourite spots. We want you to love your new board, have epic sessions and tell your friends.




tail of a fish style custom surfboard made with an agave core

Environmental Considerations


Custom surfboards can also be a more environmentally friendly option compared to mass-produced boards. Many shapers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their work and are exploring ways to create surfboards using more sustainable materials and eco-conscious practices. For example, we’ve been offering bio-blanks at the moment that’re proving very popular with the team, and are now offering plant-based agave surfboard cores - watch this space.



cord surfboards founder david humphrey lascelles surfing in australia in 1965

The Legacy of Custom Surfboards


Before Markie was at the helm, his dad and local legend Chops ran the show. Cord Surfboards has a rich history of shaping, travel and community that spans the globe, and the legacy of custom surfboards is found all over the world. From the early days of surfing, when boards were handmade by local craftsmen, to the modern era, where advanced materials and techniques are used to create high-performance boards, custom surfboards have always been at the heart of surfing culture.



In conclusion, custom surfboards offer a range of benefits that make them a winner over the mass-produced pop outs pumped out of factories. There’s no feeling quite like picking up your fresh custom, except taking it out and finding out it goes like a dream too. Want to know what we’re talking about? Get in touch with Markie at Cord Surfboards to start planning your perfect custom surfboard.



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