I’m writing a book and am looking for a surfboard historian that can do a brief discussion on the evolution of surfboards from 1980 to the present. Any referrals are appreciated. Attached is a copy of a similar book I did in 2009. Thanks Much, Jim
I think Andy Anderson may be helpful, he is a surf historian on a mission!
http://surfcrazy.com/stanleys/html/logocomments.html
and
http://stokednboard.surfingheritage.org/
George
Matt Warshaw is the man.
Great guy and he is moving away from the Beach so he will have lots of time to think-talk about surfing.
I doubt there is one single board model that was not discussed here at some time or another.
I would trust anyone claiming to be a surf historian as far as I could toss them and a friend. Kind of like the person on the documentary about, " The Brady Bunch " who called herself a Bradyologist. It’s good for a laugh and not much more.
There is tons of information right here. My suggestion is to contact as many of the folks who did the boards your are interested in directly. You will find that perspectives about surfboard evolution are different. I don’t think there is one right story but more than a few perspectives. The Bob or Dick thread was a great example.
The surfboard never really evolved as much as changed around to fit certain styles and style preferences made popular by magazines or in local areas. When it started getting into serious experimentation to get results was when the pro tour started. Some call it the creative or exerimental period between 1978 and 1981. Almost all of the major players from the time you mention are still alive. Many are still producing.
Most folks here are helpful.