Matt Parker - Choosing Boards and Breaking Surfing Rules

Welcome to the Surf Mastery Podcast, where we delve into the fascinating intersections of life, sports, and the art of mastering the surf. In this episode, our host Michael John Frampton sits down with Matt Parker from Album Surf to discuss the intricacies of surfboard shaping, the evolution of surf culture, and the joys of riding different types of boards.
Matt Parker is a seasoned surfer and shaper from Southern California who started crafting surfboards in his garage in 2001. Now, Album Surf is one of the largest surfboard companies, known for its diverse range of high-quality boards. Matt’s philosophy on surfboard design emphasizes the harmonious blend of curves and how they interact with the water, aiming to make every board feel like an extension of the surfer’s feet and mind.
Episode Highlights:
- The Origins of Album Surf: Matt shares how he started shaping surfboards in his garage in 2001 and grew Album Surf into a renowned company.
- Philosophy of Surfboard Design: Discussing his unique approach to shaping, Matt explains the importance of creating boards that blend seamlessly with the water.
- Surfing in Southern California vs. New Zealand: A comparison of surf conditions and the surfing culture in these two iconic locations.
- The Evolution of Surfboard Variety: Exploring the trend of surfers, including professionals, moving away from high-performance shortboards to experimenting with various types of boards.
- Educational Insights: Michael and Matt discuss the importance of riding different boards to improve surfing skills and the misconceptions many surfers have about the type of board they should use.
- Personal Anecdotes and Experiences: Matt and Michael share personal stories about their favorite boards and memorable surfing experiences.
Key Quotes:
"The surfboard is a constant blending of curves and how they interact with the water, making those curves feel comfortable, like an extension of your feet and your mind." - Matt Parker
"Are you actually having fun? That’s what it should be about, not just projecting competency and coolness in the lineup." - Matt Parker
"It's the best time to be alive as a surfer because you really have more options nowadays than you ever have in the past." - Matt Parker
Follow Matt Parker:
Instagram: @albumsurf
Linkedin: matt-parker-7877a17
Website: albumsurf.com
Don’t forget to visit our new website for a free PDF download outlining Michael’s top five insights from the show, and reach out if you know anyone at UA-cam to help resolve access issues!
Enjoy the episode and happy surfing!

[@cabacronulla]

Lets not forget the... GLASSERS-SANDERS-FINISH COATERS-POLISHERS...I started in the Industry way back in 1976 as a 15yrs old in Cronulla...and now at 65 still give respect to ALL the processes...And still love riding self made - 5'-11'x 20'' x 2 3/8'' Flyer Swallow Tail Thrusters n Quads. Cheers.And get to share waves around here on the Tweed Coast with MARGOn MICAH.

[@jjwinter04]

just got a 6'2 vesper about to give it a up today 😍

[@curtisautenrieth3342]

Matt is the biggest approval seeker in the Mormon church

[@kookpatrol7490]

My Swiss Army knife (quiver killer) is my 6’3” 7S SuperFish 4
I have a bunch of boards but that thing can surf in any conditions it’s epic! I ride mine as a quad.