42 Donald Brink - Surfer & Shaper

Do you really know what kind of surfboard you need—or are you just guessing like everyone else?

If you've ever struggled to catch waves, blamed your board, or felt stuck in your surfing progression, this episode with master craftsman Donald Brink will rewire how you think about board design, technique, and the soul of surfing itself.

• Learn why your feet, not your volume, might be the key to unlocking performance.

• Discover how asymmetrical design can help you surf with more control, flow, and intention.

• Hear how one surfer transformed his entire style by focusing on one movement: the bottom turn.

Hit play now to gain the insights that will permanently change how you look at your board, the wave, and your own technique.

Key Points

• The importance of technique in surfing and how it can be improved through practice and learning from others.

• The significance of understanding the design and function of a surfboard to enhance surfing performance.

• The role of a surfboard shaper is not just selling surfboards but creating tools for people to enjoy the water and helping them achieve their vision through design.

• The concept that there are no bad surfboards, only the wrong board for the wrong conditions, and the importance of understanding hydrodynamic principles in board design.

• The discussion on style in surfing, defined as the transition between maneuvers, and the importance of fluidity and flow in linking maneuvers together.

• The idea that performance shortboards for the general public may not be as relevant as they once were, and the importance of showing aspirational goals through better ability and equipment.

• The concept that the best surfboard is the one you don't notice, and the importance of giving a board enough time to judge its performance.

• The discussion on the white point in surfboard design and its significance in relation to the board's length and the surfer's stance.

• The importance of technique in surfing, particularly in small wave situations, and the value of learning to read the bottom of the wave to improve performance.

• The future of surfing lies in technique rather than design, and the importance of being willing to waste waves and focus on mastering one aspect at a time.

For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.