Interview from Drift with Robin Johnson by Nick Thomson

Shaper to Shaper: Nick Thomson & Robin Johnston

10/28

Oahu island boy Robin Johnston, of Johnston Surfboards, started his shaping career in 2000. Since then, he has shaped over 2,000 surfboards and a slew of top surfers riding for his brand. He produces a quality product and devotes an incredible amount of energy to his boards.

Johnston is a competitive surfer, and is clearly passionate about the sport: there wasn’t a day that I spoke to him throughout this interview when he wasn’t in the water. His surfing prowess has definitely informed his shapes, and is the predominant reason why his brand is where it`s at today. It’s hard to drive up to Oahu’s North Shore without seeing a Johnston Surfboards bumper sticker, either on a surfer’s car or the Haleiwa road signs.

Here`s what Robin had to say about his career as a surfboard shaper:

Name:
Robin Johnston

Location:
Sunset Beach, Oahu

Favorite Surf Break?
Pipeline

What color and size is your shaping room?
Dark blue, about 9” x 15”

Do you feel it’s important that a shaper can surf his/her own boards, or is it enough to have team riders?
I feel that surfing well assists a shaper with design progression.

Who was your inspiration to become a shaper?
Wade Tokoro

If you could give some advice to aspiring shapers, what would it be?
Be patient, have fun and don’t quit your day job.

What do you love about being a surfboard shaper?
I love the creativity and freedom.

What type of planner are you currently running?
Customized Hitachi

Do you have a favorite blank material? Such as PU or EPS?
What shape do you most enjoy building?
PU for most boards. EPS in small and powerless waves. I especially love shaping performance short boards and retro boards, but pride myself on the variety of boards I offer.

Any thoughts on surfboard imports from overseas?
Imported boards (i.e. China boards) are inevitable in a cost competitive market.

What do you feel you offer in your boards and why should surfers pick you as their shaper?
I offer ever evolving board designs that are tested by all types of surfers in all types of conditions worldwide.

In your eyes, what made you the successful, well-known shaper today?
I feel that my standout quality is that I am a versatile shaper with a competitive surfing background.

Some shapers are offering the use of more environmentally friendly materials, what is your current stance on this in regards to performance and being eco-friendly?
I love the idea of eco-friendly material and am excited about what`s to come. I hope to offer environmentally friendly boards someday soon!