Choosing a custom made surfboard

Quoted from http://www.surfboardshack.com/custom-made-surfboard.html:

Choosing a custom made surfboard

10 Things to Look For in Your Shaper

  1. Desire -This my sound like a no brainier, but a surfboard shaper with a true desire to please his customers will increase your chances of being stoked with your board and increase your level of fun.
  2. Flexibility – Some shapers can be set in their ways regarding Surfboard design. Look for a shaper who is open to experimentation, new designs and new ideas; He’ll keep you on the cutting edge of surf craft design.
  3. Knowledge – Shaping is a craft that requires not only talent but also a real understanding of key design elements. A good shaper can shape a board that works; a great shaper knows why the board works.
  4. Availability – When ordering a custom surfboard from any shaper, communication is paramount. If they’re not available to personally speak to you, chances are they’re too busy to give you the attention you deserve.
  5. Personality – It’s a good idea to maintain a long-term relationship with the shaper of your choice, so try to find someone who’s friendly and easy to get along with.
  6. Style – Surfboards and surfing for that matter are all about style. A shaper with good style both in and out of the water will infuse his shapes and designs with his own style and flair.
  7. Passion- In order to be great you have to love what you’re doing. Find a shaper who’s passionate about shaping surfboards.
  8. Skill- These days technology is our friend and with the advent of cad shaping programs and shaping machines, technology has opened the door to a whole new world of design possibilities but the best shapers still have the skill required to hand shape as well (a key element in the world’s best shapers).
  9. Value – Any good consumer knows you get what you pay for. A great shape can be altered by a poor glass job so look at the finished product; a shaper with attention to detail won’t stand for inferior craftsmanship and you get a great looking board that performs.
  10. Experience – You can’t buy knowledge or experience which comes though years of effort and hard work. Ask a shaper about his background and look for someone who’s been mentored by a master and understands all aspects of the surfboard production process.