Welcome to LMBK Surf House, where we cater to surfers of all levels with an excellent selection of surfboards designed to enhance your experience on Lombok’s incredible waves. In this blog we’ll look at a brief history and breakdown of the wide-range selection of surfboards that LMBK Surf House has to offer.
Surfboards have come a long way since the early days of surfing, evolving in shape, material, and technology to meet the demands of surfers around the world. From the traditional hardboard to the innovative designs of brands like Al Merrick, Firewire, and Hayden Shapes, each board has a unique story that reflects the progress of the sport and the surfers who ride them.
In this blog, LMBK will dive into the history and evolution of various surfboard types we offer at our stay location, such as the classic single fin, the beginner-friendly soft top, the versatile fish, and cutting-edge models from DHD and Al Merrick. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just getting your feet wet, understanding the background of these iconic boards will deepen your appreciation for the craft and the waves, and inform our riders about which board will best suit your needs when visiting.
1. Hardboard:
LMBK offers Hardboards in the following sizes – 9’0”, 8’5”, 8’0”, 7’8”, 7’6”, 7’5”, 7’4”, 7’2”, 7’0”, 6’11”, 6’10”, 6’8”, 6’4”, 6’6”, & 6’0”.
Hardboard surfboards are the foundation of modern surfing, dating back to the early 20th century when they were first made from solid wood, particularly redwood and balsa. These boards were incredibly heavy and cumbersome, often weighing over 100 pounds. Despite their weight, they allowed surfers to catch waves with ease, providing stability and momentum. The evolution of hardboards truly took off in the 1950s and 1960s when shapers began experimenting with fiberglass and foam cores, drastically reducing the weight while maintaining durability and performance. This shift marked the birth of the modern surfboard, making surfing more accessible and maneuverable.
As materials advanced, hardboards became lighter and more versatile, paving the way for different board shapes and styles. Today, hardboards are typically made from a foam core wrapped in fiberglass or epoxy resin, offering surfers a balance of speed, control, and durability. They remain a favorite among experienced surfers due to their ability to perform in a wide range of wave conditions. The evolution of hardboard surfboards showcases the innovative spirit of surf culture and its continuous push toward better performance and functionality.
Hardboards are ideal for experienced surfers seeking performance and precision. With their solid, durable construction, these boards offer exceptional speed, stability, and control, making them perfect for carving sharp turns and tackling challenging waves. These boards can be used on all levels of waves, but their performance shines on the steeper, more challenging breaks.
2. Single-Fin Surfoards:
LMBK offers single-fin boards in the following sizes – 9’2”, 9’1”,9’0”, 8’5”, & 6’0”.
Single-fin surfboards are iconic in the history of surfing, dating back to the early 20th century. The single-fin design was the standard for surfboards through the 1960s and 1970s, when surfers like Miki Dora and Gerry Lopez dominated the waves with fluid styles. The single fin, placed in the center of the tail, provides stability and smooth, drawn-out turns, making it ideal for long, flowing rides. These boards were often longer and heavier, crafted from wood or early forms of fiberglass, allowing surfers to elegantly glide across waves.
In the 1970s, the single-fin design was eclipsed by the rise of twin fins and thrusters, which offered more maneuverability and suited the more aggressive su on rfing styles that became popular. However, single fins remain a favorite for traditionalists and longboarders who appreciate their classic, stylish ride. They’re perfect for smooth, flowing lines and surfers seeking a nostalgic connection to the roots of the sport. Single-fin surfboards provide a classic surfing experience with smooth, flowing rides. The single-fin setup ensures stability and control, making these boards excellent for long, drawn-out turns and graceful maneuvers, perfect for surfers who appreciate a traditional style.
3. Minimal 80 Surfboards:
The 80 surfboard,, also known as an 8-foot funboard or mini-mal, emerged as a versatile option for surfers seeking a balance between performance and stability. Gaining popularity in the 1960s and 70s, this board combined the maneuverability of shorter boards with the easy paddling and wave-catching ability of longboards. Its rounded nose and wider shape made it ideal for beginners learning to surf, while still appealing to more experienced surfers looking for a fun, all-around board that performs well in various wave conditions.
Throughout the decades, the 80 surfboard became a staple in surf culture, known for its adaptability and forgiving nature. Its design allows surfers to smoothly transition between different wave sizes and styles, making it perfect for beginner to intermediate surfers who want to refine their skills without losing the stability of a longer board. Today, it remains a go-to choice for many surfers, appreciated for its blend of classic longboard ease and modern maneuverability.
The 8-foot “80” boards, also known as funboards or mini-mals, offer a balance of stability and maneuverability. Ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers, they perform well in a variety of wave conditions, making them a versatile choice.
4. Soft Top Surfboards:
LMBK offers soft top boards in a – 9’0”, 8’5”, & 6’0”.
Soft-top surfboards were introduced in the 1990s as a more accessible and beginner-friendly alternative to traditional hardboards. Originally designed to help newcomers learn to surf with less risk of injury, soft-tops feature a foam deck that provides extra buoyancy and cushioning. The forgiving material makes these boards ideal for first-time surfers, as they’re easier to balance on and less likely to cause harm in case of impact. This innovation opened the door for more people to safely enjoy surfing, particularly in surf schools and rental programs.
Over time, soft-top surfboards have evolved beyond beginner boards. With improvements in design and materials, some models now cater to more experienced surfers looking for a fun, relaxed ride in smaller waves. Brands like Wavestorm and Catch Surf have popularized soft-tops, making them a staple in lineups worldwide, beloved for their versatility and ease of use in various conditions. Today, they’re an essential part of surf culture, blending accessibility with performance for surfers of all levels.
Soft top boards are designed with beginners in mind. Featuring a soft, foam top layer, they offer extra buoyancy and safety, making them easier to handle and more forgiving. Ideal for learning the basics and building confidence in the water.
5. Swallow Surfboards
LMBK offers Swallow boards in a 7’2”, 7’0”, 6’10”, 6’8”, 6’4”, & 6’0”.
The swallowtail can be found on performance shortboards as well as larger mid lengths. It looks the most distinct from other fish tail shapes because of its shallow taper to two points. This shape is suitable for generating speed and providing grip in bigger waves.
The main difference between a swallow tail and a fish tail surfboard lies in their shape and how they affect the board’s performance. A swallow tail is typically found on shortboards and has a V-shaped cut at the back, which provides a balance of hold and maneuverability. The split tail allows water to release off the edges more easily, giving the board a looser, more responsive feel while still maintaining enough grip for control in steeper, faster waves. This design is particularly beneficial in generating quick turns and enhancing speed, especially in small to medium-sized surf.
On the other hand, a fish tail—wider and typically found on retro fish surfboards—offers more volume, making it great for maintaining speed in weaker, smaller waves. The larger surface area increases stability and glide but can sometimes feel less responsive in tight turns compared to a swallow tail.
The swallow tail is ideal for surfers who want a versatile board that can handle a variety of conditions with added agility and a lively, responsive feel. It strikes the perfect balance between hold and release, making it an excellent choice for those looking to make quick, sharp turns without sacrificing speed.
6. Fish Surfboards
LMBK offers Fish boards in a 6’8”, & 6’0”.
Fish surfboards emerged in the early 1970s, revolutionizing the surfing experience with their distinctive short, wide shape and twin-fin design. Originally created by surfboard shapers like Steve Lis, the fish was developed to perform well in smaller, less powerful waves, making it an ideal choice for surfers looking to maximize their fun on less-than-ideal days. Its unique silhouette allows for quick acceleration and exceptional maneuverability, which quickly gained popularity among surfers seeking a playful ride.
Throughout the years, the fish board has evolved, with modern shapers adding innovations such as refined rocker profiles and improved materials. This evolution has made fish boards not only suitable for smaller waves but also for a wider range of conditions. Today, fish surfboards are celebrated for their versatility and are embraced by surfers of all skill levels, blending nostalgia with contemporary design to offer a unique surfing experience that continues to thrive in the lineup.
While fish surfboards can be a great choice for surfers at different skill levels, they are particularly ideal for beginners and intermediates. Their stability, ease of use, and adaptability make them a popular option for those looking to enhance their surfing experience. Advanced surfers can also enjoy the fun and versatility a fish board offers in various wave conditions.
7. Native Surfboards
LMBK offers Native boards in a 6’3” & 39L.
Native surfboards, often crafted from local materials by skilled artisans, represent the rich cultural heritage and deep connection to the ocean found in many coastal regions. Historically, native peoples in places like Hawaii, Polynesia, and Indonesia shaped surfboards from wood, using traditional methods passed down through generations. These boards, known as *alaia* in Hawaii, were heavy, finless, and required exceptional skill to maneuver. Each board was custom-made, reflecting the rider’s stature and local wave conditions, embodying a symbiotic relationship between the surfer, the board, and the natural environment.
In modern times, native surfboards have evolved, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary surfboard design. While modern materials such as fiberglass and foam are now used, native boards continue to honor their origins, often incorporating local artistry and designs that pay homage to the coastal cultures they represent. Native boards symbolize not only a functional tool for riding waves but also a deep respect for the traditions and environments that birthed the sport of surfing.
Native boards are locally crafted, reflecting the unique surfing culture of Lombok. Designed to perform well in local wave conditions, these boards offer a tailored experience that embodies the spirit of Lombok surfing, often featuring custom designs and materials.
8. DHD Surfboards:
LMBK offers DHD boards in a 6’2” – 33L.
DHD Surfboards, founded by renowned Australian shaper Darren Handley, has been at the forefront of high-performance surfboard design since the early 1990s. Handley’s passion for surfing and craftsmanship, combined with close collaborations with world-class surfers like Mick Fanning and Stephanie Gilmore, helped DHD establish a reputation for precision, innovation, and speed. Handley’s boards have been instrumental in shaping the careers of many pro surfers, thanks to their responsiveness and performance in a variety of conditions.
What sets DHD apart is its commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. From the early days of shaping custom boards in a small Gold Coast factory to producing a wide range of high-performance models, DHD has remained a leader in the surf industry. Today, DHD boards are celebrated for their versatility and durability, making them a favorite among surfers seeking top-tier performance on the world’s most challenging waves.
9. Al Merrick Surfboards
LMBK offers Al Merick boards in a 6’0” – 33L.
Al Merrick surfboards, created by legendary shaper Al Merrick, have become synonymous with high-performance surfing since their inception in the late 1960s. Merrick founded **Channel Islands Surfboards** in Santa Barbara, California, with the vision of designing boards that could push the limits of competitive surfing. His innovative approach to shaping quickly gained attention, particularly when professional surfers like Tom Curren and Kelly Slater began riding his boards in the 1980s and 90s, bringing global recognition to the brand.
Over the decades, Al Merrick surfboards have continued to evolve with modern surf technology, combining craftsmanship with cutting-edge materials. The company has remained at the forefront of the surfboard industry, offering a wide range of models for both professionals and everyday surfers. Today, Channel Islands is known for its commitment to performance, innovation, and quality, making Al Merrick surfboards a staple in surf culture worldwide.
Al Merrick boards are known for their innovation and performance, catering to surfers looking for advanced designs. These boards offer superior craftsmanship and are favored by many professional surfers for their responsiveness and versatility.
10. Pyzel Surfboards:
LMBK offers Astro Pop 6’10” – 49L.
The Pyzel surfboard, crafted by renowned shaper Jon Pyzel, emerged in the mid-2010s and quickly gained popularity among both amateur and professional surfers. The Pyzel was designed with versatility in mind, allowing riders to perform well in a variety of conditions, from small beach breaks to powerful overhead waves. This board features a unique outline and rocker profile, enabling quick transitions, sharp turns, and excellent speed, making it a favorite among surfers looking for high-performance equipment.
Jon Pyzel’s commitment to innovation and quality craftsmanship has solidified the Ghost’s reputation as a go-to board for many elite surfers, including world champions. Its combination of a refined shape and advanced construction techniques has helped the Pyzel boards became a staple in surf shops worldwide. Today, it continues to be celebrated for its ability to enhance performance while catering to the evolving styles and preferences of the surfing community.
Pyzel boards are a favorite among many pro surfers for their speed, maneuverability, and control. At LMBK we recommend advanced surfers go for a Pyzel when riding the breaks of Lombok.
9. Hayden Shapes Surfboards
LMBK offers boards in a 5’10” – 31 L.
Hayden Shapes surfboards, founded by Australian shaper Hayden Cox in 1997, have become synonymous with innovation and performance in the surfing world. Initially, Hayden began crafting boards in his parents’ garage, driven by a passion for the sport and a desire to create high-quality equipment that catered to surfers’ needs. His unique designs, often featuring distinct contours and cutting-edge materials, quickly gained attention, leading to collaborations with professional surfers and a dedicated following.
Over the years, Hayden Shapes has continued to push the boundaries of surfboard design, incorporating advanced technologies like the Hyphen and EPS construction methods. The brand’s commitment to blending aesthetics with functionality has earned it a reputation for producing boards that excel in various conditions while maintaining a stylish appeal. Today, Hayden Shapes surfboards are not only a favorite among competitive surfers but also revered by enthusiasts seeking performance-driven, beautifully crafted boards that enhance their surfing experience.
Hayden Shaped boards are recommended to intermediate and advanced surfers due to their precision and responsiveness. Intermediate surfer will enjoy using this board for leveling up their skills as these boards provide the stability and responsiveness to refine techniques and tackle more challenging waves.
LMBK Surf House offers a diverse collection of surfboards designed to meet the needs of surfers of all levels. From the beginner-friendly soft-top to the high-performance DHD models, each board has a unique history and style that can enhance your surfing experience while visiting LMBK SurfHouse. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer seeking precision or a beginner looking for stability, our selection of surfboards ensures you’ll find the perfect board to suit your skills and the waves of Lombok. Visit us to explore this exceptional range of surfboards and elevate your surf sessions here in Lombok, Indonesia.
