Donald Brink: The Surfboard Shaper Who Isn’t Afraid to Fail
The evolution of surfboard design relies on pushing boundaries,and Donald Brink is a shaper who wholeheartedly embraces that principle. He’s known for exploring unconventional shapes and designs, ofen venturing into territory that appears, at first glance, to be far removed from traditional surfboards.
A recent video showcases Brink’s diverse quiver, featuring everything from bodyboarding sleds and uniquely shaped boards – one resembling an “elf shoe” and another a “Q-tip” – to deeply asymmetrical designs. These creations are visually striking and challenge conventional perceptions of what a surfboard can be.
“[W]hat’s funny is that some boards look a certain way and (there’s) a perception of how they would ride,” Brink explains. “This board couldn’t be further removed from how it looks to how it rides. You do not remember what you’re surfing when you ride this board. To me, that’s notable. Ride the wave, not the board. At least, that’s the common theme I’m after.”
While some of his designs resemble art sculptures, Brink’s motivation is rooted in experimentation and learning. He emphasizes the importance of trying new things, feeling the results, and extracting lessons from both successes and failures. He does have preferences – notably, a dislike for wide surfboards – but remains open to revising his views. “There’s many mistakes,” he admits. “A lot of things don’t work.You learn from those, and perhaps it’s easy to learn from the things that don’t work.”
brink’s willingness to experiment even leads to surprising results. He recounts one instance with a pink asymmetrical board that defied expectations. “This board wasn’t supposed to work,” he said. “But I had to try it. I had to explore. Now I’ve got to keep going.”
Brink’s approach highlights the crucial role of innovation and a willingness to embrace failure in the ongoing evolution of surfboard design.
https://www.surfer.com/gear/donald-brink-alternative-surfboards/
Related: The Secret Behind Making a 4-Foot Surfboard Fly