Ian Chisholm began with a vision: to build surfboards for the open-minded surfer — surfers looking beyond convention and seeking boards with individuality, function and character.
From the beginning, the focus has remained firmly on quality handcrafted surfboards, alternative shapes and innovative designs. Every board is shaped with purpose, combining traditional craftsmanship with decades of experience and a deep understanding of surfing.
Today, with more than 16,000 shapes and over 12,000 laminations behind him, Ian continues to pursue the same passion that started it all. He is one of the few remaining board builders who can take a surfboard from the initial concept and shaping process through to the final finished product, ensuring that every stage receives the highest level of care and attention.
Throughout his career, Ian has worked alongside and learned from many respected surfers and shapers, continually refining his designs and developing his craft. He has also taught and mentored countless craftsmen throughout the years, passing on the knowledge, techniques and discipline required to build a truly premium surfboard. Many of those he has taught have gone on to establish respected surfboard brands and successful shaping businesses of their own, carrying forward the skills and traditions they learned along the way.
Today, Ian works closely with Dylan McLeod, Ben Considine, Billy Whitton, Angela King, CJ Nelson, Soleil Erico and Sive Jarrard, as well as his and Angela's children Charlie and Delilah.
Ian’s son, Charlie Chisholm, has been immersed in the surfboard industry since birth, growing up in and out of the factory and surrounded by the craft his entire life. After years of watching and learning, Charlie has now developed a strong interest and passion for surfboard building and is beginning to follow in his father’s footsteps.
For Ian, one of his proudest achievements is passing his knowledge, experience and passion for the craft on to Charlie. Teaching his son the skills and traditions developed over decades ensures that the art of handcrafted surfboard building can continue through the next generation.
Together, the whole family continues to develop a premium range of surfboards — from high-performance shortboards through to small-wave gliders — with function, quality and attention to detail remaining at the heart of every board.
“The reason I have stayed in the surfboard industry for all these years isn’t for the money. It’s because I genuinely enjoy meeting every person I make a custom board for and the connections we create along the way. I’ve built lifelong friendships through my customers, and I truly cherish those relationships. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”
“I’m proud to see my boards and designs now being enjoyed by surfers around the world. The connection between a surfer and their board is something special. Knowing that I’ve played a part in creating that connection and enjoyment is what keeps the passion alive for me. It’s something I intend to continue for many years to come.”
Built by Experience. Driven by Passion. Passed Down Through Generations.
