Stewart Surfboards: Four Decades of Innovation and Artistry

For over 40 years, Bill Stewart has been at the forefront of surfboard design and innovation, crafting custom boards that blend performance and artistry. As the inventor of the 2+1 fin configuration, the Hydro Hull beveled rail, and co-inventor of the Future Fins System box, Stewart has played a pivotal role in shaping modern surfing. His brand, Stewart Surfboards, stands as a testament to his dedication to quality, creativity, and pushing the boundaries of surfboard technology.

Early Beginnings: From Florida to California

Born in Bowling Green, Kentucky, in 1951, Bill Stewart grew up in Hollywood, Florida, where he began surfing in 1963. His passion for the sport quickly merged with his artistic talents, and by 1967, Stewart was shaping surfboards, honing his craft with a planer and experimenting with design.

In 1971, Stewart moved to Southern California in search of better waves and greater opportunities. He worked for prominent surfboard brands like Hobie, Rick James, and South Shore, gaining invaluable experience and refining his shaping techniques. Seven years later, in 1978, Stewart Surfboards opened its doors in Laguna Beach, solidifying Bill Stewart’s place in the surf industry.

Artistic Innovations

Stewart’s artistic prowess set him apart early in his career. As the second person to airbrush directly onto surfboards, his vibrant designs became iconic. In 1980, Surfer Magazine recognized his talent, naming him Best Airbrusher, a nod to his ability to elevate surfboards into functional works of art.

Game-Changing Designs

Bill Stewart’s contributions to surfboard innovation have left an indelible mark on the industry.

  • Hydro Hull (1984): Stewart introduced the Hydro Hull, a revolutionary double concave design used on both longboards and shortboards, enhancing speed, stability, and maneuverability.
  • 2+1 Fin Configuration (1984): Invented the same year, this tri-fin setup has become the standard for performance longboards, offering a perfect balance between control and speed.
  • S-Winger (2008): A five-fin double-wing pin shortboard, the S-Winger quickly became a favorite among surfers. Its success led to the development of the LSW (Longboard S-Winger), one of Stewart’s most anticipated designs.
  • Future Fins System: As a co-inventor of the Future Fins System box, Stewart contributed to a modular fin system that transformed how surfers customize their boards.

Stewart Surfboards in the Spotlight

The early 1990s saw Stewart Surfboards rise to mainstream prominence. In 1994, Office Depot featured Bill Stewart in a national TV ad campaign, showcasing him surfing at San Onofre. The commercial aired during major events like 60 Minutes, the NFL playoffs, and even after the Super Bowl, introducing Stewart Surfboards to a national audience.

A Legacy of Excellence

Today, Stewart Surfboards continues to be a leader in custom surfboard craftsmanship. Based in San Clemente, California, the brand serves surfers from around the globe, offering hand-shaped boards tailored to individual performance needs and preferences. Stewart’s dedication to combining cutting-edge design with stunning aesthetics ensures his boards remain highly sought after by both surfers and collectors.

Always Innovating

Bill Stewart’s passion for surfing and creativity shows no signs of slowing down. From shaping his first board in 1967 to developing cutting-edge designs like the S-Winger, Stewart continues to push the limits of surfboard performance. His workshop is a hub of innovation, and surfers can always look forward to what’s next from one of the industry’s most influential figures.