Harbour Surfboards: The Legacy of Innovation in Surfboard Design
Since its humble beginnings in 1959, Harbour Surfboards has grown into an iconic brand synonymous with craftsmanship, heritage, and innovation. Founded by Rich Harbour in his parents’ garage, the company holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest surfboard manufacturing shop still operating at its original location. With over six decades of history and tens of thousands of surfboards crafted, Harbour Surfboards is a cornerstone of the surfing world, attracting enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Beginning: A Teenage Vision
In 1959, a setback sparked Rich Harbour’s journey into surfboard shaping. After his beloved longboard was stolen, the 16-year-old high school junior decided to craft his own board. Armed with a foam blank, a hand saw, and skills honed as his high school’s star woodshop student, Harbour created his first surfboard. Though the early result wasn’t perfect, the process ignited a passion. By his second and third boards, Harbour was impressing the local surf community with his craftsmanship.
The 1960s: Harbour Surfboards Takes Off
The early 1960s marked a turning point for Rich Harbour. Locals began requesting custom surfboards, and by 1962, Harbour Surfboards officially opened its doors at 5th Street and Marina Drive in Seal Beach, California. Rapid growth prompted a move to its current location at 329 Main Street, which remains the brand’s home to this day.
Rich assembled a team of talented craftsmen, including Dean Eliott, Mike Marshall, and later surf legends like Dale Velzy and Dick Brewer. Innovations such as a profile jig to pre-foil blanks set Harbour Surfboards apart, enabling precise shaping and ensuring consistently high-quality boards.
Championships and Innovations: A Brand on the Rise
Harbour Surfboards gained international acclaim in 1964 when team rider Rich Chew won the USSA Championship on a Harbour Banana Model. This historic win marked the first championship of its kind and solidified Harbour’s reputation as a leading surfboard brand. That same year, Harbour’s team made a splash at the World Championships in Peru, with Steve Bigler earning second place in the hot dog contest.
As surfing transitioned into the shortboard revolution of the late 1960s, Harbour adapted by hiring Robert August to design and shape cutting-edge boards, including the innovative Spherical Revolver. This era saw Harbour Surfboards embrace change while staying true to its roots in craftsmanship and quality.
Enduring Legacy and Global Recognition
Harbour Surfboards has become more than just a surfboard manufacturer—it’s a symbol of surfing’s golden age and a beacon of quality in an ever-changing industry. Collectors around the globe seek out vintage Harbour boards as pieces of surfing history. The shop at 329 Main Street in Seal Beach is not only a place of business but also a living museum celebrating decades of surf culture.
A Timeless Influence
Rich Harbour’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship has made Harbour Surfboards an enduring force in the surfing world. From its beginnings in a suburban garage to shaping the boards that won championships and redefined the sport, Harbour Surfboards continues to inspire surfers and shapers worldwide. With every new board crafted, the legacy of Rich Harbour and his iconic brand lives on, riding the waves of history.
