Walden

Steve Walden – The Father of the Modern Longboard

Recognized throughout the surfing world as "The Father of the Modern Longboard", Steve Walden has made a profound impact on the evolution of the modern longboard. An accomplished professional surfer, Walden grew up amidst the surfing revolution on Southern California beaches, shaping custom boards for over 40 years.

Revolutionizing Surfboard Design

Walden began shaping surfboards in 1968, at a time when longboards were considered relics of the past. At just 20, he joined Greek Surfboards in Huntington Beach before launching his own surfboard manufacturing facility and retail surf shop a year later. He became one of the largest surfboard producers in the U.S., distributing over 10,000 boards. During this period, Walden introduced his first major innovation, the Wingtail, which dramatically advanced surfboard design.

A Hawaii Game Changer

In 1972, Walden moved to Hawaii, where he shaped for prestigious brands like Lightning Bolt and Hawaiian Island Creations. In 1973, he crafted his first non-conventional longboard, combining shortboard speed and maneuverability with longboard stability. His redesign reduced traditional longboard weight by 60%, revolutionizing performance. Walden’s pioneering work in longboard design, including innovations like the Shovel Nose and Rocket Tail/Wing Fin, solidified his reputation as a cutting-edge shaper in Hawaii.

Birth of the Magic Model

Back in Southern California in 1981, Walden pushed the boundaries of longboard design even further. By 1983, he had refined critical elements like rails and hull design, leading to the creation of his iconic Magic Model—a longboard that became the industry standard for modern longboarding.

Longboard Perfection

Over the next 15 years, Walden continued to perfect his designs, incorporating unorthodox materials like aluminum for strength and chrome mylar for speed. His latest innovation, the Stealth/Geo, is the world’s first surfboard with a completely angular design, showcasing his dedication to pushing the limits of performance and design.

Surfing Excellence

Today, Walden operates a surfboard manufacturing facility in Ventura, California, and remains active in professional competitive surfing. He holds the record for the longest nose ride in competition history, thanks to his expertly designed nose-riding longboards. His latest industry-first—a longboard crafted specifically for female surfers—demonstrates his continued commitment to advancing the sport.