Shaper Profile with Josh Martin

Today's Shaper Profile takes us to Dana Point, California, where surfboard shaper and all-around craftsmen Josh Martin resides. Here are a few questions we asked Josh about his craft and his father, the late great Terry Martin.

RHYTHM & BLUES: Josh, what year did you and your father start building/ shaping surfboards?

JOSH: I started in 1986 and my dad started in 1952.

RHYTHM & BLUES: What board builders and craftsmen influenced your board building today?

JOSH: My dad and my Uncle Mickey Muñoz. Stussy too, but he didn’t know it at the time. My dad was having me “ghost ghost” shape them as he was the ghost for Shawn in the late ’80s. Semi-public knowledge now so no worries... I think!

RHYTHM & BLUES: Favorite surfboard to shape?

JOSH: Any young kids scaled-down nose rider/log. 8’6 X 22 X 2 3/8 ish.

RHYTHM & BLUES: Favorite surfboard to ride?

JOSH: 11' Glider

RHYTHM & BLUES: Favorite tool?

JOSH: Any old tuned Stanley 60 1/2 block plane.

RHYTHM & BLUES: Craziest/weirdest shaping request?

JOSH: Traditionally handcrafted Balsa build for Cory Colapinto. It became crazy and weird when he requested a fin box and leash plug in it. I love an irreverent surfer! 

RHYTHM & BLUES: Favorite food?

JOSH: Flan

RHYTHM & BLUES: Favorite band?

JOSH: My dad loved Louis Armstrong. Did you know he only had one lung? Me? A toss-up between Midnight Oil and U2. Probably the Oils get the edge. Sorry Edge.

RHYTHM & BLUES: Preferred foam to work with, EPS/Poly?

JOSH: My dad definitely preferred polyurethane in classic density. Me, whatever the surfer wants is my favorite. EPS is junk to shape but presents a challenge and allows for a finer foiled board. I like a challenge.

I want to thank Josh for his time in allowing us to throw him a few questions. His creative talent far exceeds just building surfboards. Follow him on Instagram @martinshapes and to inquire about custom surfboards visit Martinshapes.com. Shop all available Martin Shapes products HERE