Matt Grote: The Opal Hull

Matt Grote is a California surfer/shaper making surfboards in Hermosa Beach. Mentored by Marc Andreini, he is influenced by the Transition Era that included Ted Spencer, Michael Peterson, and George Greenough. This film follows the making of his Opal model, a 6'1 Stubbie Hull featuring a full tail with single fin and tiny side bite fins. His boards can be found at www.grotesurfboards.com.

[@robertcain3426]

I think the wide tails promote a continuation of moderate speed, as a positive. The negative side is that they inhibit acceleration and top speed, in the same way as mals (long boards) and lifting foils.

[@TBlanktim]

I got the shakes watching you put that fresh foam on the storage racks. The supports should have foam wrapped all the way past the ends. It may not have happened yet, but I guarantee one will get gouged placing them in a slot sooner or later. Ask me how I know. "An ounce of prevention"...

[@glennsak]

Rad