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Established in 1969, Channel Islands Surfboards has become an iconic name in the surfing world, synonymous with performance, innovation, and quality. Over the last five decades, the brand has evolved from a local grass-roots operation into a global force, catering to the needs of the world's top surfers. Founded on the principles of hard work, originality, and a commitment to quality, Channel Islands has weathered the changes in the surf industry, emerging as a cutting-edge organisation shaping the future of surfboard design.
A Legacy of Innovation
Channel Islands Surfboards was founded by Al and Terry Merrick, and since its inception, it has been driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. Al Merrick, the designer and shaper behind the brand, has been a driving force in shaping the demand for design created by the world's greatest surfers. His passion for providing the most dedicated surfers with advanced, high-performance designs has been the guiding philosophy of Channel Islands.
“The driving force behind Channel Islands Surfboards is the demand on design created by the world’s greatest surfers, allowing for the highest performance surfing possible. To provide the most dedicated surfers with the most advanced, performance designs is my passion.”
- Al Merrick, Designer/Shaper
Rider-Driven Product
Channel Islands Surfboards is a privately held organisation with a focus on rider-driven products. The brand is committed to manufacturing the best possible equipment, pushing the boundaries of design and performance. The organisation's dedication to quality is reflected in a state-of-the-art facility located just blocks from Rincon Del Mar. The Channel Islands headquarters not only serves as a hub for developing and testing cutting-edge surfboards but also provides jobs in Santa Barbara, contributing to the local community.
Britt Merrick: Carrying on the Tradition
From the beginning, the Merrick family has played a central role in Channel Islands Surfboards. Britt Merrick, son of Al and Terry, practically grew up in the factory by the beach in Santa Barbara. His journey began from toddling around blanks to eventually shaping alongside his father in 1990. Today, Britt Merrick is the lead shaper and designer for Channel Islands, carrying on the family tradition of developing high-performance board designs in collaboration with the world’s greatest surfers.
Collaboration and Evolution
Channel Islands Surfboards has a rich history of collaborating with surfing legends, from Tom Curren to Dane Reynolds. The brand continues to evolve with the highest standard of surfing, always pushing the boundaries of design and performance. The commitment to excellence and the drive to meet the demands of the world's best surfers have solidified Channel Islands' position as a leader in the surfboard industry.
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As Channel Islands Surfboards celebrates its 50th anniversary, the brand stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation, dedication, and quality in the world of surfing. With Al Merrick's legacy of design excellence, Britt Merrick's continued innovation, and a commitment to rider-driven products, Channel Islands remains at the forefront of shaping the future of surfboard design for the next generation of surfers.