DHD Surfboards Shaper: Darren Handley

What’s your shaping philosophy? Shape the best boards on the planet for the best surfers. Wind, tide and swell wait for no one.

What led you to become a shaper? I wanted to shape and create my own boards and live the shaper lifestyle.

Who is your biggest shaping influence? Don’t have one.

What do others consider your expertise? Nude runs.

What do you consider your expertise? My expertise is my passion for being a builder. If you are passionate it will lead to success.

What are your most popular models? The Mick Fanning series: Ducks Nuts, Eager Beaver, Sweet Spot, and Double Shot. Also the Project 15, Switchblade, and DX1 are going great.

What makes your boards different? It is a combination of knowledge, experience, history, team, and design development that have allowed me to create the best surfboards.

How does your location influence your shaping? The best waves create the best boards. Superbank, super boards.

What advice would you give to customers to help them get the best boards possible? Ride boards with a little more volume. Take a look at our models online before coming into a shop to feel them.