BIC Surfboards Shaper: Peter Pan

Year started shaping: 1968

What’s your philosophy? Function over fashion. I like to compare the Peter Pan designed BIC surfboard models to the original Volkswagen Beetles. They are designed to be an easy ride for a low price, so everyone can get around.

What led you to make boards? What I wanted to ride did not exist, so I had to design my own.

Who is your biggest influence? Gary Propper. He was the first East Coaster to make a board that works in our waves.

What do you consider your expertise? Designing surfboards that cater to even the most novice of surfers, no matter the conditions.

What is unique about the boards you make? They are designed specifically for the garbage conditions we often end up surfing in most of the time here on the East Coast. If I am going  surfing, I want something that I am going to catch waves on, no matter how crappy it is. The boards are designed so you are going out to get wet, no matter what.

How are you influenced by your location? All of my designs cater to our Rhode Island waves. Most of them are slow rollers that crumble off of perfect reefs. The beachbreak action is similar. The volume of the shapes is influenced by the use of heavy wetsuits most of the year, which adds substantial weight to the rider.
What trends in shaping are affecting your lineup this year? I don’t follow trends.

Are there any new technologies you’re integrating into your shapes? Yes, I’ve added a SUP handle to the new 9’4” Super Magnum so anyone can now carry a longboard with ease, no matter how light or small you are. This is the first production longboard we’ve designed with a handle, and as outrageous as it sounds, it does work. The SUPers borrow from the surfers. It is time we utilized some of the SUP technology.

What advice would you give to customers to help them get the best board possible? Buy a surfboard that you can feel confident to ride whatever conditions are out there. If you buy a surfboard that needs specific conditions to work in, you will find yourself sitting on the beach, rather than surfing.
What’s the biggest lesson learned in your career? Make shapes out of need, not out of greed.