John Kies

 
My 1st inspiration for shaping started in 1965 after surfing a 9’6” Dale Bewoodward.  I cut the fin into a speed shape & realized I could redesign a board for maximum performance.  In 1969 I started shaping & glassing boards in my parents garage for my own personal use & found that there was a market for my boards.  I was selling a new board every week.  After moving to Oahu, I met shapers Rick Irons and Mike Diffenderfer.  Both offered valuable insights on my designs.  I returned to Encinitas in 1972 & started shaping for Hansen Surfboards.  In 1974 I became the shaper/factory manager for Koast Surfboards.  I continued to perfect my craft, but as a University senior, it was difficult keeping up with demand.  I hired shapers Rusty Presindorfer, Bill Shrosbee, & Mike Slingerland to help out.  After graduation & another stint at the North Shore, I moved back to Encinitas to open my own surfshop and to continue to shape.  To date I have built over 20,000 boards & still love the craft.