I was in my happy place today thanks to you Gavin Upson mate. Finally got to surf the new weapon in NW Tassie at Green Point. Fun little lefts reeling off a sand bar with cross-shore winds. Had the best surf man so stoked. Fast loose and super responsive.  I love the transition on the rails from a super crisp edge near the fins and fading forward. New favourite board. Much appreciated Gav. Thanks again 👍 🤙

Shaka

This is my sixth board (J-FORCE) from Gav and definitely the best one yet in terms of performance. I’m bigger and heavier than the average surfer but Gav always manages to shape a board that has volume in all the right places and still allows me to fit in turns even with the extra volume. Gav shaped the board in two weeks as well which is amazing. Will never get a board from another shaper. Thanks Gav!

Chris G

My CHEATER is the first hybrid board I’ve had shaped for me, and to say I love it is an understatement! The extra volume and distribution of the volume in the right places makes this board amazing in all conditions. It’s my go-to on any point break and despite the extra volume has awesome manoeuvrability so I can use it on any beachside as well. Super stoked as usual with Gav’s expertise and shaping the perfect board for me.

Chris G

My 6’0” 1-DA ELITE in epoxy technology is the only board I’ve been riding since I got it about 6 months ago. Goes well in all waves from barrels to the beaches and points. I chose your business because it’s fast becoming the board of choice in Taranaki, with some of the top local surfers riding them so had to try one for myself and loved it after feeling it out. The boards I have (I have 3 1-DA’s in the quiver now) are going really well and I like how Gavin is available to discuss options and make adjustments to the boards to suit my surfing. I will definitely be sticking to the 1-DA’s going forward. I like that I know I can just grab that 1 board, head to the beach and it’s going to perform.

Rick W

I have surfed for 25yrs or so, during that time I would have had 50 or more boards, including at least 15 or so custom’s. I can truly say without a doubt the entire process at 1-DA is exceptional and 2^nd to none. From the unbelievable communication with making the original booking and throughout the process, through to Gav’s genuine love of making boards I cant recommend them high enough. I have had a fair few surfs on my new boards (ELITEs) now and they are inline with the entire 1-DA experience – that is exceptional! You have a customer for life with me!

Oliver

Perfect!! This board (MULTI) is exactly what I need 👏👏

Thanks again Gav for all the tips!!

👊🏿😎

Flavio

Yeah Gav! My MULTI, you’ve nailed it mate. Loving it. Lots of good comments from the boys saying it looks good under my feet. Thanks for suggesting this model when I wasn’t really thinking of it. Takes time sometimes to find a shape / design that suits but this rates as best feeling 1-DA I’ve had 🤗

Binty

I bought a 5’4′ MASS DESTRUCTION for my 12 year old a few months ago.  Since, his surfing has improved and its obvious this board is everything he will need moving forward. I’m already planning to just buy the next size up when he grows out of this one.

Great board made by friendly, knowledgable, skilled people. Thankyou Gav and Nikki.

Craig

Best KNEEBOARD I’ve ridden! Unique blend of bottom concaves allows speed and great manoeuvrability right in the pocket, where you want to be. Drives off the bottom hard with nice release out of the lip. Very controllable coming down in the white water in close-out sections. Surfed it as a quad which I feel suits the board, with stiff solid fibreglass fins. They balance the flex from the EPS construction and help the board maintain speed in and out of turns. Will be ordering a step up for Indo next year. Thanks heaps Gavin and Nikki, fantastic service!

Glenn Gaine

Absolutely love my BIG J – it gives me the turning ability and extra rocker I need while not sacrificing size and volume. Literally the perfect board for me. Gav is such a legend and luckily he’s my neighbour and even goes to the trouble of watching me surf so he can shape me a better board. Can’t say enough about how amazing 1-DA boards are.

Chris G

Excellent experience with the team at 1-DA.

I locked in a FREE one-on-one video consultation with Gavin. He listened to what I was trying to achieve with my surfing and together we came up with a plan for a custom CHEATER.

Being based in NZ, I was a little nervous with the whole ordering online and shipping back from Aus, but dealing with Nikki I can safely say its been the best customer experience to date with any surfboard order.  Nikki worked a plan to get it to me and my board arrived at my door in perfect condition.

I’ve been super happy with my board, from the model, the size and the construction (PU glassed in Epoxy). I 100% recommend 1-DA and I am already planning my next order.

Thank you.

Aaron McIlwee

My board (ELITE) is unbelievable. So nice to ride! Can’t wait to make another one!!!

Isben

After many years of ordering boards for my son, it was finally time for me to order one from Gav. Gav took the time with me to listen to what I was looking for and suggested the DUB T. What a great choice. To say this board has changed my outlook on surfing is an understatement. I can not get off this thing. The board is super fast and loose and gets through sections without even trying. It has definitely added to my surf fun. I cannot believe it took me this long to order myself a board from 1-DA.

Thanks again Gav and Nikki.

Brett Kidgell

The build quality is first class. I have managed to surf it (THE MULTI) quite a few times now and have had some great waves. Unfortunately I have lost a bit of weight and the board feels a little boaty. If I was to have any criticism it is that the rails feel a little chunky and the foam distribution in the tail could be foiled out a little more. Sorry but I prefer my previous 1DA which I can’t fault.

Ben Orchard

This is my second ELITE and I couldn’t believe it was better than the last! When the waves are good there’s no other board I’d want under my feet. Lots of speed and drive and the right amount of release when you want it. Performance short boards don’t get any better. Couldn’t recommend 1-DA enough, from the product itself to the staff and communication, everything is A+.

Kaleb Thomson 

With this being my third 1-DA ELITE I have owned, this is the best one by far. I have surfed it in all kinds of conditions from the Gold Coast to Canada and I can’t fault the board one bit. It drives hard, holds rail well and has awesome release off the top in just about any conditions. With Gav’s experience and knowledge it was awesome having him help decide what was going to be the best for my surfing style and he didn’t disappoint. Super stoked with the service, support and product. 🤙🤙

Craig Sharrock

From the moment I met Gav the board design process was super easy. Gav and I worked together looking at what I liked and didn’t like in my current board, my surfing and how I wanted to progress.  End result – the MASS DESTRUCTION.  The board feels really good under my feet especially when turning vertical off the bottom and can maintain speed throughout the turn which is something that my last board didn’t do.  The board lands super stable on end sections and is fun to ride in all conditions.  This board can hold it’s place in bigger waves and can drive down the line as well as hold speed through the fat sections in smaller waves.  The Mass Destruction has been my favourite board so far!  Thanks so much Gav!

Matt O’Grady

Gav and I caught up via messenger for a consultation, we talked for ages about the board and spots around Taranaki to the point where the sun had set and Gav didn’t even realise because he’s sooo into making boards! He was very thorough and figured out all the niggles, finally we settled on THE MULTI with a round tail which I really like. I also asked for a custom spray.

The board goes so well in all conditions from mushy slop to solid reef breaks. Its really helped my confidence and will get the same board again once I’ve worn this rocket out! Shot Gavin, love the board and the colour is bang on!

Shane Ives

Hey Nikki and Gav

Thanks for the awesome board!

I’ve been riding my 5’6 MASS DESTRUCTION for about a month now and can say it is definitely one of the best boards I’ve had under my feet.

The board is very responsive and holds its speed through every turn. Such a good all round board providing very high performance in big and small waves. It was super helpful having a consultation with Gav as he was very helpful in finding the perfect dimensions right for me.

Chasing barrels, smashing lips,

Ollie

Thanks Gavin for the amazing surfboard (MASS DESTRUCTION)!! It feels like I’m riding a “rocket”, so fast and on fire 🔥!!
I love it and can’t wait until my next one.

Zion Klages

I tested THE ELITE model for the first time in 2016 in Brazil, and I have been using it today as my favorite model.  Without a doubt it is the fastest board that gives me stability in curves that makes it easier for aerial manoeuvres.

Gil Ferreira

I just rode my new J-FORCE this morning……OMG!!! Magic Board!! WOW! Happy as, Thank you!

Chip

I’m so stoked to finally have my very first custom board (MASS DESTRUCTION). Thanks so much mum and dad 🤩 and Gav from @1_da_shapes for shaping the best board ever! It rides so smooth and fast and is so easy for me to turn. Had to race to rainbow first thing this morning to test it out before heading off to see the family 🤪 Got a good one with some sick turns and a nice snap! No better way to start Christmas Day 🎄 I hope everyone has a great day, get out and enjoy those perfect waves 🌊 👌  

Ollie McL

I love my CUB! First competition of the year with Snapper Board Riders and my Cub performed!!! Thank you Gav and Nikki 🤙🏻🤙🏻🤙🏻

Evie

I got this board (DUB T) for my wife’s birthday and she loves it!!

Thanks Gavin and 1-DA team for the great and friendly service.

The board is amazing and I even tried it myself!!!

👏👏

Flávio

I’m so happy with my custom Little WARRIOR, with Gavs wisdom we were able to make a few modifications to the stock model to suit my needs. It can be set up as a single fin or a tri fin and is super fun both ways. It is really cruisy on the smaller days when set up as a single fin. It flies when set up as a tri fin and easily gets through the flat and fat sections of waves. Totally recommend to anyone.

James

The DUB T with the twin fin setup is one of the nicest boards I have ridden. The turning was really nice and clean and does easy long bottom turns and fast and snappy small turns, it is really easy to go from slow cruisy turns to throwing out the back foot and flicking the board round really fast. The dimensions of the board were perfect for my weight and size and paddling out and onto waves was easy and duck diving was just as easy as well. Overall the board is good for almost any condition and you will guarantee a good surf on it and you shouldn’t struggle with stability, turning and paddling.

Tully Byrne

Thanks Gav for making me such a sick board. I’m using my rail more and now that I am used to it I’m starting to get more power in my turns.
Dad says that a good rail game is where it’s at but I’m still trying to land my first air. I love my new MASS DESTRUCTION.

Jaxxon

My DUB T model (customised with 5 fin set up) is a really fun board, super-fast and loose but also can hold on a good carv and has heaps of drive of the bottom.

Josh

I have tried this board (FISH) now in a range of conditions from 1 foot beachies to 2-3 foot hollow waves and can confirm you will have FUN on it! Surprisingly for a twin fin it holds in the tube really well and isn’t like your traditional twin where it’s hard to hold a line without sliding out. Highly recommend this to be an addition to any quiver! Thanks Gav!

Harry

Loving my BIG J. One of the best boards I’ve ever ridden. Gav was fantastic on the phone, genuinely interested and keen to get something to work for me. I’m 46 and not small at 6’6 and 110kg “on a good day”. Still not ready to give up the short board and if anything riding this has given me the motivation to shed some more kilos and no doubt surf even better on this board. Thank you guys for a top product and for making my surfing enjoyable again.

Stormn

My new MASS DESTRUCTION goes really flowy and it’s a really nice board. I like to do carves and snaps on it. My new board has really improved my surfing and my favourite place is Dbar.

Angus

Recently had a custom HYPO (6’0 x 20 1/2 x 2 9/16) model made by Gav. It goes SOOO well, absolutely love it. I have had a few boards made by Gav now and the process is so smooth and easy, cannot fault it. Works in the small stuff due to the volume and rounder outline, but wow its been holding up in some of the bigger swell I’ve ridden too.

This board is fast and easily makes sections.

If you only need one board in your quiver, this could definitely be it.

Looking forwarded to surfing it more.

Adam Rees

Love my new board (THE CUB). It’s great. This is my first custom board. I did my first snap and it’s easy to turn. It’s easier for me to learn on and get better. Thanks Gavin.

Georgia

I heard about Gavin on the “Surf Mastery” Podcast and then I did a bit of research of my own and there was a lot of positive feedback around his shaping. I was looking to get a couple of new boards so I got in touch with him via email. We arranged a time to chat on the phone so he could get a feel for where my surfing was at and what would be the best fit. My kids love the surf, especially the small summer days, so I wanted a board that would perform in small, knee to waist high, conditions. Gav tuned in on what I needed and he suggested a custom CHEATER. I am stoked with the result. Super easy to pick up small waves, rides through mushy sections, plenty of pop and speed from the 1-DA EXCLUSIVE EPOXY construction and at 5’7″ it’s perfect for small waves manoeuvres. This board has quickly become a favourite as it means I can have still fun in trying conditions without resorting to a longboard. The customer service from Gav and Nikki was next level, they are great to deal with and they went the extra mile on every aspect. Thanks 1-DA team!

Derek

Best board ever mate…. you’re a legend!

(custom ELITE in the 1-DA EXCLUSIVE EPOXY technology)

Mike

Having recently received my first 1-DA (MULTI), I was keen to see how it would go here and abroad. Well it hasn’t disappointed. The flex is obvious and you can literally feel it loading up on a wave as you push off the bottom (like an accelerator in a V8) then pivot… boom! It releases really nice off the top… spicy… almost a little too spicy on some sections which can make your average surfing look somewhat radical. Rail to rail transition is super smooth on point breaks and the board just feels really lively. I would recommend the MULTI to anyone who wants a good all-rounder that has some squirt (in the 1-DA EXCLUSIVE EPOXY technology). I would probably also get this model in a Standard construction as well, a little heavier for those windy Taranaki days and even go a couple inches longer… I rode this board in the Naki and on a recent Mentawais trip and it felt great under foot straight away. Great work Gav 😉 That board shape is dialled in just right.

Shaun Coffey

Just grabbed a 5′ 8″ HYPO from Gav and it is freakin’ sick! We made a few subtle changes to the volume distribution to suit my surfing and even added the option for a single fin box to it for those cruisy point runners. The board is super fast, forgiving on the takeoff for a Hybrid, good in the pocket and great to lay into full turns. I am stoked on the board and the chats with Gav on refining it for me. My Buzzinga can now have a day off!.

Sebby

I love this board!!
I’m 6’ 3” and 95kg and am relatively new to surfing.
The 6’ 4” CHEATER feels great under my feet and helps me get heaps more waves!! It is super fun to ride.
The whole process was super easy from initial contact with Nikki to my talks with Gav, all the way through to delivery to me in Sydney was first class.
My 8 year old son is now riding a 4’ 8” MASS DESTRUCTION which he loves too!! It is really easy for him to turn but still has enough foam in all the right places for him to paddle onto his own waves.

James

I decided to leave my 5’ 9” Shuriken in Brazil as it performed even better on flatter bottom waves and also not having to take a board when I head over there on holidays. After talking to Gav, I decided to order a MULTI model as a substitute, for that little extra performance on small waves around the Gold Coast and NNSW area. After a couple of surfs trying different fins, I found the right set up and I’m extremely happy with this board. I like how it fits in the pocket and goes vertical quick and easy, and at the same time the outline and overall design gives you that little extra speed when riding weaker waves. It’s not a hybrid, definitely a very forgiving high performance board for anything from dumping 1ft to overhead high waves.

Fabiano

Hey, my name is Jace Robinson, I am 12 and I surf for Palm Beach Boardriders.

I was surfing a 4’ 9” performance board with a volume of 15.8 Litres and I loved the board. I also have another board of 5’ 0” and 18 Litres and it felt really big and I hated surfing it.

A few months ago, I surfed one of my mate’s boards and it was shaped by 1-DA. The board was sick to ride so I said to my dad I wanted one next time.

So a month later, Dad arranged for me to meet with Gavin from 1-DA. Gav was very supportive and listened to what I wanted, but there was one size he had in mind that he thought would be amazing for how my surfing was. The size that he had in mind was a MASS DESTRUCTION 4’ 11”, with a volume of 17.02 Litres, which is bigger than I wanted and it was in between sizes of both my boards.

I am so glad he told me to get this size, as it is the best board I’ve ever ridden. It’s so epic to turn and it has improved my surfing so much.

Thank you Gavin and 1-DA for my board, and I will definitely be back for more.

Jace Robinson

Recently I got a 6′ 0″ MASS DESTRUCTION in the 1-DA EXCLUSIVE EPOXY and I can honestly say I have never ridden a better board in my life!! I would definitely recommend this board for any other surfer who is considering buying one as it is by far the fastest, lightest and most satisfying board I have ever ridden! I would highly recommend consulting with Gavin before ordering yourself a 1-DA as I can not describe how helpful he has been in helping me find the perfect boards to suit my style of surfing. Thank you so much Gavin and Nikki 😄

Tully Portus Keen

My son has had Gav shape his last 3 boards and loves the feel and performance so I thought I’d see what all the fuss was about!

After soaking up an hour of Gav and Nikki’s time talking about all things surfing and what I was after in a board, I walked away eager to try out the new weapon once completed.

I went with the DUB T twin fin. I was a bit suss on the lack of length (5′ 11”) as I’m 6 foot and a few kgs heavier than 30 years ago but Gav assured me it will be the goods.

100% The Goods! My first time out on the board and I was sold! It’s super easy to paddle , easy to pick off waves with more time to set up the bottom turns and so quick down the line. And for the size, it’s extremely stable yet loose when you want it to be.

All in all the most fun in any conditions for me, which is why I’m hooked.

Thanks Team 1-DA for the custom and the time you guys spend with Sam and myself!

One happy guy.

Yeeewww!

Tony Wilkinson

We enjoy working with Gav and Nikki, talking about designing the right board. Gav takes the time to understand our level to get the right board under our feet. We have been riding the MASS DESTRUCTION model boards, which are great high performance boards to push your surfing to the next level.

Aliza and Lochlan

THE CHEATER Custom 5’ 11″ x 20 3/4” x 2 5/8” Diamond Tail, FCSII 5 fin setup, 35.69L

Only a few weeks after meeting with Gav and ordering my first board, I ordered my second. I was so happy with how everything went that I was confident he would deliver the goods. 

After buying a performance J-FORCE, I decided to go with THE CHEATER model after Gav’s advice that it should be the go-to board in my quiver for smaller conditions at home. We set it up to be ridden as a quad or thruster and it works great both ways. This board is so fast and responsive, and like the name says it definitely gets you onto ways quicker and easier than most in the smaller mushy stuff, however it can also handle fast barrelling beach breaks like Dbah with ease. Even when the surf gets bigger, this little board can handle itself. The board also paddles like a dream. 

Definitely a board that should be in your quiver as the go-to small wave board that can handle itself in medium size stuff. 

Adam Rees

Thanks to Gav and the 1-DA team!

So impressed with how Gav, from watching footage of my surfing, could really tune into what was needed to take my surfing to the next level. Totally stoked with the result. Best board (J-FORCE) I have ever owned.

Juzza King

Just had my first surf on my BIG J and loved it. Awesome paddle power, better than my 40L boards. It’s plenty fast enough and a lot more forgiving on drops, and floats sections nice too. I had to change my surfing and surf more performance rather than surfing high volume flat rocker style (stopped being lazy). Shot Nikki and Gav. Look forward to meeting you in person. Thank you for hooking me up another board. You guys are awesome.

Rob McCarten

Since I got the MASS DESTRUCTION, my turns and speed down the line have really improved. Awesome board which I just love surfing with. Thanks Gav and Nikki. I will bring dad when I order my next board. 👍😂

Jay Kidgell

After having Gav shape my last two CUBs, I now ride my new performance MASS DESTRUCTION which Gav shaped for me. 

Dad and I went to Gav again (1-DA) for my 3rd custom as Gav spends the time with me to sus out what will suit my ability.

The MASS DESTRUCTION is easy to manoeuvre and I am constantly completing more critical turns. I also find it fast which helps my get down the line!!

Thanks for the great board Gav and Nikki.

Sam Wilkinson

I’ve had many boards around the 6’6 range over the years, as it’s a real go-to board for G-Land where I’ve spent a lot of time, and numerous other solid Indo spots. Not to mention Hawaii on a medium sized day. I’ve never clicked perfectly with them. Usually they have some positives as well as drawbacks … i.e. go great in the barrel but struggle to do performance turns. It wasn’t until I got my first SEMI GUN off 1-DA that it finally happened. Gav made me a 6′ 6” and the thing is like an extension of my shortboards. The flow of the board, paddle power, barrel riding, manoeuvrability and general feel under my feet is amazing. The SEMI GUN will not fail to disappoint!

1-DA Team Rider J-ROD

The new board design (MASS DESTRUCTION) is amazing, goes well through the critical sections and it helps me to be on rail more, as well as pushing me to use the rail properly. It’s extremely responsive & pushing me to the next level.

Jarrah

Thanks 1-DA for my 2nd CUB.

So stoked with the board! I have more confidence in my turns and it’s so easy to pick off waves!

My trip to Sumatra was sick and the fresh board was unreal in all conditions!

Can’t wait to step up to the MASS DESTRUCTION. Yeeeeewww.

Sam Wilkinson

Best board I have ridden (DUB T in the 1-DA EXCLUSIVE EPOXY tech) … and I have had a few. The 1-DA EXCLUSIVE EPOXY is awesome. Using Al Merrick FCS 2 twin fins with stabiliser. Board is loose but in control … riding a 5′ 9” with 5′ 10” dims. Sign of a good board is when it glides in early … which this does. Great board.

 Darren

Hi Gav, Aliza had a great surf tonight on her new board (THE CUB). She really connected with it. It looks really nice under her feet. She said it is the best board she has ever had. She came in and gave it a big kiss and said her surfing felt so good.

 Aliza’s Dad

I purchased a custom BIG J 6′ 6″ x 19 5/8″ x 2 1/2″ 33.4L from 1-DA four or five months ago. I went from a 6′ 7″ more of a rounded pin to a bit squarer. I wanted something that was a little looser and would hold into the pocket. And something with a heavier glass job to last, as there’s a lot of rocks where I mostly surf. The waves I mostly surf are around head high but have had a day up to 5ft or so. Enjoying the board. Holds in well. I’ve had a couple I’ve taken off on that I didn’t think I’d make the section on but did and have managed to pull into a few pockets for a quick cover up. I’m finding it easier to bring it all the way round when cutting back or coming off the top, able to whip it back around out of the pocket where before I was coming out of the turn with more a faded bottom turn or off the bottom of the wash. Mainly been surfing lefts but had a few fast rights and the board kept up and have managed to vert on a couple (but ate it on one!). I can also get a lot of speed when driving off the bottom of a wave. All and all, very happy and would not hesitate to recommend a board from 1-DA!

Mitch

My go-to high performance board (THE ELITE), the thing flies. Responsive when I put the foot down, sturdy when I take it off and light when I want to take to the air. This board gives me the confidence that I need to take me to the next chapter of my surfing. Every day gets better. Thanks Gav x

Claire Bevilacqua

The boys are loving the boards (THE CUB models). They have said that they are awesome, that they are smooth and fast and easy to turn. They are enjoying them a lot.

Charlie & Owen’s Mum

It’s just easy to surf. [Talking about his CUB.]

Scotty

My MASS DESTRUCTION feels amazing under my feet. The MASS DESTRUCTION is my favourite board because it’s faster and more responsive. It has improved my surfing heaps. I feel so much more confident with my surfing since I’ve been on this board and have had better results in competitions. Thanks Gav and Nikki for another great board.

Chez

I have surfed the board (MISTRESS) about 6 times now, in shit surf, good Snapper and good conditions at the Alley. Love the board. It has really good release through the tail. Still feeling it out, but very impressed. Thank you for being so in tune with your passion.

John

The board (THE CUB) is going so good. I love it! Thanks heaps!

Lachlan Edwards

My latest ELITE and SHURIKEN are great, works for me!!

Ray

The board (J-FORCE) works fantastic. Extremely fast off the bottom. It seems to slingshot to the lip. Something I never experienced. It took a while to get use to actually. Very loose off the top as well, yet still easy to control. Extremely fast as well. Really handles well in overhead surf. Loving it!

Mark Becker

Hey there Nikki and Gavin,

I took the board (THE ELITE) out with a broken wrist because I am impatient, ha ha. Right from when I hopped on it, it felt so smooth moving through the water.

It wasn’t until yesterday that I really got to test out what the board was capable of.

I can happily say that until yesterday I HAVE NEVER HAD SUCH A GOOD SURF! THIS BOARD RIPS!

I LOVE THIS BOARD SO MUCH IT TWISTS AND TURNS EVERY WAY I WANT IT TO AND IT FEELS SO SEAMLESS CARVING THROUGH.

ALL I CAN SAY IS THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR CREATING SUCH A PIECE OF ART.

I AM BEYOND STOKED!!!!

THANKS SO MUCH!!!!

🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂

Jordy

As people say to me “I cannot believe some of the manoeuvres you are doing at the age of 12”. All I can say is the board (MASS DESTRUCTION) feels that amazing and helps me push my surfing next level. Good times ahead.

1-DA Grom, Matt Boyle

Loving my custom J-FORCE! I’ve had it for a few months now and my surfing is finally progressing to that next level. I expected the board to be fast but I didn’t expect it to also be so stable. I have so much more control than I’ve ever had before while keeping heaps of speed! Gavin was also really easy to communicate with and I could tell he really cared about making a board that was perfect for me. Thanks Gav.

Jude Stevens

I love my two boards (THE ELITE and the SEMI GUN). They are so fast and responsive. When I got to my feet, it was like going on a magic carpet ride, gave me confidence to take on any wave that came my way. THE ELITE 6’ 5” went off, loved tube riding and power turns in the pocket. The SEMI GUN 6’ 10” was legendary. Needed to have bigger waves, maybe 10-15 foot. Thanks Gavin, sick boards man. Wahoo.

Brent “Hench” Hutchieson

THE CUB is perfect. It is helping me to perform well in my competitions.

Bailey

I love THE CUB. It’s the fastest board I’ve ever owned. I just got back from surfing Sumbawa and THE CUB held its line and speed in 2 foot sketchy Lakey to 6 foot groomed Periscopes and 7 foot chunky Nunga’s. THE CUB is what I want to paddle out on any time and every time.

Oscar

My MASS DESTRUCTION is really light and fast under my feet and gives me good drive off the bottom of the wave. It feels faster than my other boards.

Scotty

I was on THE CUB and it was a really good board. If you feel that your surfing is ready to go to the next level then jump onto the MASS DESTRUCTION. It is more of a high-performance board and I love it. Thanks Gav.

Aliza

I love my 1-DA board (THE CUB). I’ve won a few Boardrider’s comps and I went in the Barney Miller Classic with it. It is very fast and it turns good. My favourite trick is a grab rail cut back. Everyone comments on the light blue colour. I love my board and I can’t wait to get another one to add to my collection!

Zeb Fairhurst, South West Rocks

The board (THE CUB) is going so good. I love it to bits.

Ava

I’ve been riding the 5′ 8” DUB T & loving it! This twin fin is going so very good. I am hoping to use it in the upcoming Masters next week.

Jamie “Chip” Andrews, owner of BeachStreet Surf Shop

It’s been a few weeks and still to this day, I haven’t had a bad surf on my SHURIKEN. It’s the most amazing board I’ve ever had the pleasure of riding. I haven’t had a magic board like this in all my years of surfing and that’s the truth. Thanks so much once again! You’re making it incredibly hard to get behind the lens these days.

Dane Staples

Thanks heaps for my round tail CUB, it goes sooo good. It’s really easy to paddle and I’m catching so many more waves and able the get on the wave super early. I’m loving the speed through my turns and the speed out of my turns, it’s crazy.

It feels nice and stable under my feet and really responsive with heaps of control, I can put it where I want to. I’ve been riding it in 1ft onshore beach breaks though to 5ft offshore points, so much fun.

The glassing is really strong and with my custom spray, looks epic too.

Gavin and Nikki are really easy to talk to and are so helpful. I’m super stoked to be riding a 1-DA Shapes surfboard and would highly recommend 1-DA to anyone.

Natasha Gouldsbury, 12yo grommet, Levin, New Zealand

This is the second lot of custom CUB boards that Gav and Nikki have hooked me up with and the first time I’ve tried the 1-DA EXCLUSIVE EPOXY. I’m loving how light they are and the speed generated down the line. They can help bring out the best in your ability and look sick too. I’ll be back for more once I’ve out grown these sticks. Thanks heaps.

Jay Robbo

My 5′ 3″ custom ELITE board goes really well. Super fast and responsive. Been getting some sick waves lately, from up north at Gnaraloo and around Perth. It goes sick. Can’t fault it so far and I’ve ridden it in a variety of waves thus far from 4 foot plus reef breaks down to a 1 foot beach break grovel. I like the low boxy rail and continuous gradual rocker with its kind of “low key” tail rocker giving it a loose but driving feeling off the bottom with responsiveness off the top. I ride THE ELITE with small future fins model JJF which I think is a great combo. I would be happy to recommend this board to anyone chasing a new board.

Jack

From start to finish, dealing with Nikki and the team from 1-DA has been a great experience. They were professional and thorough when it came to creating the perfect custom board for my son. He absolutely loves his CUB 5’ 4” and I would highly recommend anyone wanting a custom made board to go see these guys. Thanks heaps again for making Phoenix one happy kid!

Drew

The board (THE CUB) has been going great for me. It was a little bit ‘boaty’ for me at first but once I got used to changing my stance, it was sweet. The glass job has been pretty strong so far and isn’t too heavy which is good being a 4x6x4.

Jarrad Collier

After riding THE CUB for a couple months, I wasn’t sure how THE ELITE would feel. THE CUB already felt like ‘an elite’ surfboard! My first surf on my custom ELITE (which arrived on Xmas Day), my friend (a very good surfer himself) was filming and he commented my turns were looking noticeably bigger, and that it looked like I was not surfing the board to its capacity, while on my CUB I had been. This probably sums it up best:  It feels like the only limitations when surfing my ELITE is myself! It feels like I’m on a board any of the world’s best would appreciate. No disrespect to THE CUB, I still go back to THE CUB when the waves are soft/weak/fat as it seems to generate a bit more speed in flat sections. I actually won my national title on THE CUB in long soft reform waves.

J-Rod

THE ELITE is everything I wanted. Responsive in my turns. It’s a primo all-rounder shape! Well worth talking to a shaper who knows his dimensions. Cheers 1-DA crew. Stoked to be riding your board!

Carlos

Thanks Gavin. I am totally happy with my MULTI. I put my faith in 1- DA Shapes to make me a board based on very little information, just my preferred volume, the waves I usually surf and the boards I am currently ridding. After chatting to Gav, I felt really confident that he understood what I wanted. Having not specified any dimensions, I couldn’t wait to see what he had shaped for me. Gav, you’ve hit the nail on the head with this one. Cheers and thanks for a great board.

Ben Orchard

I got a custom ELITE to take to Latitude Zero in the Telo Islands. I rode it for 2 weeks for solid 6-8hrs a day over there. The board went absolutely insane. It performed in all conditions. It’s my go to board. Stoked! If you’re always looking for that board to take you to the next level, this is that board. Thanks Gav.

Pottsy

I was riding one of these (THE CUB) temporarily until my custom 1-DA boards arrived. This is actually Zhana’s new board (THE CUB) Gav made for her, but I had to ‘claim’ ownership off her because I liked it so much when I tried it at the Demo Day in Taranaki! I have been surfing this and only this in small, medium and larger waves. It’s only a 5’ 8” but it holds in well in everything. I’ve often found it hard to get a board that feels good laying into forehand bottom turns, but this one achieves that nicely.

Basically it just feels like a super high performance all-rounder, and I have got another CUB being made along with 2 x ELITE models. Can’t wait!

J-Rod

THE CHEATER is the funnest board I’ve ever owned, especially with the couple of extra litres in the 5’ 10”. Thanks again. I’m sure I’ll see you soon.

Ben

I love my CUB surfboards and have been riding both of them competitively and for sheer pleasure since October 2014.

They are great in all conditions, small onshore waves, point breaks, big surf days and everything in between.

They are great competitive boards. Just recently, I won an International Competition, The

Melanesian Indigenous Cup, and the Open Women’s and Under 18 Women’s divisions in New Caledonia where I represented Aotearoa, New Zealand. I also have had lots of other finals and placings on my CUB boards.

The boards are super easy to turn, excellent for snaps, cut backs, re-entry’s and floaters. They are easy to stall into a barrel and you can generate incredible speed too.

It is extremely light weight compared to most other boards. It floats above whilst paddling, making it much easier to catch waves and paddle out.

CUB surfboards hold well in gnarly waves and are very easy to control. THE CUB design is my favourite design of surfboard.

My boards have awesome graphics and a stunning appearance that are often complimented.

I am looking forward to continued competition success on my CUB boards and just having an awesome time enjoying surfing on these great boards in any conditions.

Zhana Hutchieson

Thanks for the great board (THE ELITE) Gav. I had a chance to get out this morning for the first few turns and didn’t realise how much my old board was holding me back. The 1-DA ELITE goes great. I can’t wait to get in some Snapper juice to really open it up. Thanks again.

Glenn Robinson

Honestly, it’s the best mal (MISTRESS) I have ever ridden!!!

Aaron Banks, Coopers Surf

I am absolutely loving THE MULTI. It gets me motivated to surf when the waves are terrible. It’s so good having the 5 fin option and I have preferred the quad option when it’s really small. Gav is so good at listening to feedback and translating it into his boards.

Jack Perry, MODOM

Hey Gav. So sick. Loving THE MULTI. It goes really great in big surf and in little surf. It goes super fast, doesn’t spin out, and I have lots of control over it. Overall, sooooo sick. Thanks Gav.

Sonny Rapira-Martin

I love my SHURIKEN. Heaps of speed, great on rail. Epic board!

Chris Wilkes

Thanks Gav for an awesome surfboard (THE ELITE). It is exactly what I was after and the glassed in fins give a feel of response I was looking for. It has great speed out of turns and fast off the top. Anyone looking for a new board, I highly recommend giving Gav and the team a call. Thanks again mate.

Shaka

Thanks Gavin. I’m stoked with the shape and the high quality finish. For the sake of kneeism and kneelos everywhere, I’ve just surfed my new 1-DA KNEEBOARD at Stent tonight in some pretty decent waves. It would have to be one of the most responsive boards I’ve ever ridden. Speed, power and flow. Cheers Gavin.

Steve

Finally got my BIG J wet. Lucky me … the ship was docked in Palau and it was 7-8 foot at West Passage on my day off … life is great. Thanks for an amazing board. It worked great on my first day out, even though I never surfed a reef break before.

Kevin O Keeffe

Speed to burn on THE ELITE model guys. So forgiving through turns but still plenty of drive going in and out of turns. Solid underfoot, catching waves (too easy), likes to fly if you’re down with that. Total all round sick stick. Loving my 1-DA ELITE. Yewwww.

JZ

THE MULTI totally lives up to the name. Definitely a multi-purpose board! Got a 6’ 0″ a couple of days ago and finally rode it today. The surf was really small, about 1-1.5+ ft at the most. I was thinking that I should probably use my other small wave specialist in my quiver but I really wanted to take her out for a spin being a new board and all. So stoked and surprised. I caught quite a few waves with this magic stick! I look forward to the surf picking up. After today, I can only picture how she’ll handle the more powerful waves. The board has definitely got a really nice balance between agility and stability. One word:  perfect. Thanks Gavo!

Ben

I took my J-FORCE out today. It worked like a charm! It’s so light under my feet which made it really easy to throw around. I got thrown into a nice little barrel out at Palmy. I did a late drop and closed my eyes thinking I was going to bail but dropped through the roof opened my eyes and was flying down inside the wave. It held really well. My mate was frothing at the build of the board, he loved it. And while I had the board sitting on the grass, a bloke walking past stopped by the board and had a good admire. Couldn’t be more happier mate!

Josh

Love my new 5′ 0″ CHEATER. It is so much fun Gavin. I go surfing every day now. I even started doing turns during my first session. I really love surfing now.

Sea-Jay (7 years old)

THE CUB has really helped me improve my surfing. It’s fast, easy to do turns, I feel like I have so much control of the board , it does what I want it to do, it is responsive. Love it!

Josh Boyle

The J-FORCE is really responsive and fast, carves good. It goes mental.

Damon

Hey Gav. Thanks for the boards mate. I rode THE MULTI a few times already down south and you nailed it!

Harry

I just got my new J-FORCE 1-DA board and love it! It’s been awhile since I’ve had a board feel so good under my feet from the first wave. It looks like there may be magic in this one! Thanks so much Gav.

Mike

Heat win at Kirra Teams Challenge today in perfect pumping Snapper. Stoked on the new J-FORCE craft I picked up just 2 days ago. It’s sick. It’s so fast, feels electrifying. I combo’d the heat score. It’s been a while since that happened. Need to get myself another 1-DA board in my quiver!

Polsy

I rode THE MULTI in a bowly head high left in Fiji and it went insane!!! I was blown away by how fast it went and it felt unreal on rail through carves as a quad. Super super stoked!!

My ELITE went insane at south Dbah next to the sand spit. I’m really happy with how the board felt. The surf was fun head high with some punch. The board felt really fast and drivey. The only thing about THE ELITE that felt different was the stability. It’s much quicker and more responsive than my boards, which maybe something I’ll want to adjust myself to. I’d love to order more boards.

A.B.

I just rode my new 5′ 10” J-FORCE for the first time. As soon as the first ride began, I knew the board had a lot to offer. After 3 waves, I decided it is the best board I have ever owned. I look forward to surfing it again. Thanks heaps Gavin Upson for the time and energy spent to refine the design. Unreal!

Chris Wilkes