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Surf Supplies
TAKE YOUR STYLE FROM THE SHELVES TO THE SEA WITH THE HELP OF THESE LOCAL SHOPS .
By ASHLEY RYAN
TOUTED AS AN ART COLONY , LAGUNA BEACH IS JUST AS heavily known for its history of water sports and ocean culture . Long-standing events like the Brooks Street Surfing Classic and The Vic skimboarding championship have not only solidified the town ’ s position as a prime location for active residents , but also helped to promote and enhance these pastimes .
Hobie Surf Shop
But where would modern surfers be without the many stellar surf shops that line the streets of Laguna ? From boards and wetsuits to all of the accessories required for a successful surf sesh , hitting the waves wouldn ’ t be possible without these stores that supply amateur and professional athletes .
“ In some sense , the modern surf shop was born in Laguna Beach ,” says Kris Carlow , brand manager for Hobie Surf Shops . “ Yes , [ surf legend ] Hobie Alter eventually moved to Dana Point to open his shop in 1954 , but the concept was born on the beach in Laguna . Alter made some 200 boards — unnumbered — before his departure from his father ’ s garage . Furthermore , Dick Metz , the probable founder of modern surf retail , was born in Laguna . All of these cohorts spent their summers on Laguna beaches . They would discuss their prospective careers , but they all knew that they didn ’ t want to work east of Highway 1 , wear [ ing ] hard-sole shoes or a necktie . In my opinion , that ’ s the original ethos of the surf shop , and that began in Laguna Beach .”
That historical component is key to the success these shops enjoy in current times , with Laguna ’ s coves and south Orange County beaches beckoning surfers both to the sea and the shops . All of this just further enriches the local surf culture .
“ In every beach town , surf shops have always been the cultural center for local flavor . Laguna ’ s pristine rocky coastline and rich surfing history create an incubator for unique experiences in and around the ocean ,” says George Arzente , founder of Catch Surf . “ Living near the ocean is a privilege enjoyed by only a select few , and surf shops offer a window into that lifestyle .”
Here , discover what Laguna ’ s surf stores have to offer shoppers from near and far .
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