Austin Barrette: Founder and Master Shaper at Barrette Surfboards
The SaltyMF GOAT Podcast with Austin Barrette Founder & Master Shaper at Barrette Surfboards
Join Brad Banyas and Austin Barrette at The McBastards Studio in FOCO USA for a tutorial on creating the ideal surfboard. Austin recounts his experiences surfing the southern California coast as a child and crafting boards with his peers, leading to a love for board making. He stresses the significance of surf culture and discusses the impact of the mass-produced surfboards, and about the lost meaning of a true surfing experience.
Austin also talks about his recent relocation to Georgia and adapting to surfing on lakes while designing boards for wake surfing enthusiasts as opposed to ocean surfers.
About Barrette Surfboards:
Years of thorough experimentation, meticulous attention to small details, and unparalleled personalization guarantee that you receive a classic and practical piece. Barrette Surfboards extends an offer to you at no charge to join Austin in physically molding, glassing, and smoothing your board.
Through this hands-on experience, our intention is for you to form a deep connection with your board, enabling you to advance more quickly and ultimately increasing the enjoyment of surfing.
www.barrettesurfboards.com
barrettesurfboards
Episode Summary
Austin Barrette, founder of Barrette Surfboards, discussed his transition from surfing in California to making wake surfboards in Georgia. He highlighted the cultural and design differences between ocean and lake surfing, emphasizing the customization and personalization of his boards. Barrett shared his approach to shaping, which involves hands-on craftsmanship and customer collaboration. He also mentioned his involvement with Wake for Warriors, creating adaptive boards for injured veterans. The conversation concluded with plans for future collaborations, including potential sponsorships and custom board designs, and a commitment to supporting local businesses and the surfing community.
Episode Summary
Meeting Introduction and Initial Greetings
- Brad welcomes everyone to the podcast.
- Brad introduces the podcast and the guest, Austin Barrette, a local surfboard crafter.
- Brad mentions meeting Austin through the Southern Surf Slam event.
- Austin shares his background, moving from Southern California to Georgia, and the transition from ocean surfing to lake wake surfing.
Transition from Ocean Surfing to Lake Wake Surfing
- Brad and Austin discuss the cultural and design differences between ocean surfing and lake wake surfing.
- Austin describes the initial challenges of adjusting to wake surfing, including the smaller wave size and the high-value boats used.
- Austin mentions relying on pro riders to test and provide feedback on his boards.
- Brad expresses interest in commissioning a board from Austin for display and use.
Challenges and Adjustments in Wake Surfing
- Austin talks about the learning curve and the adjustments needed to excel in wake surfing.
- Brad shares his own experience with surfing in Panama and the challenges faced as a larger person.
- Austin and Brad discuss the unique experience of surfing and the sense of accomplishment it brings.
- Austin emphasizes the addictive nature of surfing and the high it provides.
Surf ATL and Future Opportunities
- Brad mentions the Surf ATL initiative and the potential for local board makers.
- Austin shares his experience with Surf ATL and the opportunity to shape boards for the new pool scene.
- Austin discusses the benefits of having a consistent wave in a pool compared to the unpredictability of ocean waves.
- Brad and Austin discuss the idea of opening a shop and collaborating with Surf ATL.
Custom Board Shaping and Personal Touch
- Austin explains his approach to shaping boards, emphasizing the personal touch and customization for each customer.
- Austin mentions the importance of understanding the customer's surfing style and needs.
- Austin shares his philosophy of making boards that last and are built to perform well.
- Brad and Austin discuss the importance of passion and authenticity in the shaping process.
Expanding the Business and Community Building
- Austin talks about the challenges of moving across the country and building a new community for his business.
- Austin emphasizes the importance of local relationships and understanding the needs of the new community.
- Austin discusses the potential for expanding his business and the importance of supporting local manufacturers.
- Brad and Austin talk about the benefits of building a community around surfing and supporting small businesses.
Supporting Adaptive Surfing and Giving Back
- Austin shares his involvement with Wake for Warriors and building adaptive boards for injured veterans.
- Austin discusses the importance of giving back and supporting the adaptive surfing community.
- Austin mentions the challenges of balancing his business with his commitment to adaptive surfing.
- Brad and Austin discuss the potential for collaborating with organizations like Wake for Warriors and Brothers Keepers Foundation.
Future Collaborations and Promotions
- Brad expresses interest in collaborating with Austin and promoting Barrett Surfboards.
- Austin talks about the potential for creating custom boards with the Salty EMF branding.
- Brad and Austin discuss the idea of hosting a contest for team writers to try out Barrett Surfboards.
- Austin emphasizes the importance of building trust and providing high-quality boards to his customers.
Final Thoughts and Contact Information
- Austin shares his contact information and encourages people to reach out for custom board orders.
- Brad and Austin discuss the importance of supporting local businesses and building a community around surfing.
- Austin mentions the upcoming launch of his line of surfboard blanks for the East Coast.
- Brad and Austin express their excitement about future collaborations and promoting Barrett Surfboards.
*Everyone has a story to tell, it may not be perfect nor ideal, but it is Real. The Attitude Wears Well!
www.saltymf.com