Kim Purington
How did you start shaping and did you learn from anyone while getting started?
I started shaping in my garage when I was in high school. I couldn't afford a new board from a shop, so I had to make my own. I was fortunate to learn from Eric Arakawa who I shaped with for eight years. Ed Angulo, Peter Trombly, and my uncle- Dave Purington, all helped me get started.
How long have you been shaping and who are some surfers you have made boards for?
I've been shaping professionally since 1983 and have made boards for Michael and Derek Ho, Ronnie Burns, Glen Winton, and Love Hodel. Describe your shaping style and what types of boards do you like to make? My shaping style is constantly evolving. You never stop learning, and as surfing progresses, so must your shaping style. I'm a perfectionist, so I take my time on each board to make sure all elements and design are in place. I'm known for performance shortboards, fish, step-up boards, and longboards.