Dave Rasta x Gary McNeill quiver

• What is a torus channel and how does it work?
• What is Gary McNeill’s new flax bio resin construction?
• Why do Rasta’s boards last far longer than most other professional surfers?

Tune in to find out & get the run down on some of the boards Rasta’s been enjoying over the last year or so. Join us in beautiful northern NSW, where the water is warm and the waves are aplenty, this is where free surfing legend Dave Rastovich calls home.

Shop the Gary McNeill range on Boardcave to organize your next magic carpet.

We’ve also got the Rasta Keel Fins and Rasta Quad Fins from the clip in stock now!

Surfhouse Adventures California

Truth is, California boasts some of the world's best sunsets, burritos, surf spots and beers. Encinitas in So Cal has become a favorite for plenty of surfers and travelers alike looking for a creative and inspirational nook to call home…. or Surfhouse Encinitas.

Southern California has no shortage of activities, fun times and good vibes! At Surfhouse we guarantee you’ll experience all 3 of these no matter the length of your stay! Here’s what a typical day looks like at the Surfhouse.

1. Rise and shine with a coffee and breakfast from the many local cafes nearby. Or simply cross the street to grab delicious food and freshly roasted beans at Coffee Coffee.
2. Score clean, fun waves with plenty of surf spots for surfers of all levels.
3. Cruise into lunch with some of the best cuisines on offer (it’s hard to go past the classic Californian burrito).
4. Keen for an afternoon adventure? Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, brewery tours and hiking are all on offer, just to name a few.
5. Before heading out on the town for some local craft beer and a bite to eat, make sure you catch a world-class San Diego sunset and get ready to do it all again tomorrow!

We’ve elaborated on steps 1,2 and 3 above (because we know how much ya’ll love food, beverages and waves)!

Coffee spots: Coffee Coffee – Bump Coffee
Eats: Fish 101 – The Lani
Surf Spots Nearby: Seaside Reef – Cardiff Reef – Pipes – Swami’s – Moonlight – Sunset Cliffs – Oceanside – Blacks Beach – Trestles.

The San Diego International Airport (SAN) is only a 30-minute drive from Surfhouse making things super easy, or you can drive from LAX. Of course, airport transfers to Surfhouse are available to make your trip as seamless as possible.

Surf Camp packages are available with Surfhouse Adventures for those looking to stay a week or longer. You can find out more info on these packages here. No board? No worries! Surfhouse supplies all surf equipment for guests traveling without aboard! They also offer bikes, wetsuits and a range of surf craft for those smaller days.

For those seeking a short-term stay, no problem! They’ve got you covered with a large selection of comfy rooms to settle into and start living like a local.

Surfhouse guests will experience the best surf spots in San Diego and score the most fun waves in town. Remember, Surfhouse surf guides are experienced surfers and will share their favorite local surf spots.

Brixton’s Lee Wilson

Enjoy Lee Wilson’s latest piece by Alessio Saraifoger. Filmed in Wilson’s hometown of Umalas, Indonesia where waves are plentiful and most certainly not lacking in quality. The film photos and animations by Lee himself make for an interesting mix of winsomeness and mystery, two things Indonesia is very well known for, alongside some genuine shredding makes for an enjoyable 5 minutes of your life. Watch the full clip below.

Lee is surfing on a Chilli surfboards FADED model. Brainchild of Jamie Cheal, this board was designed to perform exactly how Lee demonstrates in the video. The design incorporates an outline that was developed for speed and drive and creates an optimum balance in decent-sized swells. The twin carbon strips reinforce the length of the board while still allowing optimum flex throughout a maneuver and keeping the board at the highest level of performance.

The Chilli BLACK VULTURE also makes a cameo in this clip, a board that Lee describes as “my favorite, super versatile and holds speed well”. The BLACK VULTURE has been designed for when one is looking for that extra paddle power, the wide point has been placed further forward than a regular shortboard shape makes this board into a wave-catching machine. The bump swallow tail combined with a single concave to vee out the tail provides you with forgiveness and stability underfoot. Perfect for smooth, clean point breaks and beach breaks.

The Grovel Guide

Time to dust off those short, stubby summer wave slayers, the attack of the fat and average summer swells is here! While most brands have their go-to grovelers, we decided to pull together 4 new board models you will want to get your hands on.

Short, wide, playful and forgiving – That’s the best way to describe the Chemistry 4 x 4. Inspired and modified of the Wide 6, the 4×4 has a straighter outline to create a natural speed feel while the subtle hip bumps in the tail increase stability and maneuverability. The moderate low rocker keeps the paddle power high on this little weapon while adding to the straight outline for an easy drive. The key differentiation between this and the other models featured is the incorporation of four channels. Doing so helps to boost the board down the line. Although it isn’t something you would clearly associate with small wave boards, it surprisingly helps with maintaining speed to attack the lip whilst keeping it forgiving through initiation and release of turns. We recommend riding this as a quad to truly see the 4 x 4 shine.

Not to be confused with the decadent fried doughy pastry, the Churro by Chilli is a little beast with a hidden talent. Designed for small waves under the guidance of Mitch Coleborn, it features a wide outline without being too wide, maintaining its performance orientation. Being a performance style board it’s surprising how much paddle power is gained from the gentle rocker outline. It has just the right amount of lift to help propel through fatter sections allowing it to fit into the curve of the wave for aggressively attacking the lip. One unique feature in this model is the thick tail block. Normally in performance style boards, the tails are foiled out and kept nice and thin for a response. However the Churros thick tail helps create the stability needed in summer conditions. If you’re chasing a summer board without having it look like a summer board, you’re in luck!

The DHD XRS is one summer vehicle that will be the envy of everyone in the water. The fuller nose is complemented by a wider middle and thick tail block to help get through the flat sections. The best part is low to flat rocker and deep single to double concaves. These are key to have when looking for a summer-style groveler. Fortunately, the XRS has both which will help you excel across soft fat sections while maintaining speed to execute those tight turns you dream of in the summer.

Last but not least, and a new release too. The JS Industries Psycho Nitro Hyfi makes one lively and fun board. The unique design to place the extra foam under your chest acts as the axis for the flat continuous rocker. What this means is that where your front foot lands, it is right on the gas pedal for easy acceleration when up and riding. The inclusion of fuller rails helps to avoid catching in less through turns, yet they are not too fat like a traditional groveler. What’s cool is how the tail is pulled in so it separates the thickness in the center. By doing this it allows you to go rail-to-rail freely in average waves that your everyday performance board won’t allow you’re to do. Whilst you can still get the Psycho Nitro in PU the inclusion of Hyfi allows for added flex and pop which is perfect for summer softness.

Volcom Team in Indo

The weird and wonderful minds of Volcom never disappoint with their latest video release. The lo-fi narrative of Noa Deane, Mitch Coleborn and Ozzie Wright has them in search of a remote and mystic Indo island. What was set to be a fun trip turns into a strange rumbling of events as torrential rain, the voodoo of a rainbow and the ever eccentric Ozzie set the tone for weird and wonderful time. A soundtrack you’ve come to expect from the stone, fun looking waves and a good crew give you a decent reason to throw this on during your lunch break.

The boards ridden throughout the clip are very unique and true to each surfer’s ability. Mitch on an all rounder, Noa riding a small conditions model and Ozzie.. Well Ozzie is Ozzie. And as Ozzie does, he rides weird boards that are designed for god knows what. However he makes them look fun and easy to ride!

For Mitch, the all rounder of the Chilli Spawn suits his powerful and aggressive style. If you fast-forward to 4:27 the fine example of both drive and response are on show. Starting out the gates with instant drive down the line, the board grips at high speed for plenty of hold on rail in that manly slash before sending it skyward.

Noa however is in a league of his own. Any section throughout the vid you’ll see his speed is generated literally from the tiniest of twitches. Riding a board designed for smaller conditions the LSD Double Dish’s ability for easy speed generation comes from the overall low rocker that gives out insane control and responsiveness.

Ozzie being Ozzie is having the time of his life on the boards he is riding. The Vampirate models of the Batmoboard and Dead Sled compliment Ozzie’s style big time. The hybrid design of the Batmoboard incorporates bevelled rails that produce natural speed and planing, perfect for small conditions. While the Dead Sled’s progressive performance design features a flatter rocker that allows for quick entry into waves that he rides in the final tube-fest section of the vid.

So get ready to ride the waves like the pros - Mitch, Noa and Ozzie! Your surfing adventure is about to kick off, and it all begins with having the right gear. Imagine having the power to control your board, to slice through waves effortlessly, and to dance on water like a true surfer. Well, that's where the magic of your surfboard's fins comes into play.

Twin fins, with their iconic two-fin setup, are all about speed and classic cool. They'll have you flying down the line, making you feel like you've hopped on a time machine to the golden era of surfing.

Thruster fins, the most popular choice, offer an incredible balance of speed and control. With three fins, you'll be able to perform maneuvers that were once just a dream. Carving, slashing, and bottom-turning will become second nature.

Now, let's talk quad fins - four fins for the ultimate stability and hold. These are your go-to for holding a line through hollow barrels, providing you with an unshakable grip on the wave face.

And if you're seeking versatility, look no further than five fins. These setups give you the best of both worlds. You can choose to ride as a thruster for those challenging waves or as a quad for maximum speed and glide on those smaller days.

But here's the kicker: surfing isn't just about speed and control; it's a whole experience. That's why you need more than just a board. To make the most out of your surfing journey, you'll want to gear up with the best beginner surfboard. These boards are designed to give you stability, balance, and just the right amount of float to make those first rides a breeze.

And hey, it's not all about the board – it's about the experience. That's why you need the essentials: snug wet suits, surfboard traction pads for unbeatable grip, surf leashes for that extra security, and surf ears to protect against those pounding waves.

These items aren't just accessories; they're your trusty companions on this thrilling aquatic journey. So, if you're looking to have a blast and create unforgettable memories out on the surf, check out our awesome surf accessories. They'll make sure you have a safe, super fun, and totally rad ride every time you hit those waves. Get ready to shred!

The One Board Quiver

The one board quiver. As unlikely as it seems, we are here to show you that a single surfboard can have the versatility to perform well in pretty much all conditions. The following is a description of attributes that these boards possess, as well as a range of boards available on Boardcave that have been designed to be your perfect travel or everyday companions.

New to the scene, The Faded model by Chilli is their latest all-around travel surfboard. Adapted from their popular Fader model the construction of this board features heavy-duty glassing and more foam in the center to increase paddle power. Tune in to the video below to see team rider Lee Wilson put it through its paces.

As you may know there’s 3 distinct features that most shapers consider whilst making an “all-rounder” or “traveler” surfboard. The first is extra foam allocated in particular to the center of the board. The added volume and thickness isn’t so much visible as it is noticeable when paddling into fatter sections.

The 2 last features vary on your decision when ordering a board and they are the tail shape and glassing. Generally speaking a rounded more pulled in tail is suited for hollow waves and is a popular choice for surfers traveling to destinations like Indo. In difference to the round tail a wider squash tail will have you making the most of your everyday home conditions. This type of tail shape is more popular for people who are going to experience a contrasting difference in swell conditions.

Lastly, it’s often a great idea to go with thicker glassing for a travel board especially if you only have room for one. The end purpose of stronger glassing is to make your board tougher and last longer against the stresses of traveling or the likely encounter of heavy waves.

Here is a list of more boards we think could potentially end your quest for the mystical one board quiver:

DHD Surfboards – Sweet Spot 2.0
Pyzel Surfboards – Pyzalien
Haydenshapes – Hypto Krypto
Gary McNeill Concepts – Entity
Emery Surfboards – The Shadow
Panda Surfboards – The Goose

There is loads of boards out there that could potentially fit this category and with consideration of your location and the types of waves you will experience the one board quiver is more than possible. For any extra info on these models or any other model on Boardcave, hit the Chat button on the bottom left corner of the page.

Water Over Sand – Asher Pacey and the DHD Mini Twin

Water over Sand, a pairing of words so simple yet so appealing to all surfers. If you’re not already, get familiar with the silky smooth surfing of Asher Pacey.

This film by Matt Kleiner successfully depicts an adventure we all desire, a remote stretch of coastline accompanied by good waves and the freedom that comes with being out of reception and off the grid. A perfect scenario and the seemingly natural habitat for the surfing style and grace of our long haired protagonist.

Asher Pacey is part of a handful of surfers who have revived the surfing worlds love for Twin fins. His signature model the DHD Mini Twin refined closely with shaper Darren Handley is his trusty companion in all his films. With displays of surfing like this it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular boards on Boardcave.

Crusty Classics ~ Doped Youth

Taking a surf mag to school is still the coolest thing in surf media. Growing up in the 90’s and early 2000’s there was a brilliant magazine by the name of “Waves”. Annually they would produce a feature film and the cult classic of Doped Youth is up there amongst the best of them.

Illustrating the cast as a bunch of rambunctious individuals featuring Chris Davidson, Luke Stedman, Ozzie, James Catto, Dingo, Slater, Kong, Parko and Mick. The storyline centers around Ozzie and the crew pitting their band, Doped Youth, up against Slaters bohemian Groovey Avalon outfit. Tension between the two bands in the story sparks some good rivalry, subtle dry humor and raw punchy surfing to tie it all together.

The super raw footage and the comical soundtrack evokes a style in surfing you don’t see anymore. At the time Dope Youth was released, Poor Specimen Productions were producing movies like Campaign, Loose Change, Hit and Run. All had a very similar feel to Doped Youth which is something that you don’t see in today’s movies.

Sit back and have a laugh at this classic surf movie and remind yourself – its just surfing, its just fun.

Boardcave x Pavati Wake Boats

When the ocean gives you lemons, you call your buddy with a boat and make your own waves. Which is exactly what we did on this sub-par day back in April, unleashing good times with Asher Wales and Pavati wake boats.

Surfing behind a boat is one of those fun occasions that every surfer should experience. On the right size wake you can surf forever or until your legs give out. Throwing fins, poping fun little airs on either side of the wake. Rest assured the whole day will have you laughing and stoked to be surfing during those flat periods.

With Winter fast coming to a close and Spring upon us shortly, the dreaded flat spells are on the way. It’s time to start hitting up your mate with boats and get yourself a fun hybrid style board or a Beater Board and keep the stoke alive.

Nick Vasicek all time Indo!

At his hometown on the Gold Coast Nick Vasicek is known for his backhand attack and tube riding skills, especially at waves like Snapper and Kirra when they’re on. That being said, he’s no stranger to a solid forehand tube either as seen above!

Boards of choice for Vassa in this clip are the Burnside and Magic Mix models which he rode at big Desert Point and in smaller playful Mentawais.

Music: “Eyeline” by Kut U Up
Footage courtesy @HappilyStoked
Edit by Bryce Frees

Gary McNeill’s Sustainable Surfboards

It makes sense that a Surfer and Environmental Activist like Dave Rastovich in a world of mass production would strive towards a more sustainable answer to meet his surfing needs. Gary McNeill and “Rasta” have worked closely for 10 years designing left of field high performance boards tailored to his skill and style. Now with the right resources the two have come up with seemingly the world’s most eco-friendly surfboard construction. The end result is a perfect balance between strength, flex and sustainability.

Tune in as Gary talks with Magic Seaweed with exclusive footage of Rasta surfing his Signature Twin Fin as one of the first flax board prototypes.

The Flax and Bio Resin construction is now available on all Gary McNeill Concepts across the Boardcave network.

Crusty Classics ~ Shelter

Ever watched a movie and been so inspired to venture out into the wild and do just that. Shelter captured just that. The Moonshine Conspiracy formed around 1998 and collectively produced 6 films in total. All movies had a very melancholy feel and in comparison to what was being released around the same time period (Taylor Steele’s Poor Specimen production house) the movies grasped the grass roots approach of surfing and took a different perspective. Everything from filming on 16mm film, which really suits surfing films due to the dull colours and soft appearance it achieves. To the cast in their movies which mostly consisted of Kelly, Rob, The Malloys, Taylor Knox and Shane Dorian as a base cast, adding complementing surfers to the roster of each movie produced.

Hatched out of the retro-sensible mind of Emmett Malloy, the Malloy Brothers and Jack Johnson, Shelter was produced by The Moonshine Conspiracy in 2001. The concept was a throwback and somewhat of a homage to Morning Of The Earth, and they definitely achieved it by basing the crew in a house in farmland Byron Bay. The approach to basically banish any form of competitive or commercial components of surfing from the house to soak up and throw back to what surfing is all about. Surfing, shaping boards, making music all out of a house that really sets a humbling melody tone throughout the whole movie. Whats even cooler is watching the boards they’re riding, how different they have changed to what we know and ride today. Even filming the movie has a different feel which really isolates the distinct separation of yesteryear and modern surfing films. Overall the movie instills some sort of drive to want to get a group of buddies together, find a beach shack and hold up in it for a few weeks, surfing, hanging out and just creating good times.

The one thing that these style of films did really well was cross over different disciplines of surfing from shortboards and logs to retro throw backs to show that as long as your a surfer it doesn’t matter. Having fun and doing it in style is the most important part of being a surfer. Some interesting stories pop up through the movie which opens your eyes to some things you may not be aware of. Remember this is now 16 years old and all the surfers featured in it include the likes of Rob, Taylor Knox, Joel Tudor, Mick Fanning, Dingo, Jack Johnson, The Malloys, Slater, Conan Hayes, Nathan Webster, Nat Young (OG Nat Young), Brad Gerlach, Donavon F., Shane Dorian. All of whom are still incredibly relevant in modern surfing today. Sit back and enjoy this classic, you’ll be humbled by how good it is.