Paipo Love

At SJ we have a lot of love for alternative surfcraft. The Paipo was our first love, but what the hell is a Paipo?

Originating from the ancient Hawaiian alaia boards, the paipo has transformed over the years to become a versatile and cherished tool for riding waves.

Ancient Origins

The roots of the paipo can be traced back to ancient Hawaiian culture, where the practice of riding waves on wooden planks, known as alaia boards, was prevalent. These early boards were shorter and thinner than the longboards we commonly associate with surfing today. The alaia boards were typically made from the timber of koa or wiliwili trees and were ridden by elite surfers who possessed exceptional skills in wave riding.

With the spread of European contact in Hawaii, surfing saw a decline in popularity, and the alaia boards became less common. However, the spirit of wave riding persevered.

The resurgence of the paipo can be credited to the water enthusiasts of the 20th century, who sought alternative ways to ride waves. The emergence of bodyboarding in the 1970s played a significant role in the evolution of the paipo. Inspired by the alaia boards of old, bodyboarders crafted shorter, rectangular boards from foam, often referred to as "boogie boards." Belly Boards are English take on the Hawaiian Paipo.

The paipo's versatility has also caught the attention of surfers seeking an unconventional approach to wave riding. Whether it's carving down the face of a powerful wave or experiencing the sensation of gliding effortlessly across the water, the paipo offers a distinct experience

We have provided links to some of our favorite Paipo builders. Enjoy!

✌ Kiri Surf https://www.instagram.com/kiri.surf/

👍 Jon Wegner https://www.instagram.com/jonwegenersurfboards/

👉 Dick Pearce Belly Boards https://www.instagram.com/dickpearce/