TYLER WARREN’S “SOAP BAR TRIO”, MINI-SIMMONS INSPIRED SURFBOARDS
In the early 1950s, a surfer named Bob Simmons began shaping multi-finned “planing hulls” that were an evolutionary link to surfing’s Polynesian roots, but utilized the principles of modern hydrodynamic theory. Employed by Douglas Aircraft in 1952, as were Ray and Charles Eames, Simmons’ distinctive planing hulls embodied the same aesthetics of aerodynamic form that were a central element in mid-century modern design.
ABOVE: HYDRODYNAMICA “MINI-SIMMONS”; MANDALA CUSTOM SHAPES “SUPERCHUNK” AT PILGRIM SURF + SUPPLY; BELOW: HYDRODYNAMICA “SIMSTER”; MANDALA CUSTOM SHAPES
There has been a resurgence in these short planing boards, as a result of research for a film project about Bob Simmons called “Hydrodynamica”. The Hydrodynamica Test Pilot Series is a collection of surfboards inspired by Bob Simmons and are contemporary interpretations of his designs. They are finished in white matte only to accentuate the aerodynamic form of the planing hull. When compared to conventional surfboards the planing hull is wider, shorter and flatter. The fins are set as far out on the rail as possible to maximize planing surface and give the board directional stability and drive. These short boards are one of the hottest trends in surfing at present and ideal for surfers of all levels.
