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Ryan Lovelace & The Art of Surfboard Shaping

WRITTEN BY

Oct 13, 2025

A Bit About Ryan

At Slow Yourself Down, we’re all about celebrating people who make us feel like we should get off our phones and do something with our hands for a change. Enter Ryan Lovelace, an incredible surfboard shaper who’s not just good at what he does, he’s kind of a big deal in the surfing world (but still super chill about it).

His boards have earned a cult following for their unique designs and incredible performance. But here’s the thing: Ryan doesn’t let the hype get to him. He’s all about staying true to his craft, community, and the belief that hard work and dedication pay off.

Oh, and did we mention we filmed him doing his thing? Yep, two years ago, our creative partners, @LocalFilms, rolled up with a camera and caught Ryan in his natural habitat right here on the compound. Check out the video below. You’ll catch a glimpse of the artistry, heart, and soul that define Ryan’s work and life. He's a rare breed in our modern world, and his craftsmanship has inspired many of us here at Slow Yourself Down and beyond.

Shaping Beyond the Foam: Ryan’s Impact on the Community

What makes Ryan even cooler is that his shaping bay is right here on the Slow Yourself Down Compound in Hanalei. Most days, you’ll find him in his shaping bay, doing his thing—a magical mix of sanding, carving, and maybe some wizardry—to create boards that are equal parts functional and artistic. Watching him work is like watching a really chill superhero in action.

Ryan isn’t just a shaper; he’s a legend-in-the-making and a cornerstone of our community. Need advice on shaping? He’s your guy. Need someone to crack a joke or share a story over coffee? Yep, that’s Ryan too. He’s got that aloha spirit that makes Hanalei feel like home.

From Foam to Fame

In October 2024, Ryan snagged the title of Electric Acid Surfboard Test Winner from Stab Magazine. What’s that, you ask? Imagine pro-surfer Dave Rastovich, one of the world's most beloved surfers, testing boards made by the best shapers on the planet and then giving a giant thumbs up to the one that’s just a chef’s kiss. That’s Ryan’s board. It’s not just a surfboard; it’s a love letter to the waves, with a little side note that says, “Yeah, I’m awesome at this.”

Why Ryan’s Story Matters

Ryan’s journey is what we’re all about at Slow Yourself Down. He’s proof that slowing down and focusing on the process can lead to incredible results. Whether it’s shaping a surfboard, making a meal, or just trying to figure out life, doing it with intention makes all the difference.

We’re beyond proud to have Ryan as part of our community. Here’s to Ryan—shaper, innovator, and all-around epic human.

Insider information

Ryan's hand-shaped boards are in high demand, but we now have a board rack with a rotating selection available here at Slow Yourself Down, located at the new Florence Marine X Hanalei trailer right next to our coffee shop. If you're in the neighborhood, come check them out.