Progressive Surfboards

Dave Johnson brings over 50 years of expertise to the fine art of surfboard making. He has shipped boards worldwide for both retail and wholesale customers.

He has been making surfboards since he was a teenager in 1967 in his parents’ garage. While attending college at UCSB in the early 70’s he started what is now known as Progressive Surfboards.

Dave has always said that even if he won the lottery he would still make surfboards. His passion for the craft is palpable. His knowledge of the science of surfboard endless. His craftsmanship is next level artistic.

In 1975 Dave opened his first official surfboard factory on the Santa Barbara Airport property. He has gone on to create over 32,000 hand-shaped surfboards under his Progressive Surfboards label. Boards that carry Dave Johnson’s signature have been skillfully crafted by him, not a machine.