Introducing Rozbern Surfboards

Secret Beaches. Boogie Slabs. Salty dogs. Fresh shucked oysters. The Ocean Mist. Over 400 miles of coastline. We finally understand why states have mottos. Rhode Island’s title as the “Ocean State” holds true and its surf community represents the fullest manifestation of that idea. With rich shoreline comes rich opportunity for exploration. Consistent time and experience in the water has provided the community with a deep and ever evolving understanding the region’s seascape. Generations of sailors, surfers, and seafarers passing down their knowledge of sharky waters, local breaks, and what shapes are riding best when. All legendary skill sets of their own.

We arrived in Newport to link up with team rider Holland and head to Matunuck Surf Shop for a board trade event Rozbern was hosting there. Boards lined the exterior of the shop and people met with old friends and new as they meandered their way through the line-up, contemplating what the ideal selection would be. An age old battle we can all relate to in some part of life. A kettle grill just off to the side was maxed out with hot dogs and BYOB beverages were being cracked as the sun set on a windy sea-side day. Amongst the people, the boards, and the hot dogs stood shaper and surfer John Oppito. One who has collected many of those well earned skills we mentioned earlier.

The next morning we met with John at the shaping/glassing facility to pick up the beautiful batch of boards destine for Flagship. At an undisclosed location somewhere in the heart of Rhode Island, an unassuming door slid open to reveal a smiling Oppito. A slew of surfboards occupied the space from floor to ceiling, ready to be sent across New England like Paul Revere’s shouts about the Brits. John is the mastermind behind Rozbern. Shaping since 2005, he grew up in New Jersey’s heavy beach breaks and since resides along the lengthy point breaks of Rhode Island. His mission is to provide high quality boards that also align with an individuals riding style and riding ability on the wave. From re-imagined fish styles to classically flawless longboards, John’s vision and ability is truly one of a kind. All Rozbern Surfboards are shaped by John Oppito and glassed at Space Rock glassing in Rhode Island. We recently touched back with John to ask a few questions about boards, waves, and what makes him tick. Here is what he had to say.

What made you start shaping boards?

I've always enjoyed making things and working with my hands, so as I started to get more serious about surfing and I wanted new boards, it was a pretty natural progression. I ordered materials, gathered all the tools I could find, and took over my parents backyard shed. I didn’t have anyone to show me how to shape or glass, so my first board was pretty rough, but I got some waves on it and it was such a rush to ride a board I made.

Where does the name Rozbern come from?