Surfboards

The Sting was invented by Ben Aipa in 1974. It was test piloted by Buttons Kaluhiokalani, Mark Liddell, Larry Bertlemann and Dane Kealohaand and it rapidly went through a series of refinements. Mark Richards caught wind of the design and came to Hawaii to seek out Ben. 

For the Dark Arts collab, AIPA chose to focus on the version of the Sting Made for Mark Richards in 1976. This shape is modeled after Mark Richard's 6’8”x21-1/2”x3-1/4”. MR’s Flame Sting was made with a step bottom which removes ¼” from the bottom contour from behind the Sting (wings) to the tail. Ben wanted to create air cavitation and subsequent lift which meant more speed. This would be the first known attempt to facilitate lift like our modern concaves now do for us. AIPA added a slight amount of curve to the tail and moved the midpoint back, closer to center, to improve performance and the remainder of the board remains true to the original.

The black carbon strip down the center of the board pays homage to Ben Aipa’s wide stringer color work, as seen in the late 70’s version. The ’76 STING combined with Dark Arts Tech is bound to be a modern classic!

Suggested ordering ¼” thicker than normal board.

Note:
In Stock Surf Boards will be shipped within 2 business days of purchase.
Custom surfboards will be shipped within 4 to 6 weeks of purchase.