Who Is Matt Biolos? Uncover the Legendary Surfboard Shaper Revolutionizing Surf Culture
Have you ever asked yourself, “Who is Matt Biolos?” He’s not just another name in surfing—he’s a creative force who reshaped modern surfboard design. As the mastermind behind Lost Surfboards, Matt Biolos has built a legacy rooted in innovation, punk rock energy, and a relentless drive to evolve wave-riding. Whether you're new to surfing or deep into the culture, this guide breaks down his impact, from early days in Dana Point to global surfboard fame.
Here’s what you’ll discover:
• Matt’s Southern California roots and early influences
• The rise of Lost Surfboards and his brand identity
• How tradition and technology come together in his designs
• His impact on pro surfing and surf culture worldwide
• Quick answers to the most asked questions about his work
Whether you’re searching for “who is Matt Biolos” or just curious about a true surf industry icon, keep reading—this article is packed with insights.
Early Life and Influences
Growing Up in Southern California
Matt Biolos was born into the heart of California surf culture. Although he didn’t come from a typical surf family, weekends on the family boat in Dana Point Harbor introduced him to the ocean early. Hanging out at shipyards, learning mechanical skills, and soaking in dockside life helped shape his unique perspective on surfboards. These real-world skills laid the foundation for his future in shaping.
Photo: Michael Miller | https://www.theinertia.com/
The Punk Rock and DIY Culture
Matt’s surfboard designs are as rebellious as his roots. In the 1980s, he was immersed in punk rock and played in a band. The “do-it-yourself” (DIY) mindset of that era still runs through his work. That punk energy, combined with surf culture, earned him the nickname “Mayhem.” It became his signature and set his boards apart with edgy designs and attitude.
The Rise of a Surfboard Shaping Icon
Breaking into the Industry
Matt shaped his first board in a friend’s garage in the late '80s. Quickly realizing this was more than a hobby, he worked under legends like Herbie Fletcher. These early mentors taught him every stage of board building—from sanding to glassing. But Matt didn’t stop at tradition. He began crafting shapes that matched each surfer’s needs, creating a whole new standard for personalized boards.
Founding Lost Surfboards
Driven by a passion to innovate, Matt founded Lost Surfboards. His creative risk paid off. Today, Lost is a top-tier brand trusted by elite surfers like Kolohe Andino, Griffin Colapinto, and Carissa Moore. Matt’s boards are designed for performance, but they carry his signature style—raw, fearless, and progressive.
Mastering the Art of Surfboard Design
Customization for Every Wave and Rider
No two surfers are alike—and Matt shapes accordingly. Whether it's a board for Hawaii’s Pipeline or the softer surf at Sunset, his designs cater to both elite athletes and everyday surfers. He considers wave type, body mechanics, and individual style before shaping a board. That level of customization is why his boards perform in both everyday sessions and world-class competitions.
Integrating Innovation with Tradition
Matt still values hand-shaping but embraces new tools like CAD software. One standout innovation? His use of carbon wrap technology. This method enhances board flex and durability, giving surfers a high-performance ride. You can see this in action in videos like “Behind The Curtain – Matt Biolos.” He’s always evolving—blending craftsmanship with science to stay ahead of the curve.
The Role of Volume and Fine-Tuning
One major breakthrough Matt introduced is prioritizing board volume. By adjusting length, width, and thickness, he creates boards tailored to each rider’s size and wave environment. Small shifts in rocker lines or rail curves can change how a board behaves. This precision is a big reason why Lost Surfboards remain a favorite in both pro and recreational circles.
Elevating Surf Culture and Business Legacy
Impact on the Competitive Surfing Scene
Matt’s boards aren’t just art—they’re winning tools. Athletes riding Lost boards have earned major titles on the Championship Tour. Industry pros credit Matt’s balance of aesthetics and engineering for shaping the modern performance standard in surfing. His boards let surfers tackle waves with both power and finesse.
A Brand Built on Authenticity and Innovation
Even with global success, Matt remains grounded. You’ll still find him in the shaping bay, not a boardroom. That personal touch gives Lost Surfboards its authenticity. While other brands get swept up in corporate trends, Matt continues to lead with creativity, making his brand a beacon of real surf culture.
So, who is Matt Biolos? He’s more than a surfboard shaper. He’s a pioneer, a punk-rock craftsman, and a visionary whose influence stretches across the surf world. His boards aren’t just products—they’re part of a cultural shift toward creative, custom performance design.
At Hawaiian South Shore, we embrace this spirit of craftsmanship and performance. If you want to experience boards built with the same passion Matt Biolos brings to the shaping room, explore our exclusive collection today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Matt Biolos?
He’s the founder of Lost Surfboards and a surfboard shaper known for blending rebellious creativity with elite-level board design. His boards are ridden by pros and loved by surfers around the world.
What makes his surfboards unique?
His designs mix hand-crafted methods with modern tools like CAD and carbon wrap technology, making boards both performance-driven and visually distinctive.
Which surfers ride Lost Surfboards?
Champions like Kolohe Andino, Carissa Moore, and Griffin Colapinto ride boards shaped by Matt Biolos.
How did he get the nickname “Mayhem”?
It came from his punk-rock background and DIY approach to board shaping—traits that continue to define his edgy design style today.
What does Matt say about the future of board materials?
He sees a rise in sustainable tech like EPS cores and epoxy finishes, which offer better flex, strength, and customizability.
Want to ride a board inspired by decades of innovation? Explore our shop or connect with us online to find your perfect match.
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