Some shapers are born with their feet in the sand, while others invent their own destiny. Jeff McCallum falls into the second category. Unlike most California shapers, he didn't grow up by the ocean. Denver, Coloradofar from the waves. And yet 18 years oldhe takes over the management of San Diego for his studies and discovered a world that was to draw him in: that of surfing and artisanal shaping.
Getting started: shop sweeper and introduction to shaping
When Jeff arrived in California, he wasn't content with just surfing. He wants to understand how these boards are made. He starts at the bottom of the ladder, sweeping through Chris Christenson's studio. A thankless job? Perhaps, but a total immersion in precious know-how. He observes movements, asks questions, and learns the trade down to the smallest detail.
Under Christenson's tutelage, he doesn't just shaper: he also learns to glaze, finish and polish boardsThis comprehensive approach to the business would become a hallmark of the company. This all-encompassing approach was to become a hallmark of the company. At McCallum, there's no question of delegating just anything: every board, every fin is the fruit of meticulous work.
Independence and the creation of McCallum Surfboards
On the strength of this experience 2001 to launch under his own name. McCallum Surfboards is born. Its philosophy is clear:
✅ A minimalist shapewhere every curve has a purpose.
✅ A fusion of ancient and modernwith a strong influence from Skip Frye, Bob Simmons and George Greenough.
✅ A total commitment to craftsmanshipwhere the finish is as important as the design.
A far cry from the high-performance shortboards of the moment, he chooses to explore fish, hulls, Mini Simmons and quadswith an alternative approach that will quickly win over surfers looking for a different kind of ride.
McCallum fins: an extension of the shape
Where others simply follow the market, Jeff goes further. He doesn't just think about his boards, he also redesigned the fins. Each design is tested and optimized to improve fluidity and speed.
🔹 Twin Keel A mix between a modern vertical twin and a retro Keel. Wide base, elongated profile, perfect balance between control and release.
🔹 Raked Quad Designed for fish and wide boards, it offers a powerful drive and smooth relaunch, ideal for fast, hollow waves.
Its ailerons quickly became the benchmark and were developed under license with Captain Fin Co. and distributed in Europe by the Shapers Club.
Impact and international recognition
Little by little, McCallum builds his name. His boards found their way into the hands of passionate surfers and collectors. His work is acclaimed for precision, sleek aesthetics and fluid performance.
The media take an interest in him: he appears in documentaries, interviews and even an Emmy-nominated series on PBSwhich highlights his unique approach to shaping.
Despite the recognition, he keeps his feet on the ground. His work remains rooted in a craftsman's approachwith attention to the smallest detail. He explores new technologies, uses Fusion 360 for perfecting digital modelswhile remaining true to its values of authenticity and transparency.
Today, it offers different levels of manufacturing, from theentirely handmade in the USA to more affordable models produced in Mexico, but always with the same high standards of quality. Unlike others, he hides nothing: his Mexican boards feature a laminate with pesos instead of dollars, proudly affirming their origin.
McCallum today: between heritage and modernity
From her beginnings in Christenson's dusty workshop to her status as a alternative surfing's essential shaperJeff McCallum has imposed a singular vision. His creations continue to inspire, blending retro aesthetics and contemporary performance.
👉 Its history is that of a craftsman who has never sought to follow fashions, but to create timeless designs. A perfectionist who sees each board, each fin, as a unique piece, crafted to last and offer an exceptional riding experience.
From Denver to San Diego, from sweeper to master shaper, McCallum has never stopped refining his art.
