Brain Asymmetries

We're pleased to introduce you today to Rafa and Quelo of Brain Asymmetries from Valencia, Spain.  We've only just started working with these guys, and they've intrigued and interested us from day 1 - putting our skills to the test in our first collab fins together with some special logo work - check out the shot above to see what we mean.  We're excited about the creative possibilities to come with future collaborations - watch this space!

We sent Rafa and Quelo our Shaper Stories questions to find out a bit more about them and their boards...

Tell us where you’re from and where you’re based.

We are Rafa (design & art) and Quelo (shape and glassing), from Valencia, Spain.  We're currently living between Málaga and Valencia, travelling as much as we can to the ocean.

What inspired your logo/brand name?

Our logo and brand, BRAIN, was inspired by the desire to create what was inside our brains, and how each and every human being has the need to create what’s inside their brain.  We are really focused on analyzing each person's mind and transferring it to their custom creations - shape and design wise.

Tell us a bit about how, when and why you got into shaping.

We started this journey almost three years ago on Quelo's rooftop, in an effort to shape boards we could not find in any surf shop.  Needless to say, that first handshape and its glassing were not the best, though we enjoyed the process and learning so much.

What kind of boards do you mostly shape?

Our main focus is on twin fins and single fin boards, not because of trends but because of functionality.  Here in the Mediterranean surfers need a bit more help from the surfboard and its ability to generate speed.  Twins have reduced drag compared to thrusters, and with longboards you’d be surprised how many days you can get in the water here.

Then we could talk about the asymmetrical designs, which has always intrigued us and it's why we started making boards.  We don’t make many asyms, only for the crazy friends who dare surfing the most crazy looking boards.

What’s your preferred fin set up to a) shape and b) surf?

We used to work with some upright and long base keels from different brands, but since we received our custom Macho Fins twins we almost only work with them, both for shaping and surfing. The template, angle and design is custom made for our boards and ideas, and they couldn’t look more beautiful.

Best tip for the budding shaper?

Numbers are everything.  The more time you spend making templates and measurements, the better chance you have of reaching what you have in your mind.  There is always the ‘’soul’’ element when shaping, letting your heart guide your hands, but I would save that style for when you’ve made a few and your eyes are used to the curves.

What’s been the most memorable board you’ve ever shaped & why?

A 5’6 little fish, our SelFishness model.  This one in particular worked in everything you wanted, ocean or Mediterranean, we sold it used to have money for more foam blanks.  We still regret it to this day.

What's the bonus of using Macho Fins in your boards?

We asked Macho to do a custom twin fin design for us.  They are a blend of an upright keel and a full long base keel, so they have the perfect balance between drive and pivot.  We can use them on our retro fishes and on the more performance twins, they are the perfect addition to our boards.  We have made fins before, and knowing their process and difficulties we are more than impressed by the quality of craftsmanship Macho delivers.  Best handmade fins ever!

Thanks Rafa and Quelo!  And you can check out Brain Asymmetries on their website and Instagram.