Joël Roux: welcome to the Lightning Bolt Shapers community

A pioneer in surfboard shaping and in contemporary art

Interview with Joël Roux

Joël, you've been a pioneer in surfboard shaping since 1965. Could you share with us how your journey began?

 My journey started in the late 60s when I honed my skills with Michel Barland. It was an exciting time, and working with Michel allowed me to develop a solid foundation. However, in 1972, on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, my work began to gain recognition. People noticed the quality of my shapes, which uniquely blended modernity and functionality.

You've worked with some significant figures in the surf world. How did your association with Jack Shipley and Lightning Bolt come about?

Jack Shipley, the founder of Lightning Bolt, recognized my talent and productivity. He offered me a role as a shaper within his prestigious brand. It was a fantastic opportunity that allowed me to push my creative boundaries and contribute to the surfboard-shaping world in a meaningful way.

You also worked at Topical Blend in Honolulu. How did that experience influence your shaping style?

Working at Topical Blend in Honolulu was another incredible chapter. I produced numerous surfboards there, all reflecting my unique vision. By combining a desire for innovation, technicality, and the beauty of form, I could set myself apart from other shapers of that era. It was about more than just making boards; it was about creating art that could perform.

You've traveled extensively and met many prominent figures in the shaping community. How have these experiences shaped your expertise? 

My travels and encounters with eminent figures in the shaping world have been invaluable. I developed expertise stemming from an intense and stylistically powerful era. I was fortunate to be a disciple of Mike Diffenderfer and Steve Colleta, forming unbreakable friendships with them. My association with Shaun Thompson for French production was also a significant milestone.

You describe yourself as a "child of the stars." How has surfing served as a means of expression and emancipation for you? 

Surfing has always been more than just a sport for me; it's a way of life and a means of expression. Whether it was my experiences at V-land or Pipeline, where I dared to surf the second reef, or my quest for freedom, surfing has been my outlet. It allowed me to express my profound spirituality and advanced shaping techniques, which still shine through in my boards today.

Your boards are known for balancing tradition and functionality while including a touch of sleek eloquence and beauty. How do you achieve this balance? 

Achieving this balance comes from a deep understanding of both the technical and artistic aspects of shaping. I never lose sight of the importance of functionality and performance, but I also ensure that each board has a touch of eloquence and beauty. This combination makes my boards unique and elevates them to an art form in their own right.

Thank you, Joël. Your journey and insights are truly inspiring.

Thank you. It's been a pleasure sharing my story with you.