Iconic Lightning Bolt Turns 50

Way back in Hawaii 50 years ago, Gerry Lopez and Jack Shipley teamed up to shape and design boards that reflected the changing needs of 1970s surfers; boards that were shorter, quicker, lighter and more nimble. As a result, in 1971, Lightning Bolt Surfboards entered the market.

2021 marks the 50th anniversary of the famed lightning bolt that is instantly recognisable, both inside and outside the world of surfing. 

Press Release:
LIGHTNING BOLT CELEBRATES 50 YEARS 

For Lightning Bolt, a universal lifestyle symbol, these 5 decades represent a golden era.

There are stories to share beyond the golden years of surfing (the ‘70s). For that reason, the brand has just launched a digital magazine and a commemorative video highlighting the main events of its 50 years.

According to Sandra Gonçalves, CEO of the brand, “what best defines us and what we have most important to share are real experiences. An authenticity attested by the undeniable legacy of our founders and greatest surfers in the world, as well as by the spirit and talent of the new generations who feel identified with the brand”.

Thus, throughout the year, Lightning Bolt will celebrate the achievements of everyone who is part of its history. A differentiating and unique storytelling, which reinforces the positioning in the lifestyle segment: “since the beginning, the brand is far beyond surfing as just a sport. The core message is that surfing is a lifestyle that, together with the adventurous spirit and values such as tolerance, stimulates physical and mental development, allowing a deep connection with Nature. Our goal is to continue building a community and raise awareness towards sustainability”.

There is a lot more to come!

New website
Living the present and planning the future with respect for the past is the focus of the brand, which is why Lightning Bolt has also just launched a new website.

Following technological developments and digital trends, particularly in the “new” normality imposed by the pandemic context, the Lightning Bolt website is now faster and more intuitive.

Accessibility, navigability, and content organization have been revised. Likewise, in-store news, different product subcategories and special offers are highlighted in the menu and homepage navigation.

With an increasingly diversified offering, answering to current market needs and lifestyles, Lightning Bolt remains focused on providing a personalized and complete after-sales service.

These have been the pillars of the brand over the years: authenticity, respect, sharing, commitment, trust, and quality.