Spyder: Best surf shop
Spyder Surf. Photo by Chelsea Schreiber
Spyder Surfboards was started in 1978 by up-and-coming pro surfer Dennis Jarvis to provide high performance surfboards. In 1983, he opened his first retail store on the corner of Artesia Blvd. and Pacific Coast Highway.
“I had a vision and plan of where I wanted to be in five years,” he said. “I wanted to continue the surfing lifestyle and feed myself.”
Traveling as a pro surfer in the early ‘80s, Jarvis was able to create relationships with the top tier action vendors.
“I made many key partnerships with brands that Spyder still carries today,” he said.
In 1997, Jarvis opened a second location on Pier Plaza. Through the years, many leaders in the surf industry and pro surfers from Ted Robinson, Kelly Gibson Chris Frohoff, Greg Browning to Alex Gray and Dane and Kelly Zaun got their start at Spyder behind the counter or on the team. The current staff keeps up with Jarvis’ belief of providing good customer service, having knowledge about the product, and selling a great product at the best price.
“I have to thank Richard “Dickie” O’Reilly, my managing partner, for being instrumental in keeping Spyder on an even keel through the chaotic surf industry,” he said. “And also manager Chris Browman for constructing the hottest groms surf team in the South Bay.” — ES
Spyder Surf 2461 Pacific Coast Hwy, Hermosa Beach. (310) 374-8276 & Spyder 2
65 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach. (310) 374-2494 Spydersurf.com.
Runner up: Becker Surf, 301 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach. (310) 372-6554.