Mike Diffenderfer -
1937 – 2002

Once described as the Michelangelo of shapers; best known for his exquisitely crafted big wave guns; went to high school in La Jolla Ca. and dated classmate Raquel Welch. Mentored by shaping legend Pat Curren and influenced by the hydrodynamically advanced designs of  Joe Quigg; crafted surfboards for a large stable of renowned 70s era big wave surfers including Jeff Hakman, Joey Cabell and Jimmy Lucas. Shapers honoring Mike Diffenderfer in 2007 included Ricky Carroll, Scott Ray , Jim Phillips, Marc Andrieni, Tim Phares, and Terry Martin. Florida shaper Ricky Carroll won the inaugural Tribute to the Masters Shape-off honoring Mike Diffenderfer . *

* Courtesy of Matt Warshaw’s Encyclopedia of Surfing