Riley Balsa Wood Surfboards

"Stellar service from Mark Riley. Ordered eight $9'6"$ balsa sticks for a gun build on the North Shore; they were quoted and delivered from Australia to Hawaii in under a week. The grain and section sizes are world-class. If you need high-quality balsawood, Mark is the man to talk to."

Great experience with Mark! Board even better than expected. Highly recommend

I have ridden many boards over the years, but crafting my own with my two sons was truly special. Working with Mark Riley, an experienced surfer and skilled craftsman, made the experience both inspiring and rewarding.
The process was clearly structured and easy to follow, with each step carefully explained so we understood not just how, but why. His expertise gave us confidence, and he ensured everything was done safely and efficiently.
What stood out most was his ability to build our skills through patient guidance and hands-on learning, striking a great balance between instruction and independence. His calm, friendly approach made the experience enjoyable throughout.
All timelines were met as promised, reflecting his professionalism. The final fibreglass finish on our boards exceeded expectations.
Overall, it was a memorable and worthwhile experience. We left with high-quality boards that paddle and surf exceptionally, new skills, and great family memories. I would highly recommend these classes to anyone wanting a deeper connection to surfing through craftsmanship.

Mark sent me 2 amazing pieces of perfectly quarter sawn cedar boards that are in the process of becoming the sides of a plectrum shaped guitar. While it won't surf very well, it will sound better than his surfboards (grin) - quality product, quick delivery, a great deal

Thank you kindly guys and girls 🙏

• Hi Mark, thanks for the photos much appreciated. We all were impressed with the finished boards and looking forward to trying them out. James and Natasha will give theirs a good workout, especially James who has the skills. I am hoping to advance my poor beginners skills on a great new board. I think Natasha’s board may end up bumping off the old Shane board that Gavin got renovated for a wall feature.
Regards Nigel

A fantastic course with an amazing finished product at the end. Mark is a fountain of knowledge and experience and a steady guiding hand. 10/10 - have already recommended to friends.

I was a little bit disappointed. I thought it come in a jar, not in a plastic bag, but anyway the product is great. It makes it easy to use on my models which makes it easier to sand and thank you

Hi, received some of your balsa putty yesterday for working on balsa RC plane bloody fantastic stuff. I've tried a couple of so-called modelling putties, but compared to your product, they were all shit. Keep up the good work, Steve

It’s a magnificent work of functional art. Mark Riley is masterful craftsman and artist.

So sorry Mark for the delayed text - just wanted to say a massive thank you for all your support with Jack finalizing the surfboard for his major work. Cannot thank you enough. He loved working with you Kristy

Hello Mark,

I just wanted to get back to you regarding the order sent to France.

After a hand injury forced a break (amazing what a planer can do to your hand... first time in 30 years of use!) I finally got around to opening things up and began shaping this week.

The cut lumber looks great, that'll be for the second board.

Anyway, I'm stoked to be advancing on this and thanks for working with me on billing and shipping.

Best Jeffrey from France