Why We Built Norst Balance Boards
Finding Flow in a Place Without Waves
Growing up in East Anglia, where the surf is as unpredictable as a British summer, I spent more time waiting for waves than actually riding them. Unlike our friends in Cornwall or Devon, we had to get creative to stay surf-fit year-round.
Every surfer, wakeboarder, or climber knows that consistency is key. But when the ocean isn’t cooperating, or the wake park is closed, how do you keep progressing? That’s where the idea for Norst Balance Boards started.
The Intersection of Craft, Training, and Philosophy
I’ve always been obsessed with the craftsmanship behind board sports. Whether it’s the curve of a surfboard, the shape of a skate deck, or the edge control of a wakeboard, the right design can change how you move.
When we started making balance boards, we didn’t want just another generic training tool. We wanted something that felt like the boards we ride—something designed for real training, for fluid movement, for true board feel.
"If it didn’t exist the way we wanted it, we had to build it ourselves." – Dan, Norst Founder
More Than Just Training: A Tool for Strength, Flow, and Control
Surfing, wakeboarding, and climbing all share one thing: they demand balance, precision, and control. Our balance boards help develop:
- Heel-toe transfers for better rail control in surfing and wakeboarding.
- Core strength and stability for climbing, yoga, and all-round athleticism.
- Mindfulness and focus—because balance training requires being present in the moment.
It’s not just about training harder; it’s about training smarter.
Culture First, Business Second
Norst isn’t just a product—it’s a philosophy. Inspired by old-school skate culture, surf shaping, and the science of movement, our boards are designed to be an extension of your training, not just another piece of gear gathering dust in the corner.
Everything we do is influenced by the stories we love—films, music, philosophy, and action sports culture. Whether it’s the DIY spirit of skateboarding or the flow state of a perfect wave, Norst is built for those who live for movement.
Built by Riders, for Riders
We started in my dad’s shed, shaping boards by hand. Now, every Norst Balance Board is made in our Colchester studio with the same attention to detail.
Hundreds of surfers, wakeboarders, and climbers across the UK have trained on our boards. They’re built to last, to take a beating, and to help you move better—whether you’re training for the next session or just looking to stay connected to the sports you love.
Join the Movement
If you’re serious about progression, training, and movement, a Norst Balance Board is for you. Ready to start training?
Shop Norst Balance Boards