Surfin' Shorts

About This Movie

So, Surfin' Shorts from '64 is a neat little documentary that brings together three of Bruce Brown's short films. The vibe is laid-back and fun, really capturing that early surf culture. 'The Wet Set' showcases the Hobie-MacGregor Surf Team, and it’s got that sweet mix of enthusiasm and genuine surf stoke. Then there's 'America's Newest Sport,' which dives into skateboarding with the Hobie Super Surfer Skateboard Team—definitely a glimpse into the evolution of board sports. The television special is a real treat too, especially with that youthful energy of 12-year-old Peter Johnson on his surfing trip to Japan. The pacing is breezy, matching the atmosphere of the era, and it feels like an invitation to join in on the fun.

Surfin' Shorts has seen various formats over the years, but the original prints are becoming rarer as time goes on. Collectors often talk about the charm of the 16mm versions, which seem to retain that vintage surf feel better than later transfers. Interest in the film has been growing among enthusiasts of surf history and those keen on the evolution of skateboarding, making it a distinctive piece in any collection focused on mid-20th-century American sports culture.