Caldwell Marchant

Member of the Month for January 2023

When and why did you initially get into surfing?

I first got into surfing when I was in high school. My friend gave me one of his old short boards which I could barely stand up on. At the time it was just a hobby, but now surfing feels more like a lifestyle.

Did you have a time period you laid off from surfing?

I left Hawaii in 2012 and lived on the mainland for over 6 years. I had a skateboard that I would ride around, but didn’t touch a surfboard for most of the time I lived there. Getting to the beach was too time consuming, and the freezing water didn’t help much either.

What is your favorite thing about surfing?

There's so many things I love about surfing. It’s fun, a good workout, a great way to make friends, etc. If I had to pick one thing, I love experimenting with different board shapes and fin set ups. Searching for that perfect combo is exciting and the feeling when you find the perfect set up is unmatched.

Where is your favorite place to eat after surfing?

On my way home I love to stop by Andy’s Sandwiches or Off the Hook in Manoa.

What is your favorite item on the menu?
Tuna melt + guava smoothie from Andy’s or a half spicy half wasabi poke bowl from OTH. 

What other hobbies do you have besides surfing? 
When the waves pick up on the south shore, I love taking my camera out to take pictures of my friends and other surfers. I’m still learning, but if you ever see a guy with a camera and an orange helmet, feel free to ask for a picture! My photo instagram is @doghands.photography. Outside of surfing I have a passion for electronic music. I enjoy DJing and (trying to) make my own music. I love experimenting with sounds in the same way I enjoy experimenting with boards/fins. 

What type of work do you do? 
Prior to moving back to Hawaii, I spent a good amount of time working as an audio technician and recording engineer. Currently I am a UH student looking to get a marketing degree. I hope to one day land a marketing job in the music or surfing industry. 

Tell us about the board you recently purchased from us. What model and size is it, and how do you like its performance? 
The most recent board I purchased from HSS was the Sub Xero from JS industries. It’s a 5 fin, everyday driver that works well with a large variety of fins. On a small day, it feels electric with a good twin + trailer set up (I love the KS Endorphins 2+1 on this board). For the bigger days, throw in some quads and you’re good to go. 

Do you have any additional comments? 
Hawaiian South Shore is the only place I go to get anything related to surfing. Over the past two years I’ve had nothing but good experiences whenever I walk into the store. They have an amazing selection of boards and other accessories, and their staff is always friendly and willing to help you find what you need. I can’t imagine shopping anywhere else on the south shore.