I shape, glass, and make fins by hand. I craft very small batches and focus on quality over quantity. Growing up in San Diego, the ocean has always been my retreat. I enjoy surfing as much as I enjoy building!

Over the years, I've been fortunate to learn from many talented individuals. Much of my experience came through trial and error, countless hours in the shop, and lessons shared by those willing to pass on their knowledge.
Early on, I worked as a glasser and did ding repair. I quickly realized that learning this trade wasn't easy. There were no rulebooks—just coveted street knowledge, and closely guarded trade secrets.

Everything changed when I crossed paths with the crew at Birds Surf Shed. There, I had access to incredible equipment, invaluable knowledge, and an environment that encouraged learning. I soaked up everything I could during the years I spent working there.

At the Shed, it wasn't uncommon to meet some of the finest craftsmen in the world. San Diego has long been a hub for high-quality, handcrafted surfboards, and almost everyone eventually stops by to see Bird and his collection.

At the time Larry Mabile & Dane Perlee were shaping out of the Shed. I was lucky enough to spend countless hours watching Larmo shape, I always appreciated his smooth, clean, classic, San Diego style craft. Overtime I also built a great relationship with Dane Perlee. Danes designs always stood on their own. Early on Dane took an interest in the fins I was making & eventually I started making fins for Danes Osprey label. Building fins for Osprey and working with Dane has been a huge contributor to my experience and knowledge not only in fin making but board building & surfing as a whole.

Being surrounded by legendary craftsmen and passionate surfers continually pushed me to expand my skills and deepen my understanding of the craft.

Eventually, I built my own workspace and began building full-time. The work is demanding—there's nothing glamorous about fiberglass, resin, and long hours in the shop. But I take pride in the process. Nothing replaces persistence, repetition, and old-fashion hard work.

I'm grateful to carry on such a meaningful craft. Surfing and the ocean have given so much to me throughout my life. Building by hand is my way of giving something back—to the community, to the culture, and to the core of surfing itself.

To my family, mentors, friends, and everyone who has supported me along the way, thank you!

-Adrian Ortiz