When surfboards get a second life

Provide the Slide is a Swiss/German NGO that collects used surfboards and equipment and gives them a second life. What might otherwise be lying around in a basement or garage becomes a real opportunity on the west coast of Africa.

From surf shop to the coast of West Africa.

When Chris visited our shop in 2020, Provide the Slide had just been founded. We were the first collection point – and remain so to this day.

Used surfboards and equipment are collected in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria – free of charge and hassle-free. The gear is inspected, repaired, and subsequently passed on to local surf communities.

There, old boards create new perspectives: young people gain access to surfing, build a network, and can in some cases even develop their first opportunities for income.

This synergy makes Provide the Slide a project that goes far beyond the sport itself.

But what makes Provide the Slide so special to us?

Surfboards are more than just sports equipment. They connect people, create experiences, and open up new perspectives. Provide the Slide shows how much potential lies in existing equipment – and how easy it can be to make a positive impact with it. For us, it’s clear: if we love surfing, we should also give something back.

The film provides an insight into the work on the ground and shows what becomes of the donated boards.

You can find more information about Provide the Slide and ways to support them directly on their website.

Bring your old board by and give new opportunities

Many of our customers drop off their old boards with us – giving them a second life in the process. Or you can support Provide the Slide with a monetary donation and help make transport, repairs, and projects on the ground possible.