[The April issue of] TransWorld Business takes a look at the state of the surf hardgoods market, checking in with the industry to see how surfboard sales are faring.

The past five years have been tumultuous for surfboard manufacturers. All markets naturally ebb and flow, but the ripples that formed in the
wake of Clark Foam’s closure in December 2005 quickly turned into waves. For many surfboard builders, dodging and duck-diving the formidable set of challenges that ensued has taken a toll.

That being said, there appears to be a lull on the horizon. After three years of retailers reporting being over inventoried with surf hardgoods, the tide seems to have begun its turn. According to a survey of 75 of the leading surfboard retailers in the U.S., 76 percent described their current surfboard inventory as either about right, slightly under-stocked, or under-stocked. Of the remaining 24 percent, 22 percent said they are only slightly overstocked, leaving a mere two percent in the flooded category.

Spy and Transworld Surf are hosting the ‘Hang Out with Alana Blanchard’ contest! Yes. You read that right. This is your opportunity to meet and hang out with Spy team rider Alana Blanchard, aka ‘the world’s hottest surfer,’ at one of the days during the US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach, California (July 17-26th). You’ll also get to be on Transworld Surf’s famous Cote’s Cube at the Open!

Just tell us why you should be chosen to hang out with Alana in 50 words or less. (PS…it doesn’t hurt to go the extra mile. We strongly encourage creative submissions through Flickr, YouTube, etc. Just submit your link). Contest ends July 15th.

One grand prize winner will be lucky enough to spend time with Alana Blanchard, receive a Spy prize pack and a one year subscription to Transworld Surf. Two-runners ups will receive Spy prize packs. Good luck! (You’ll need it to win this contest!)