Rhody Gem: DRIFT Surf Shop

November 2021

Posted

We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. Email or tag us on social media using #RhodyGem to suggest yours, and we might just feature it!

What it is:

A surfers’ haven, DRIFT is a one-stop-shop for boards, gear, swimwear, and wetsuits, along with coastal apparel designed in-house and a selection of art and home goods (like eco-candles) made by local creatives.

Where to find it:

It’s hard to miss the surfboards in the window of this Wakefield shop in the Quo Vadis plaza, right next door to Sweet Althea’s.

What makes it a Rhody Gem?

More than a casual shop, DRIFT is the embodiment of the surfing lifestyle, an identity forged over time by dedicated owner Rob Jones, a lifelong surfer with decades of experience in the industry and many adventures under his belt traveling coasts around the world to catch a wave. For seasoned surfers taking advantage of Rhode Island’s fall swells, custom boards can be built by East Coast shapers, or if you’re just getting your toes wet, Jones and other knowledgeable store attendants can help set you up with the best board and equipment for your use (whether new, used, or rented), plus lessons for all levels. Says a new enthusiast of a recent lesson, “I’m sure there are other good instructors in RI but I can’t imagine anyone more positive, patient, and knowledgeable than Rob. Not only was he able to quickly recognize where I was struggling and help me focus, but he was just as invested as I was to stand up on that board... and I did!”

DRIFT Surf Shop540 Kingstown Road, Wakefield • 932-6919 

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