What happened, and why it took a year

Shipping internationally is never simple, and for a while, a combination of logistics costs and import complexities made it impossible for us to offer US shipping at a price that made sense for anyone. We weren't willing to pass unreasonable costs on to our customers, so we paused US orders while we worked things out.

It wasn't an easy call. We heard from a lot of American surfers during that time — some patient, some not so patient (fair enough) — and we kept that in mind throughout.

Why now is different

Shipping costs from our end have dropped significantly. That, combined with some adjustments to how we handle import duties on our side, means we can finally offer a pricing structure that works. It's not perfect — we do absorb some extra costs compared to our European orders — but it's sustainable, and that matters for the long term.

We're not just reopening US orders quietly. We're doing it properly.

What's changed for US customers

Here's exactly what shipping looks like now:

Longboard packs — free shipping. No minimum order, no fine print. We're absorbing the full cost because we think that's the right way to welcome people back.

Shortboard packs — 50% off shipping. The logistics on smaller orders are trickier, but we've cut the shipping cost in half so it stays reasonable.

This is a permanent change, not a promotion. These are our new standard rates for the US.

A 15% welcome-back discount

To celebrate the return, we're offering a 15% discount code on all orders for a limited time. Use USABACK15 at checkout — no minimum spend, applies to everything in the shop.

We know a discount doesn't make up for a year of waiting. But it felt wrong to just flip the switch without marking the moment in some way.

Why Van der Waal?

If you're new here — Van der Waal makes surf grip pads and traction products designed to perform in real conditions. The name comes from Van der Waals forces, the molecular attraction that makes things stick. It's not just a clever name; it's the principle behind how we think about grip.

Our pads are used by surfers at every level, from weekend longboarders to competitive shortboarders, because grip isn't something you want to compromise on. When you're committing to a turn or holding a nose ride, what's under your feet matters more than most people admit.

What's next

We're working on expanding the range available for US customers, and we're looking at faster shipping options for the East and West coasts. More on that soon.

For now: welcome back, USA. It's good to be here.

Use code USABACK15 for 15% off your order — limited time only.

Free shipping on longboard packs. 50% off shipping on shortboard packs.