Matyas Studnicka’s two-in-one product Surfsnug is part of the Edinburgh Napier Degree Show
A surfing product design student, who fell in love with Scotland’s great 
outdoors, has combined his passions to create a reversible two-in-one item for fellow wave riders.
Matyas Studnicka’s outdoor changing robe which can be turned inside out to reveal a surfboard carrier, called Surfsnug, is on display at the 2024 Edinburgh Napier University Degree Show.
Originally from, Pardubice, a town near the Czech capital Prague, the 22-year-old moved to Scotland to study at ENU, and has since become president of the Napier Surf Club. It was during a day out with them that the idea hit him.
“We were at Dunbar when I noticed beginner boards, or ‘foamies’, are too big for one person to carry,” he said. “I was thinking about how you can improve that experience.
“There are a lot of products out there that do just one thing. I thought, ‘why not maximise their uses?’”
Matyas has since spent the final year of his BDes (Hons), Product Design course making and testing Surfsnug.
The final prototype combines water resistant ripstop fabric with a warm tartan fleece lining – a nod to the Scottish beaches which inspired it.
"The aim is to help keep you warm and also keep your belongings with you,” Matyas added. In Scotland, surfing locations are quite often remote, so I think it could be useful.”
"It was a relief when I first stitched it together, to actually be able to see it. A course mate tried it on and said 'this feels cosy' – which was a great feeling!
“The Surf Club members have also been with me throughout the journey, helping me to shape the product."
Now settled in Scotland, the reversible robe is just the start for Matyas, who wants to build a career in Scotland’s world-renowned outdoors sector.
He is planning to continue that journey at Edinburgh Napier’s School of Arts & Creative Industries, by going on to join the MSc Creative Advertising course.
Reflecting on his project, Matyas said: “It's been fairly stressful, but also a good challenge.
“Finding materials suitable for the finished product was tough. I hadn't used a sewing machine before either!
"I love Scotland because of the outdoors. You can do so much.
“It was between Scotland and the Netherlands when I was deciding where to study, but I'm so glad I decided to come here."
The Edinburgh Napier Degree Show is a week-long celebration of our students' talent as they present their final projects to friends, family, industry, and the public. Click here to find out more or attend at our Merchiston campus from 24-30 May.