Luke Morris

The Best Surf Bands of All Time | Guide

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

Don’t you just love listening to those songs that evoke feelings and nostalgia from the good times you’ve had at the beach? As I currently listen to The Beach Boys’ famous hit song “Wouldn’t It Be Nice”, I’m instantly taken back to the post-surf session drinks with my buddies, the road trips, the sun’s heat, the wind… Man, those were some good days! Surf bands are part of our culture. Truth be told I think surfing overall wouldn’t be complete without those catchy tunes that sing about the endless summer days, beautiful girls, riding top-down, and chasing waves. Throughout my career, I’ve had my fair share of listening to different surf bands — from the oldies but goodies to the modern surf anthems that grommets hum while they wait in the lineup. In this article, I’ll share the best surf bands you’ll love listening to if you’re a fan of this music genre. The History of Surf Music Surf music, also known as surf rock or pop, is characterized by light tunes, electric guitar phrases, and drenched reverbs that mimic the sound of the ocean’s waves. It comes in two forms — the instrumental surf wherein you can hear the more distinguished sound of the electrical guitar, and the vocal surf wherein the the vocal harmonies are the main highlight. This music genre originated in the coasts of Southern California regions like San Diego and Orange County. It reached its peak in the early ‘60s when the Californian surf band ‘The Beach Boys’ introduced their music to the surfing crowd. After that, other surf bands followed suit. This music trend later on developed different forms such as surf pop, surf punk, surf rock, and hot rod rock. In 1964, however, the music careers of most bands in California ended when the British boy band ‘Beatles’ took over international charts. This event was also known as the ‘British Invasion’, or the nationwide spread of United Kingdom’s pop culture in the United States. Amongst all of the popular surf bands in the US during that period, only The Beach Boys were able to rival The Beatles in the US top charts. Best Surf Bands of All Time The Beach Boys may have paved the way for Californian surf music, but other successful surf bands have also created their mark in this genre. The Ventures If The Beach Boys is for vocals, then The Ventures is for surf instrumentals. Formed in Washington in 1958 by Don Wilson and Bob Bogle, this quartet popularized electric guitar and solo drum performances. Their breakthrough song “Walk, Don’t Run” inspired a lot of surfers to learn how to play the guitar in the ’60s; hence why they were also called ‘The Band that Launched a Thousand Bands’. One of The Ventures famous songs, “Wipe Out”, is a classic record that perfectly showcases Max Weinberg and Mel Taylor’s jaw-dropping drum skills. Perhaps the best part about it was the transition between their parts that’s just equally flawless and captivating. “Wipe Out” is a song that’s also featured in countless films and surf footage. In the midst of its popularity, this song was practically heard everywhere — in malls, high school pep rallies, and inside classrooms when the boys tried to beat its rhythm with their pens. And since The Ventures’ timeless music doesn’t have a language barrier, their songs not only dominated the United States but also Japan. In 1965, five of their songs reached the Top 10 singles in Japan’s charts. They’ve also sold over 110 million albums worldwide. This surf band may have underwent different phases throughout their career, but the fact remains that their music is one of the bests even until today. In 2008, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, meanwhile, the “Walk, Don’t Run” track was granted the Grammy Hall of Fame award. The Beach Boys Did you know that before they become the most celebrated and influential surf band in the United States, The Beach Boys only started out as a garage band? Formed in Hawthorne, California, The Beach Boys was characterized by their vocal harmonies combined with unconventional surf rock style. They’re also known to experiment with different music genres such as rock and roll, jazz, classic, and R&B. A lot of people were able to relate to The Beach Boys’ music because they perfectly represented the surfing culture and lifestyle of Californians in the ’60s — the beaches, the trips, the freedom, and the young romance. They began their successful career in 1963 when they topped the charts with their hit single titled, “Surfin’ U.S.A.”. Their success continued up until the British Invasion wherein they were known as The Beatles’ only rival as they dominated the international charts. But success comes with a lot of costs — and The Beach Boys was a proof of that. Members of this surf band have gone through a lot before they made it to the top. The Beach Boys’ main composer, Brian Wilson, suffered from mental illness, Dennis died young because of drowning, and all the Wilson kids suffered abuse from their father throughout their childhood and professional career. The Beach Boys’ history may have its highs and lows, but there’s no denying of the impact they’ve made in the surfing culture. They’ve sold over 100 million records worldwide. Thirty-six of their songs reached the Top 40 charts from when they started in the 1960s until 2010. They also have a total of 4 entries in the Top 100 charts — the most entries an American surf band has ever had. Finally, Rolling Stone hailed The Beach Boys as ‘One of the Greatest Artists of all Time’, and they were also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. Dick Dale & His Del Tones Before there were Jan and Dean and The Beach Boys, there’s Dick Dale & His Del Tones. This surf band is considered the first-ever surf band in the history, and … Read more

Surfing 5 Foot Waves | Risks and Tips

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

I don’t consider 5-foot waves as the biggest waves out there, nor do I think of them as the easiest to surf on. I suppose they’re the transition between ripping and dropping in — and while 5-foot waves do attract a lot of surfers, I know a lot of people who choose to stay away from them because they’re quite treacherous. Right now you might be thinking, “5-foot waves? Pfft… That ain’t much on Tourmaline!” Different surfing spots have various interpretations of wave heights. In some places, 5-foot waves are considered mellow, but in other surfing spots, 5-foot waves can drag you underwater with its rip currents and kill you if you’re not a pro. It’s a complicated topic, but in this article, I’ll teach you everything you need to know about surfing in 5-foot waves including its dangers and some beginner-friendly tips on how you can surf on them. What do 5-foot waves look like? The photo above will give you a ballpark of how high a 5-foot wave is; however, you should know that this scale differs from other surfing locations. Aside from that, they are also known in other terms such as knee, waist, chest, head high, overhead double, and triple. Hold up… that’s not even the end of it. There’s another measurement exclusively known amongst surfers called the Hawaiian or the Haleiwa scale wherein the 1 to 3 ft. overhead in most places is only considered as 3 to 4 ft. waves in Hawaii. In this famous surfing spot, 3-foot waves can easily snap board and break bones, while 5-foot waves mean death — sometimes, literally. There are a couple of reasons why the North Shore peeps have their own wave scale. Back in the days when California, Australia, and Hawaii are the only places famous for surfing, the Hawaiians would often downplay their wave size to the Californian surfers who visit their beach. When these non-local surfers get awestruck by their waves, the Hawaiians will say “Meh, they’re really not that big.” Another reason for this absurd scale is to avoid their lineups and beaches from getting too crowded. The North Shore lifeguards used to announce small wave sizes to limit the number of tourists coming for their surf breaks. And then there’s the ‘surfer modesty’ that plays a minor role in the Haleiwa scale. During the early days of surfing, the pros would try to trivialize their accomplishments by downplaying the sizes of the wave they successfully rode in. Until today, the surfer’s perspective of wave sizes is still stereotyped. If you’re not careful, you are at risk of being called a kook if you mistakenly identify a wave bigger than how the other surfers see it. 5-foot waves vary from spot to spot, and it also depends on different surfers’ perspectives. With that said, you need to rely on your best judgment and abilities to figure out if you can surf big waves as such. Surfing 5-Foot Waves Perhaps the reason why you’re here is you’re a beginner who frequently surfs on low waves and is now up for more challenging rides. You could be searching for tips on how to ride the 5-foot waves. Or you could also be looking for the last straw of hope and motivation to continue chasing such difficult waves. 5-foot waves or bigger are hard to come by. So on days when they occur, beginners stay back to the shore to drink their morning coffee while hardcore surfers finally get in the water to get some stoke on. On these rare occasions, the waves are hollow and barrels are better. There’s also less crowd in the lineup because only a few people are able to ride these waves. Surfing Tips Being a beginner who is about to try surfing on 5-foot waves or higher can be nerve-wracking. But unless you’re 100% fully adapted to surfing smaller waves, I suggest you stick with 1 to 2 feet waves first before making the jump. The sea will let you know when you’re ready — if the water wiped you out and you can’t get back up to your board, take that as a sign to swim back to the shore and surf with smaller waves first. Now, if you’ve tried surfing on a 5-foot wave before, you’d know that dropping in on them is as difficult as catching them. They can go by so fast without even giving you a chance to drop in. So to increase your chances, you need to know how to read waves. Look at the horizon before going into the water. You must position yourself to the part where you think you’ll be able to catch the most waves. Since 5-foot waves move fast and riding down their face needs the right momentum, you don’t have the luxury of time to second guess if you will drop in or back out last minute. If you want to catch that wave, you need to commit to the drop as soon as you see it coming towards you. Don’t back out last minute because it’s dangerous and you may injure other surfers if you lose your board in the event of a wipeout. Determine if the wave is too big for you, and if it is, it’s best to get back to the shore and just sit it out. Being an excellent swimmer and paddler also plays a role because big waves move faster than small ones. If you move slow, then you won’t be able to pop out and drop in at the right moment. Of course, the key to becoming better at paddling is to paddle more, and for smoother pop-outs, do inclined push-ups and practice popping up prone from the floor. Another beginner-friendly tip when it comes to surfing bigger waves is to choose the right size and volume of your surfboard. These will depend on your weight and the location where you’ll be surfing. Also, surfboards with a straight … Read more

Buell Wetsuits Review | Epic Wetsuits or Rip Off?

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

Buell Wetsuits have produced top-quality surf suits for the most demanding athletes for over a decade, but it only shot to popularity in recent years. The newfound fame of the brand is because of its sponsorship of Jamie O’Brien, mostly known as Mr. Stay Psyched, a YouTube star. Jamie’s YouTube channel reached new heights in the last year, and Buell was able to ride the wave of his success. Right now, Buell wetsuits became the new kid on the block, with an increasing number of athletes and sportspeople trying to find out what it brings to the table. If you are in the market to get a new wetsuit, our Buell wetsuits review can help you find the latest in the market. Top 8 Best Buell Wetsuits Reviewed Check out our comprehensive review of the all-time best-selling wetsuits from the brand. All of the features are top-quality materials and construction that Buell is known for, while they may differ in features and specs. RBZ Stealth Mode 3/2 Full Wetsuit RB1 Accelerator 4/3 Full Wetsuit RB3 Attack Mode 3/2 Full Wetsuit RB2 4/3 Hooded Full Wetsuit RB1 2mm Junior Spring Suit RB2 5/4 Hooded Full Wetsuit RB1 1mm Neoprene Wetsuit Jacket RB3 Attack Mode 3/2 Junior Full Wetsuit 1. RBZ Stealth Mode 3/2 Full Wetsuit An excellent quality wetsuit doesn’t have to drain your bank account. They can be pricy investments if you want to keep yourself protected while in the ocean, but there are tons of affordable options available. Buell offers a wide range of wetsuits for all athletes and sports enthusiasts, and its best value is the RBZ Stealth Mode 3/2 Full Wetsuit. This full wetsuit gives you the best value for your money, a modest option for new surfers, or scuba divers with a limited budget for a wetsuit. You won’t have to settle for low-quality features and specs with this full wetsuit either as it comes with some cutting-edge design and construction. Buell fitted this suit with a Ninja Neoprene V-Foam material, durable, stretchy, flexible, and comfortable to wear. You can avoid any rashes and discomfort even in extended hours of use, thanks to the suit’s Soft Seal seam tape in the interior and external triple-glued and blind-stitched seams. However, that’s not all that the Stealth Mode wetsuit is excellent for, as it comes with a Snake Seal smooth skin feature at the neck for maximum comfort and watertight functionality. There are also waterway seals at the wrist and ankle enclosures to ward off water from entering the suit. Buell added an inner barrier at the back-zip entry to protect the zipper and keep the cold air and water out. The Supratex knee pads are an excellent addition, too, giving you more protection and overall durability to the wetsuit against all elements. 2. RB1 Accelerator 4/3 Full Wetsuit Performance should always be top-notch, especially in pro athletes, and in doing the most extreme watersports. You need a wetsuit that can offer 100% freedom of movement without any discomfort or restriction when it comes to boosting your performance while in the ocean. Buell offers maximum flexibility to all hardcore athletes and sports enthusiasts without compromising warmth and protection with its RB1 Accelerator 4/3 Full Wetsuit. The suit clings to your body like a second skin without becoming too tight and uncomfortable. It follows your movement 100%, thanks to its cutting-edge combination of Ninja neoprene fabric and Ultraspan flex fabric. This masterful blend gives you a highly flexible wetsuit to chase the waves without restriction while still keeping you warm and away from the freezing air and water. The interior lining made out of the flex-fabric material is also cozy and warm. The perfectly placed and ergonomic panels and the triple-glued and blind-stitched seams further add to the wetsuit’s durability and watertight features. The chest-zip entry features a snap-tight-out flap design and a cross-over pattern to provide the wetsuit with a tight seal against the air and water. Other excellent features that you can get from the RB! Accelerator wetsuit is the embossed Supratex Tuff knee pads for protection and an easy-to-access and secure key pocket. 3. RB3 Attack Mode 3/2 Full Wetsuit Especially when surfing, you need to wear a wetsuit that can keep up with you’re formidable waves. Attack the surf like a masked ninja with another of the best-selling surf apparel from Buell, the RB3 Attack Mode 3/2 Full Wetsuit. It’s a weaponized surf suit suitable for all surfers and sports enthusiasts that wants optimum performance. Made with Ninja neoprene fabric, this wetsuit is durable, flexible, and comfortable to wear. It follows your movement 100%, so you won’t feel like your clothing restricts you. The Soft Seal seam tape inside the suit keeps you comfortable, withing rashes or itching while you are wearing it. On the outside, the seams get the same careful construction with triple glue and bling stitching to provide durability and a watertight feature. What stands out in this wetsuit, especially if you are performance-driven, is its zip-free entry design. Without the zipper’s stiffness, the wetsuit becomes extremely flexible than others with a zip entry system. The wrists, neck, and ankle enclosures get a rich paneling with a watertight feature, thanks to the Snake Seal smooth skin addition. Supratex knee pads are also a bonus to keep you protected from any bumps while in the ocean. 4. RB2 4/3 Hooded Full Wetsuit If you plan to go surfing or scuba diving even when the water temperature drops, getting a thicker full suit is essential to prevent hypothermia. The RB2 4/3 Hooded Full Wetsuit from Buell’s collection is a great option. Not only is it a full wetsuit that provides warmth and protection to your entire body, but it also comes with a hooded design. It keeps your head and ears protected from freezing air and water temperatures as well. Also, the 4/3mm thickness of the suit provides enough insulation to keep you toasting in the most frigid water environment. Forget about quivering … Read more

Hotline Wetsuits Review | Epic Wetsuits or Rip Off?

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

Choosing the right wetsuit allows you to enjoy your favorite water sport all year round. It lets you stay warm against cold waters and lessens the chances of bruising on impact. At first sight, the list of qualities you need to consider tends to get overwhelming. Knowing what you need to look for, though, ultimately allows you to have a better time at the beach, no matter the weather. Hotline, a brand based in California, has consistently provided high-quality wetsuits and other accessories for surfers of all ages. The wide range of sizing options and their custom-made offering allows you to have a wetsuit catering specifically to your needs. We’ve narrowed down in this list the best of their wetsuits according to their adaptability. Top 6 Best Hotline Wetsuits Reviewed Women’s Women’s Reflex 2.0 Hooded Wetsuit: Top Pick for Women Women’s UHC Hooded Wetsuit Women’s She VZ Spring Wetsuit Men’s Men’s GT Wetsuit: Top Pick for Men Men’s Reflex 2.0 All Wetsuit Men’s Reflex Short Sleeve Wetsuit 1. Women’s Reflex 2.0 Hooded Wetsuit: Top Pick for Women Features G2 Fly Zip Entry Thermal Lining Ring of Fire Stitching Drawstring hood K2 Kevlar Knee Pads Detachable Key Ring The 100% Neoprene material in Hotline’s Reflex Hooded Wetsuit allows you to get in and out of it smoothly, improving your comfort. A thermal lining maintains your body temperature even on the coldest days, letting you surf any day. This feature also makes your wetsuit wind-resistant, letting you focus on your stability. Its durability is assured with the Ring of Fire Stitching that keeps the entry panel from immediate damage. This wetsuit is glued thrice with double-blind stitching and strongly reinforced seams that promise you of getting your money’s worth. The YKK Zipper guarantees superior quality that will not easily break even with sharp tugs. An anatomically accurate drawstring hood gives you an added layer of protection against other elements. Its drawstring lets you adjust the hood correctly to the size of your head, improving its efficiency. The Kevlar blend knee pads promise superior quality that will not crumble easily from the constant beating and protects your knees from injuries. 2. Women’s UHC Hooded Wetsuit Features Nylon and Neoprene Combo Drawstring hood Melco Reinforcements Freeze Free Lining K2 Kevlar Knee Pads Detachable Key Ring UHC stands for Ultra Hot Combo, which makes this wetsuit perfect for your winter rides. The combination of Nylon and Neoprene maximizes the level of warmth it allows and comfortably lets you get in and out of the suit. A Freeze Free lining lets add to the heat it offers, trapping your body temperature, and deflecting the cold water from ultimately seeping through the suit. Like Reflex 2.0, the UHC has an anatomically right hood that protects your head from varying elements. It also has a drawstring that lets you accurately fit the cover to your head. The shoulder-to-shoulder zipper allows for easier donning and doffing, allowing for better maneuverability during winter. Melco reinforcement on the wetsuit’s inner panel assures you of its durability, making this a worthy investment. It is also double-stitched, thrice-glued with seams taped firmly, promising you that it will break apart easily. This wetsuit also has Kevlar blend knee pads that are flexible but do not compromise durability to decrease your risk of injuries. 3. Women’s She VZ Spring Wetsuit Features Chevron Design Lines Super Stretch Neoprene EZ Key Pocket Melco Reinforcements Hidden YKK Zipper Bootie Cut The She Vertical Zip Spring Wetsuit lets you surf in style with its ergonomic design. Its super-stretch Neoprene material enables you to slip it on and off comfortably, perfect for sunny days when you feel like being in a bikini post-surf. Chevron design lines account for this wetsuit’s ergonomic quality, which hugs your body and emphasizes your curves. Its bootie cut adjusts to a bikini fit, making the suit adaptable to all body types. Melco reinforcements, along with blind-stitched seams are glued thrice to assure you that this wetsuit will not fall apart from constant use. A hidden, vertical YKK zipper gives this suit a sleek finish, with the zipper ensuring of excellent durability. 4. Men’s GT Wetsuit: Top Pick for Men Features Thermal Nylon Back Panel Gummy Neoprene TransFlex Knee Pads Fluid Seam Seal V Back Entry Detachable Key Clip The Gummy Neoprene material gives you a very comfortable fit that smoothly glides as you put the Men’s GT Wetsuit on. It contains your warmth with the Nylon Thermal panel on the back, allowing more surfing time during the winter. Its Neoprene material is secured with Fluid Seam seals, assuring you of its durability. The seams are blind-stitched closed by spot tape, making sure that they can take the beating of constant use. This wetsuit’s deep V-back entry allows you to enter and exit quickly, with a highly durable YKK zipper that can withstand continuous tugging. What sets this wetsuit apart is its TransFlex Knee Pads which boast superior flexibility. This feature allows for better coordination and maximum support on your knees to lessen the toll it takes from constant surfing. You can easily slip on your hands and feet with the EZ technology on their fabric. A key clip on the ankle lets you keep your things secured, lessening your worries as you surf. 5. Men’s Reflex 2.0 All Wetsuit Features Thick Thermal Lining Neoprene Magnum FireSeam GT Ring of Fire Stitching Kevlar Knee Pads G2 Fly Zip Entry The thermal lining covering the entire wetsuit makes the Men’s Reflex 2.0 All Wetsuit a step ahead of the GT variant. This feature improves the suit’s ability to trap your body heat, allowing for a more comfortable experience during the winter. Hotline’s highly acclaimed Neoprene allows you to slip in and out of this wetsuit comfortably. Its ergonomic quality also improves its flexibility, letting you optimize every paddle. All of the seams in this wetsuit are secured with Magnum FireSeam GT tape, keeping its stitching and glue intact despite the constant beating. Its Ring of Fire … Read more

Top 6 Best Costco Coolers

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

In this review of Costco coolers, we cover some of the best products that most users love, such as Igloo MaxCold, Camp-Zero Premium, and more. Find out a few pieces of information on coolers, such as short history, frequently asked questions and a buying guide. Top 6 Best Costco Coolers in Review Most of the time, users use portability, versatility, and enjoyability as criteria for choosing a cooler to buy. Additionally, some people select their products based on the insulation capacity. Here are some of the users’ top choices. Igloo MaxCold Cooler Camp-Zero Premium Cooler Massimo Portable E-Kooler Blizzard Box Portable Cooler Trinity Stainless Steel Cooler Titan Zipperless Cooler 1. Igloo MaxCold Cooler The MaxCold coolers are among the users’ Igloo product favorites. This series is available in soft-sided and hard-sided models. What distinguishes these are their specifications and sizes. This series can keep ice from melting from 7 to 150 hours, depending on the specific model you choose and other factors. Even though it has the necessary features, what makes this model more attractive to customers is its affordable price. When it comes to insulation, the Igloo MaxCold Cooler is one of the best. You can expect almost up to six days of ice retention for the large models, while up to four days for the small ones. Its Cool Riser Technology enhances the insulation feature of the Igloo MaxCold Cooler. Cool Riser Technology refers to the elevated placement of the ice chest above the ground. It helps improve the cooler’s insulation because it avoids ice from touching the hot sand, which is why ice melts fast. Not all MaxCold Cooler models have wheels, but the large models have, which aid the products’ portability. Therefore, even though you put a lot of food, ice, and beverages inside, you can move your cooler from place to place. 2. Camp-Zero Premium Cooler The manufacturers created the Camp-Zero Premium Coolers with travelers in mind. The models in this series are great for outdoor activities, such as boating, camping, tailgating, and the like. According to Camp-Zero, travelers can use their Premium Cooler models frequently, whether daily or weekly, because of the coolers’ high-end features. The insulating ability of Camp-Zero Premium Coolers is not different from the others. It has thick foam walls that protect the cooler’s internal temperature from its environment. The Camp-Zero Premium Coolers have flexible handles. The smaller models’ handles are aluminum-made, but the larger ones have a rope design with a grip that makes handling comfortable, painless, and relaxed. Camp-Zero is most proud of its rotomolded construction. This series is almost indestructible. The company can guarantee its durability by encouraging its frequent outdoor use. Even if a bear attacks your camp, you can expect that you will be dead, but your Premium Cooler is still whole and unscathed. Plus, you do not have to tip your cooler to get rid of the liquid inside. With this feature, you can easily pull the plug, release it, and allow the cooler to drain. 3. Massimo Portable E-Kooler The Massimo Portable E-Kooler is another option for those people who love the outdoors. According to the manufacturer, it is ideal for road trips, vacations, and other outdoor activities to last for days. It comes with accessories that let you connect it to a power source. Therefore, this cooler alone is enough to freeze water. It also comes with an app that enables you to track the condition of your food inside. The Massimo Portable E-Kooler comes with three CX series: CX30, CX40, and CX50. If you have a power source, you can plug it in to charge it to work like a fridge. Plus, you can adjust its coolness. You do not have to worry about your food going stale or melting ice because the Massimo Portable E-Kooler has a dense foam that traps the cold in your device. Depending on the CX model you choose, Massimo Portable E-Kooler has spacious storage. For the CX30, which is the smallest among the series, you can already store several cans of soda. 4. Blizzard Box Portable Cooler The Blizzard Box Portable Cooler has almost everything that a camper needs. It has a complete set of features that can even cater to other camper essentials. It has a user-friendly design that allows you to get food or drinks without finding the latch. It makes use of a 12-volt vehicle adapter, and it has a digital control panel, where you can set the climate temperature. What makes Blizzard Box Portable Cooler a more advisable product for campers is its USB port. You can charge your phone using this cooler. Even though this cooler uses electricity, you do not have to worry about draining your car’s battery. Blizzard Box Portable Cooler has a low-voltage cut-off that ensures that you can still go home from your trip. It does not matter if you spend nights or days camping. Because of Blizzard Box Portable Cooler’s interior lighting, you do not have to feel blind guessing what kind of food your hands can get from it. The cooler has interior lighting that allows you to see everything in your storage, even if it is nighttime and you are out of fire or light to see in the dark. 5. Trinity Stainless Steel Cooler Even though the Trinity Stainless Steel Cooler is not as portable as the mentioned products, you can at least impress your friends and house guests with the excellent presentation of this cooler. The Trinity Stainless Steel Cooler is not for campers or travelers because of its bulky size. It is merely for presentational and house use. It is also an ideal cooler for a barbecue or pool party in your backyard. From the product’s name, you can already tell that this product is stainless steel. However, it is not just any kind of stainless steel but a high-quality kind. This cooler is sleek, which will impress your friends and loved ones. It is also enormous enough to carry … Read more

Takayama Surfboards Review | Epic Boards or Rip Off?

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

Donald Takayama made a name for himself as a critically acclaimed and world-class surfboard shaper and designer who got his start fashioning wood boards using old railway tires. His humble beginnings paved the way for his global success, and today, surfers can purchase his boards across the world. Donald’s designs are the product of the continuous modification and refinement of his work, making Takayama surfboards among the world’s most sought-after boards. Despite his death in 2012, he is still considered one of the most prolific shapers in the industry. Takayama’s success began in the 1960s when he crossed paths with Dale Velzy. Velzy offered Takayama a job in mainland USA at Velzy-Jacobs Surfboards. He also worked as a shaper at Surfboards Hawaii, and soon after, established Hawaiian Pro Designs (HPD) in the 1970s. As Donald worked on building HPD, he produced popular models like “In the Pink,” “The Egg,” and “Scorpion.” He also went on to collaborate with Surftech and started producing surfboards featuring Epoxy construction. Top 10 Best Takayama Surfboards Reviewed Takayama – In the Pink Surfboard – Tuflite 9’6 Takayama – Beach Break Surfboard 9’0 Takayama – Scorpion II Soft Top Surfboard 7’0 Takayama – The Egg Surfboard 7’6 Takayama – Double Ender Surfboard – PU/Poly 9’6 Takayama – Howard Mini Surfboard – PU/Poly 8’0 Takayama – Model T Surfboard – TufLite V-Tech Takayama – Classic Stepdeck Surfboard Takayama – Humu Fish Takayama – Prince Kuhio DT Glider Surfboard #1. Takayama – In the Pink Surfboard – Tuflite 9’6 Specifications: Dimensions: 9 feet 6 inches x 23 15 inches x 3.2 inches Volume: 81.3 liters Conditions: Ankle-high to overhead barrels Construction: Fiberglass sandwich, Epoxy, EPS Foam, TufLite-PC Fin System: Single fin with FCS twin tab side bites Fins Included: No Great For: Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced The Takayama In the Pink is one of the most in-demand longboards from the Takayama brand. It is widely popular for its capacity to perform excellently in any condition. This board is a top-of-the-line noserider, capable of riding through ankle-high slop or full overhead barrels. No matter what type of surfer you are, you can get maximum waves with this board. This product is a result of Donald Takayama’s great collaborative work with TufLite for over two decades. Before his death in 2012, they have established a relationship built on passion, dedication, respect, and trust, that allows the production and delivery of top-notch products that remain faithful to Donald’s designs, up to this day. The board’s incredible TufLite-PC construction has resulted in a perfectly durable and lightweight board that guarantees a fantastic overall performance. #2. Takayama – Beach Break Surfboard 9’0 Specifications: Dimensions: 9 feet x 22.1 inches x 2.7 inches Volume: 63 liters Conditions: Knee-high to overhead barrels Construction: Fiberglass sandwich, Epoxy, EPS Foam, TufLite-PC Fin System: Single fin with FCS II side bites Fins Included: No Great For: Intermediate/Advanced With the Takayama Beach Break, surfers can expect a unique ride. It is the most performance-oriented and progressive longboard among Takayama’s designs. This surfboard features a customizable or “tuneable” 2+1 fin setup, a squash tail, a pull-in performance nose, extra rocker, and hard down rails. This board, when appropriately used, coupled with the right skills, can deliver aggressive surfing, lots of speed, and vertical attacks. #3. Takayama – Scorpion II Soft Top Surfboard 7’0 Specifications: Dimensions: 7 feet x 21.9 inches x 2.7 inches Volume: 47.9 liters Conditions: Knee-high to overhead barrels Construction: EVA deck, Epoxy construction, EPS, Micro-Veneer, Softop Fin System: Single fin with FCS Quad Fins Included: Yes – Quad set and single fin Great For: Kids/Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced The Takaya Scorpion II Soft Top is the successor of the original Scorpion board. It is, in fact, an excellent re-imagining of the latter, which was quite a popular Takayama board. Today, the new version features a “more rounded out” version, compared to its predecessor’s lacking bottom end. The Scorpion II now features a broader and more ample tail and overall outline. Widening the board’s tail now allows the user to go short when riding. Furthermore, this model features a thermal formed EVA deck that provides excellent traction and less pressure and stress on the ribs and knees when paddling. This Softop board is ideal for beginners or those wanting to improve their skills, but not yet ready to commit to a hard deck board. This kind of board is often used in surf schools and rentals, making it an in-demand product for more than two decades. #4. Takayama – The Egg Surfboard 7’6 Specifications: Dimensions: 7 feet 6 inches x 21.45 inches x 2.95 inches Volume: 53.5 liters Conditions: Knee-high to overhead barrels Construction: Fiberglass sandwich, Epoxy, EPS Foam, TufLite-PC Fin System: Single fin with FCS II Side Bites Fins Included: No Great For: Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced Takayama’s “The Egg” surfboard is a mid-length board that can accommodate surfers with varying abilities. It’s the ideal ride for surfers who are on the fence about both shortboards and longboards. The board provides ample paddling speed, early wave entry, and lots of speed, down-the-line. This board can even work for experienced older surfers who might be experiencing a few challenges when it comes to fitness. The Egg’s features will allow them to hustle alongside fitter and faster counterparts. More importantly, anyone who uses it can expect lots of fun and ease. It’s Takayama’s most iconic shape, so no surfer should miss out. #5. Takayama – Double Ender Surfboard – PU/Poly 9’6 Specifications: Dimensions: 9 feet 6 inches x 22.75 inches x 3.06 inches Conditions: Knee-high overhead barrels Construction: PU/Poly Tail: Round Pin Fin System: Single fin Fins Included: No Tail Patch: No Great For: Intermediate/Advanced The Takayama Double Ender is a versatile board that can accommodate surfers of all levels. It does well in smaller waves but may require some footwork to keep the board in the curl. Its weight may also be a little challenging, but there are no other concerns apart from that. What’s excellent about this board is that it’s easy to use and … Read more

BZ Surfboards Review | Epic Boards or Rip Off?

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

Surfing the waves can be an exhilarating experience, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced surfer. Nothing beats the feeling of chilling under the sun while feeling the waves take you for a ride. It is crucial to have the right equipment if you’re just about to begin bodyboarding or surfing. BZ offers a wide range of surfboards, bodyboards, and skimboards. They have a good selection of products that can serve surfers with different skills and capabilities. When you purchase a BZ board, you can expect distinct elements found in their product designs, aesthetics, and functionality. BZ products are lightweight and durable, and when you read the reviews below, you’ll know what exactly makes their boards among the top products in the market. Indeed, you’re sure to get your money’s worth with all the fun and excitement you’re going to have while riding a BZ bodyboard or surfboard. Top BZ Surfboards Reviewed BZ T-10 Bodyboard BZ Pro Bodyboard BZ Soft Top Surfboard 7′ BZ 8-foot EPS Surfboard – Squash Tail Shape, PU Leash, and Three-Fin Setup Fiberglass Skim Board 48″ BZ Bodyboard – Fundamental Ripper Soft Top Surfboard 6′ Advantage Bodyboard Accessories – Travel Board Bag 1. BZ T-10 Bodyboard If you want to try something aside from surfing big waves, you can try to ride it using a bodyboard. You’ll need a suitable one, and BZ has something to offer, like the BZ T-10 Bodyboard. It’s available in two sizes, 40 inches, and 42 inches. It’s shorter than the Fiberglass Skimboard, but it makes sure you’re getting the best when it comes to control and stability. It doesn’t come with a mesh, yet the 8-pound deck will make sure you stand with full comfort as you glide on little waves. This board comes with an RCS Single Stringer, and it comes from a premium-quality of PE core with an HDPE slick advantage. Customers admire it because it guarantees excellent durability and performance. Aside from that, it also features pin-stripes and a crescent tail, which is the reason behind this board’s agility. Plus, it’s lightweight as well, which makes it easier to control at any speed. When it comes to style, this board is available in three designs that match the beach vibe. It’s available in Black/White/Orange, Yellow/Pink/Silver, or Light Blue/Navy/Fluro Green. Also, it features a minimalistic look, which is pleasing to the eyes. 2. BZ Pro Bodyboard If you’re looking for a new experience, you should check out the BZ Pro Bodyboard. This board will get you into bodyboarding more because it’s easier to ride than surfboards. The crescent tail feature boosts its speed along waves by the shore. Also, it comes with Surlyn-slick bulbs and a tailpiece. BZ assures its sturdiness as the deck features an 8LB H-Cell advantage. It provides exceptional comfort as you ride it because of its Zero-G Polypro. Plus, the inclusive Tru-Flex Mesh makes it more favorable to users. You can select the size that suits your skills, such as 40 inches, 41 inches, or 42 inches. It even has different styles available, which users love because they can select the color combination they want. It’s also available in Grey/Black/Orange, Emerald/Black/Fluro Green, or Red/White/Electric Blue. Maneuverability is one of its edges because it enhances the skills of surfers. It only weighs 7 pounds, which makes it easier to control at any wave size. It’s not weighty, which users find comfier to bring anytime or anywhere. 3. BZ – Soft Top Surfboard 7 feet Specifications: Dimensions: 7 feet x 21.63 inches x 3.56 inches Construction: Polystyrene (EPS) Core Tail: Squash tail Fin System: FCS Tri-fin setup Fins Included: Yes Other inclusions: Fin key and leash Great For: Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced BZ’s 7-foot, soft-top surfboard features a graphic artwork titled “Eye Ball” on its deck. This board also has a bright white bottom slick made of high-density polyethylene, the same one installed in their EPS surfboard. All of BZ’s surfboards use the same materials, so there’s not much variation in terms of unique features and performance. This board has the same HDPE slick, EPS core, and squash tail, as well as the FCS tri-fin system. Again, much like the brand’s other surfboards, this product is suitable for any skill level but works best with surfers who have a lighter weight. The board isn’t performance-oriented, but it does deliver a smooth-riding experience whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate surfer, or a surfing pro. 4. BZ – 8-foot EPS Surfboard – Squash Tail Shape, PU Leash, and Three-Fin Setup Specifications: Dimensions: 8 feet x 23.25 inches x 3.94 inches Construction: Polystyrene (EPS) Core Tail: Squash tail Fin System: FCS Tri-fin setup Fins Included: Yes Other inclusions: Fin key and leash Great For: Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced This 8-foot, soft-top, EPS surfboard stands distinctly with what’s called a “So Cal contrast” graphic on its deck. It also features a clear, white bottom slick made of high-density polyethylene. The surfboard’s squash tail gives riders excellent stability and maneuverability in most conditions. At the same time, the EPS core provides fantastic buoyancy and ample flex, making it ideal for any surfer regardless of skill level. However, given the slick’s highly dense material, the board is best for riders who are lighter in weight. This precaution prevents the board from getting under too much pressure. Nevertheless, any type of surfer can use this product. Advanced surfers can also use this board to do unique tricks or maneuvers. 5. BZ – Fiberglass Skim Board 48 inches Specifications: Dimensions: 8 feet x 23.25 inches x 3.94 inches Construction: Compression-molded, Foam core with reinforced top and base Fin System: Single Skim fin (removable) Fins Included: Yes Other inclusions: Diamond CT EVA Pad with kicktail Great For: Intermediate Using the right equipment will make getting the hang of things more doable if you’re looking to explore skimboarding. BZ’s expertise in creating top-notch bodyboards made it possible for them to produce an equally excellent skimboard. The BZ Fiberglass Skim Board is an excellent addition to their line of high-quality products, and … Read more

Costco Wavestorm Paddle Board Review: Epic Board or Rip Off?

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

You may have heard about Wavestorm from the last time you went to get yourself a soft-top surfboard. Wavestorm has become quite popular in watersports gear since it started in 2006. They have swept the nation in terms of popularity. The biggest reason is their method of making sure they are seen everywhere. They are mass-manufactured, affordable, and can be found even in online retail stores like Amazon. Their fame came to rise with their surfboards labeled the best beginner board. Not long after, they came up with their version of paddleboards. Was their success with paddleboards as bright as what they have achieved with their surfboards? Let’s find out as we put their paddleboards out of the shadows. Wavestorm Paddle Boards for Adults Wavestorm has a line of SUPs specifically designed for adult riders. Most of them feel solid in almost all of the area, and the dimensions are just right to serve adult riders who are just beginning to paddleboard, going back to paddleboard, or trying to enhance their skill more with paddleboards. V1 Stand Up Paddleboard Expedition Stand Up Paddleboard 9’6” Stand Up Paddleboard V1 Stand Up Paddleboard Expedition Stand Up Paddleboard 9’6” Stand Up Paddleboard Board Dimensions 10’6” x 32.5” x 5.25” 9’6” x 33” x 5.25” 9’6” x 33” x 5.25” Board Volume 217 liters 195 liters 195 liters Board Weight 25 lbs (11.5 kgs) 24 lbs (11 kgs) 24 lbs (11 kgs) Carrying Capacity up to 300 lbs (135 kgs) up to 275 lbs (125 kgs) up to 275 lbs (125 kgs) Traction Pad Carven in V-traction pad Deck traction pads Inline deck traction pads Material High-quality EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam High-quality EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam High-quality EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam Stringers Triple marine-ply stringers for extra durability Triple marine-ply stringers for extra durability Triple marine-ply stringers for extra durability Fin System Strong molded fin system (single fin) Bolt-through fin system with removable 9” fin Bolt-through fin system and fin parts All three have been designed to be a buoyant board that is responsive and easy to maneuver. While the other two are a tad bit smaller than the first one. They all render the same responsiveness in quick turns. They do well in harsh conditions practically because of the dimensions dialed in their build. The storage strap feature is another thing you will love about Wavestorm paddleboards. This is what separates them from other low-priced paddleboards in the market. Anything you don’t want to leave behind on the beach, like your life jacket, can be tied down with the storage strap and kept safe with you. Wavestorm Paddleboards for Kids and Beginners Wavestorm paddleboards have nice foam tops that make them ideal for little ones to learn how to paddleboard. They also produce SUPs that are particularly for kids and beginners alike. Taquito 8’ Stand Up Paddleboard Taquito 7’ Stand Up Paddleboard True Wave 8’ Stand Up Paddleboard Taquito 8’ Stand Up Paddleboard Taquito 7’ Stand Up Paddleboard True Wave 8’ Stand Up Paddleboard Board Dimensions 8’0” x 25.5” x 3.75” 7’0” x 25.5” x 4” 8’0” x 25.5” x 3.75” Board Volume 93 liters 85 liters 93 liters Board Weight 13.8 lbs (5.5 kgs) 11 lbs (5 kgs) 13.8 lbs (5.5 kgs) Carrying Capacity up to 120 lbs (45 kgs) up to 120 lbs (45 kgs) up to 120 lbs (45 kgs) Traction Pad Inline deck traction pad Inline deck traction pad None Material High-quality EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam High-quality EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam High-quality EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam Stringers Triple marine-ply stringers for extra durability Dual marine-ply stringers for extra durability Dual marine-ply stringers for extra durability Fin System Bolt-through fin system Bolt-through fin system Bolt-through fin system Wavestorm’s Taquito and True Wave line of stand up paddleboards are your kids’ perfect companion for paddling around in ponds, lakes, or rivers. Kids and beginners love how lightweight and easy to use these paddleboards are. Their dimensions may not be far from the adults’ version, but at 7’ and 8’, they offer greater surface area than other stand-up paddleboards on the market. This makes them buoyant, stable, and easy to paddle. The stringers are well thought out in each model – triple for Taquito 8’ and double for Taquito 7’ and True Wave 8’. Just enough to make it stiff and to aid with the boards’ stability and durability. If you need a soft-top surfboard on slow and smaller beach break days, they can instantly turn into just what you need. Accessories for Wavestorm Paddleboards Wavestorm paddleboards usually come in packages that include: The paddleboard itself Fins Ankle leash Aluminum adjustable paddle But, there are also other accessories that you can include to enhance your paddleboarding experience. Expedition SUP Paddle – An ultra-lightweight and flexible paddle with a polypropylene blade channeled with a durable alloy shaft. The blade shape design allows for an increase in the effectiveness of paddling. Kids SUP Paddle – Formed out of a central foam core, Kids SUP Paddle is light in the waters and is easy to use. The handle can be adjusted up to 6’3 in length. Wavestorm SUP Board Sock – Made of knitted material to protect your SUP, particularly those with sizes 9’6” and 10’6”. Performance Surfing SUP Fin – Improved turning and maneuvering are the focus of this fin’s template. It can be used for kids’ 8’ and adults’ 9’6” and 10’6”. What Is Wavestorm? Wavestorm has been around since 2006 and makes one of the best-selling surfboards in North America. Their impressive statistics were achieved because of beginners and non-professional riders who don’t need professional and expensive equipment to ride with. These surfers would instead buy a cheap board they can pick up from Amazon. One that they or their family can abuse without feeling guilty about wearing out a fancy and pricey one. Agit Global is the company that makes Wavestorm Paddleboards for Amazon and other local surf shops. They are one of the world’s leading developers … Read more

Walden Surfboards Review | Epic Boards or Rip Off?

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

Regardless if you’re a casual surfer or an aspiring pro, buying the best surfboard will help you improve your skills effectively. As you search for the best one, Walden Surfboards offers a collection that’ll catch your attention, especially if you’re into longboards. Walden Surfboards commits to provide exceptional service in shaping and producing competitive surfboards. Quality was never an issue, as well as every surfboard’s design. Plus, the performance is worth the shot, especially if you’re an intermediate level to pro. The Top 8 Best Walden Surfboards Reviewed If you’re fascinated to know more about the collection of Walden Surfboards, here’s a Walden Surfboards review to consider if you’re searching for a brand new surfboard. Walden 9’6 Mucho Magic 24062 Longboard Surfboard Walden 8’6 Mucho Magic 24147 Longboard Surfboard Walden 9’0 Mega Magic 24124 Longboard Surfboard Walden 9’0 Magic Model 24139 Longboard Surfboard Walden 8’6 Magic Model 23849 Longboard Surfboard Walden 10’0 Magic Model #24129 Longboard Surfboard Walden 9’6 Magic Model 24118 Longboard Surfboards Walden 9’0 Mega Magic 24015 Longboard Surfboard #1. Walden 9’6 Mucho Magic 24062 Longboard Surfboard Walden offers a wide variety of longboard surfboards, and each doesn’t fail in providing optimum performance. If you’re looking for a surfboard to buy, you can check out the 9’6 Mucho Magic 24062 Longboard. This surfboard comes in a patented design, having a unique hull with a 1/2-concave in front. It features a single concave transition going to a double concave with a 1/3-rear. It comes with a typical “V” tail-design and an 18.50-inch nose, which provides the stability you need for nose-riding. It comes with a hard, orange rail that adds acceleration to the board as you maneuver it in any surf-condition. You’ll love how easy this board is when it comes to controlling, especially on the tail of the board. Also, it’s adaptable enough to be suitable for big or small surf. It also provides exceptional convenience since it only weighs 19 pounds, which surfers admire because it doesn’t cause any discomfort as they ride it along waves. Regardless of any wave-height, it’s ideal for beginners to pros. When it comes to sturdiness, you can count on it. It comes from a premium-quality of Polyurethane foam. It gives comfort on the soles as you ride the board, while the glossy-finish on top keeps it away from damages or scratches. Also, the foam provides excellent floatation, making it favorable to newbies. Agility is also one factor why you should purchase it, thanks to its 2+1 fin set-up. You can install Futures fins to make it more agile. #2. Walden 8’6 Mucho Magic 24147 Longboard Surfboard Another entry from Walden Surfboards is the 8’6 Mucho Magic 24147 Longboard, and this board will not be a disappointment when it comes to its floatation. Thanks to its quality-EPS foam, beginners will not have a hard time balancing their stance as they ride quick waves. This board is smaller than the 9’6 Mucho Magic 24062, between the Mega Magic and Original Magic models. It has a medium-size that helps in controlling the board, especially while turning and paddling. It also comes with a full rocker, which delivers optimum maneuverability on the trail, making it exceptional during nose-riding. It’s agile by default, yet you can install Futures fins on its 2+1 fin set-up. Besides its agility, you can assure that you get the board’s best performance during nose-riding. The patented design of this surfboard is what makes it very exceptional. The concave-hull, a single concave to a double concave, keeps the board stable and responsive, regardless of any conditions or wave-height. Plus, it comes with hard rails on the bottom curve, contributing to this board’s overall performance. Surfers love using this board because paddling is more convenient, regardless if you’re a newbie or a pro. You’ll find ease in driving it because it only weighs 14 pounds. Also, it’s 23.25-inch wide, which adds convenience to surfers as they paddle and shift to their surfing stance. #3. Walden 9’0 Mega Magic 24124 Longboard Surfboard If you can’t think of where to buy the best longboard surfboard, you should check out what Walden Surfboards offers. It has numerous options from the list, and one is the 9’6 Mucho Magic 24062 Longboard Surfboard. This surfboard is unique as it has the most reduced volume, which is up to 100 liters. The length and width of the board keep an exceptional balance between providing maximum performance. It also comes from a premium-quality of Expanded Polystyrene, which makes it sturdy and comfier to ride because of its added floatation. There’s convenience in controlling this surfboard because it only weighs 17 pounds. What makes it more desirable to control are the rails, rocker, and patented concave bottom. The blue hard rails and rocker make it very steady, regardless if you ride an SM-MED-type of a wave. Also, the concave bottom makes it more desirable to control, which works well during paddling, turning, and nose-riding. Aside from that, this surfboard is assured durable. It comes with a glossy finish, while the glassing-type is either 6+6 or 6 Bottom. Even when you’re weighty, this board can give you excellent surfing experience. If you’re expecting acceleration from this board, you can install fins with a 2+1 set-up to make it agile. Plus, the fin-type you can use is Futures. Its agility matches the board’s maneuverability level, providing exceptional performance to newbies, intermediates, or pros. #4. Walden 9’0 Magic Model 24139 Longboard Surfboard Longboards are all-around surfboards, and if you need to buy one from a trusted brand, you can never go wrong with 9’0 Magic Model 24139. This board by Walden is one of the bestselling surfboards, and it’s one of its classics, hailing from the 80s. This surfboard features a distinctive hull, with a 1/2 front that’s a single concave, and a rear 1/3 that’s double-concave. The nose-part delivers the stability and lift you need as you drive it, regardless of any wave-height. Plus, this design makes it responsive, despite any surf-condition. … Read more

Top 5 Best Big Wave Surfers

January 3, 2023by Luke Morris

The largest wave ever surfed (that has been recorded) was 78ft. That’s approximately the size of an 8-story building. When we speak of surfing as an extreme sport, big-wave surfers truly live up to the name by facing waves more than 20ft in size and traveling at speeds of 80 km/h and faster. Big wave surfers such as Jeff Clark, Eddie Aikau, and Shane Dorian are a breed of their own. Below is a list of some of the most iconic, influential, and experienced big-wave surfers that the surfing community has to offer. Best Big Wave Surfers Because what we all consider “the best” is subjective, it is impossible to decide who is or was the best big wave surfer of all time. That being said, here is a list of some of the most iconic big-wave surfers of all time. Eddie Aikau One of the most respected names in the world of surfing, Eddie Aikau, born in Kahului, Hawaii, in 1946 transformed from being the first official lifeguard hired by the City & County of Honolulu to becoming a legendary big wave surfer that every surfer has heard of. According to Eddie’s younger brother Clyde, he was “high risk at an early age” and although quiet, was always ready for a challenge or something risky. Summary Date: May 1946 – March 1978 Place of birth: Kahului, Hawaii Famous for surfing: Waimea Bay Interesting Facts: Eddie saved over 500 people as a lifeguard. Eddie never refused to enter the ocean if someone was in trouble and never lost a single person. Eddie was lost at sea after embarking on a historic migration route between the Hawaiian and Tahitian islands. After the canoe developed a leak, Eddie attempted to swim to shore for help but was never seen again. Jeff Clark There is only a small handful of surfers that are willing to brave the gigantic waves of Maverick, let alone be the first. Jeff Clark, born in the USA was constantly seeking bigger and stronger waves as he grew up until he discovered Maverick. Being the only person brave (or crazy) enough to paddle out and surf these waves, Jeff surfed Maverick alone for 15 years before he could convince another surfer to join him. When you understand that Maverick can get up to 60 ft, and breaks half a mile for the shore, you will begin to see why Jeff is such a legend. Not only does the wave break far out, but it breaks around a point, which leaves the surfer with a 45-minute maze of rocks and well to get past before they even reach the backline. Summary Date of Birth: March 1957 Place of birth: Redwood City, California. Famous for surfing: Mavericks. Interesting Facts: First person to surf Maverick. Surfed Maverick alone for 15 years. Founder of the Mavericks surf contest. Stared in the films “Riding Giants, Step Into Liquid, Adventures in Wild California, and Discovering Mavericks”. Gregg Noll (Da Bull) Born in California, Gregg Noll was an accomplished lifeguard and one of surfing’s first big wave celebrities. Nicknamed “Da Bull” by Phil Edwards (the first surfer to ride pipeline) for his charging surf style and bull-like physic. Gregg was a pioneer in big wave surfing, particularly for dominating Waimea Bay, which was commonly known as his “gal”. Once called “the Babe Ruth of surfing” by Jim Kempton, the president of the California Surf Museum, Gregg was a fearless big wave surfer, film star, and longboard shaper, just to mention a few. Summary Date: February 1937 – June 2021 Place of birth: San Diego, California. Famous for surfing: Waimea Bay, and Makaha. Interesting Facts: In 1953 Greg moved to Hawaii to live off the land and surf the coastlines with several other surfers. Manufacturer of “Da Cat” surfboards. During a storm in 1969, Greg rode what was deemed to have surfed one of the biggest waves in history at Makaha. Shane Dorian After touring for 11 years as a professional surfer, Shane Dorian gave up his pro career to indulge in the world of big-wave surfing. Since leaving the pro surfing world in 2003, Shane has caught the biggest wave at Waimea, one of the best waves at Jaws of all time, and the biggest paddle-in wave at Nazare. Shane is a force to be reckoned with in the big wave world and remains one of the best big wave surfers of all time. Summary Date of Birth: July 1972. Place of birth: Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Famous for surfing: Waimea, Jaws, Nazare, Mavericks, Teahupoo, and more. Interesting Facts: Founder of the Shane Dorian Keiki Classic. Billabong has been a long-time main sponsor of Shane. Awarded “Surfer of the Year” by WSL for his wave at Jaws. Laird Hamilton A pioneer of tow-in-surfing, and called the greatest wave rider of all time by many, Laird Hamilton seems to be completely fearless. Not only is Laird one of the inventors of tow-in surfing, but he is also at the core of stand-up paddleboarding, and hydrofoil boarding. This one model has become a legend in the surfing world and was once called “the sport’s most complete surfer” by Surf Magazine. Summary Date of Birth: March 1964. Place of birth: San Francisco, California. Famous for: Being a pioneer in tow-in surfing, Hydrofoil boarding, and stand-up paddleboarding. Interesting Facts: Laird was a model before his surfing career. Laird has been the star in multiple films, as well as taking part as a stuntman in surf scenes. The New York Times bestseller “Force of Nature: Mind, Body, Soul, and, Of Course, Surfing” was released by Laird in 2008, which is now a go-to manual for those seeking inspiration on living a healthy lifestyle. What Is Big Wave Surfing? Big wave surfing is exactly what the name implies – surfing big waves. However, in order to call it big wave surfing the wave needs to be a minimum of 20ft (6m). Big wave surfers are either towed or paddled onto these giants and … Read more

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