Surphang Magazine
Issue 51
The Pro Show Captain america Champ Chats
Jhony Be Good!
Papalympic Potential! SURF CITY USA Twenty 17 talent YOUNG GUNS
Surphang Magazine
'All the Worlds a stage!' Maison du SURPHANG has successfully moved into its new more westerly base (just strides away from the River Avon where the delights of some Stand-Up Paddleboarding awaits!) and so here we are, back to business for our fifth year of bringing you all that is current in Supporting Upcoming Rider Potential Here And Now Globally. So what better way to start than looking at the upcoming talent that turned heads at this year's ISA World Surfing Games back at Biarritz in mid-May. We can bring you an exclusive interview with the new World Champ himself, Jhony Corzo from Mexico, alongside many other surfers whose talent shone beyond their years. And of course, no respectable surfing magazine could go unchecked without looking forward to the most historic event for the sport in a lifetime –the 2020 Olympics. So find your spot, sit back and get ready to enjoy the spectacle!
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All the Worlds' a stage... Photo: Andrea Papa
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Surphang Magazine
Magazine Editor: Stuart Gaston Contributing Photographers: Sean Evans, Andea Papa, Ben Reed, & Chuck@Surf-Shot.com Staff Photographer: Stuart Gaston
Send any photographic submissions for future issues of the magazine to: surphangmagazine@ymail.com
Cover Shot: Jordy Collins all covered up! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
Biarritz providing an impressive world stage! Photo: Ben Reed
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ThisIssue'sFeatures
The Pro Show
Champ Chats
Surphalosophy
Jordy Collins captained a fresh, young Team USA to 7th place success at the ISA Worlds so we spoke to this young inspiration.
No comeback would be complete without an exclusive interview with the ISA World Champ – so here's our chat with Jhony Corzo.
As one of the younger competitors Edoardo Papa talked to us about competing at world level and his thoughts on Olympic potential.
Captain America
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Jhony Be Good!
Papalympic Potential!
Kanoa Igarashi kicks into action at his homebreak of Huntington! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
Twenty 17 talent
FANTASTIC FOURS
No new issue would be complete We all like to get the most from without our usual round-up of our money so when buying a new upcoming talent – here's just wetsuit, look no further than the some of the best from the US. versatility of fantastic four threes.
YOUNG GUNS With surfing looking towards its first ever Olympic appearance, the groms are hungrier than ever to get in on all the action.
SURF CITY USA
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Welcome to
The Pro Show Captain America Photos: Sean Evans, Ben Reed, & Chuck@Surf-shot.com; Words: Stu Gaston
07 - SM Jordy Collins calls into a green room of glory! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheProShow
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Captain AMerica
09 - SM Jordy Collins kicking that tail round! Photo: Courtesy of ISA
TheProShow
Name: Jordy Collins Age: 18 Years surfing: 10 Where you live: Carlsbad, CA Sponsors: Chris Borst Surfboards, Hurley, Famous Surf Accesories, Futures, SurfRide Local break/s: Ponto Jetty Favourite surfer? Jon Jon and Kerzy Favourite place to surf? Pipe Favourite surf movie? Stranger Than Fiction Favourite surf trick? Barrel Favourite board? Anything by SM - 10 Chris Borst Designs
Captain AMerica What first got you into surfing? Going to the beach as a family and watching my dad surf. Who in surfing inspires you most? My peers When and how did you get sponsored by Hurley? That was in 7th grade. My dad met Rob Machado's room-mate at a business forum and it happened to come up in conversation. The next day, my dad received an email from the grom surf team manager there. What do you prefer then, free surfing or competitions and why? I like both for different reasons. I love the creativity from free surfing but I love the competititve aspects of contests as well.
11 - SM Jordy Collins' got it covered! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheProShow
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Captain AMerica
13 - SM Jordy Collins keeping success in his sights! Photo: Courtesy of ISA
TheProShow Now the past couple of years have seen you constantly upping your performance with making the final of the 2015 Quiksilver King of the Groms in Brazil and winning numerous championships amongst the highlights. So talk us through the highs and lows of one of those contests that lead to you earning one of your many titles? Last year at the ISA Juniors, I was in first place in my quarter final heat and I knew I ws going to reach the podium. Another competitor in that heat had just taken a wave but the judges didn't change the priority flags. On the next wave, I took off with him behind me and I ended up basically getting disqualified which was a huge dissapointment. I then channeled that energy into my next event which was the Costa Rica 3000. I kept making my heats and got a 5th place finish as a result which has springboarded me to the next level on the QS. And most recently, you've found yourself leading Team America into the ISA World Surf Championships as their Captain. So how did it feel taking on that role and being part of an upcoming and talented team heading into such a high-profile competition? That was such an amazing experience. We had such a young team and nobody gave us a shot. However, if any of us advancd one more round, we would have taken home a medal for sure. I loved the experience and enjoyed mentoring my younger team mates by having fun together and keeping them loose. I also felt a responsibility to set a good example for them and help them see the pitfalls that can come to people in our business.
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Captain AMerica
15 - SM Jordy Collins really kicking that tail high! Photo: Courtesy of ISA
TheProShow You had to overcome some solid surfing from your contenders, many of them being older and more experienced QS and even CT surfers. So did that add an extra level of pressure or do you see it as another opportunity to challenge and better your own surfing? Most defintitely. I have always loved surfing against older guys with surf reputations. I remember surfing in the ProAm at age 14 against Damian Hobgood and I really raised my game that day surfing against a CT competitior. Basically all heats are hard now. Anyone can beat anyone on any given day so you can't take anyone for granted. So how do you rate your surfing peers from around the world at the moment? Surfing is at such an elevated state. I think we have an amazing crop of kids coming out of the US right now. Kids from Austrailia are always good and the Brazilians will always be a force now. At the World Games, I couldn't believe how many great surfers there are from so many countries, many of which are land locked. And now, with quite an impressive competitive career already, which of them goes down as your best victory to date? Either the 5th at the Costa Rica 3000 or Runner Up at the Ron Jon QS in Florida.
“Basically all heats are hard now. Anyone can beat anyone on any given day so you can't take anyone for granted.� SM - 16
Captain AMerica
17 - SM Jordy Collins keeps up the tube time! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheProShow
Now you're from California but also spend time each year in Hawaii, meaning you get to surf top quality waves like Trestles and Pipeline on a regular basis! So how would you rate these spots? Lowers is such an incredibly playful wave where you can have so much fun and try new stuff. Pipe is my favorite wave and I love to get barreled. I also surfed Waimea a few times which is pretty heavy and makes my parents nervous. Where else around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf? Costa Rica, Nica, France, Portugal, Barbados, Mainland Mex, Brazil, and the Azores. And when and where has your best surf session been then? My favorite sessions are actually at home with all of my boys. But what's been the worst wipeout of your life? Definitetly at Pipe. That place is so heavy! So what about future plans for travelling? Where do you want to head to and surf? My parents have been to Tavi 3 times and have amazing photos so that has always been at the top of my list. I also want to surf Teahupoo. SM - 18
Captain AMerica
19 - SM Jordy Collins can't be kept down! Photo: Sean Evans/Courtesy of ISA
TheProShow
Now having surfed in the Worlds, what's next? What are your goals for the next few years? I want to finsh in the QS top 100 this year so I can qualify for the 10K events. Then that will help me realize my goal of getting on the CT. Finally, where do you see yourself in five to ten years time? Surfing in any way and enjoying the journey. In 10 years, I'm sure I will be married with a family so looking forward to teaching my groms to surf of course!
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Champ Chats Jhony Be Good! Photos: Sean Evans, Ben Reed, & Chuck@Surf-shot.com; Words: Stu Gaston
21 - SM Jhony Corzo keeping his A-Game on point! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
ChampChats No comeback would be complete without an exclusive interview with the new ISA World Champ – so let's chat with Jhony Corzo.
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Jhony Be Good!
23 - SM Jhony Corzo caning a Biarritz lefthander with his backhand attack! Photo: Sean Evans/Courtesy of ISA
ChampChats
Name: Jhony Corzo Age: 18 years Years surfing: 12 Where you live: Puerto Escondido Sponsors: Vissla, Vans, Monster Energy, Lost Surf Boards, Future Fins, Bubble Gum Wax Local break/s: Zicatela, La Punta Favourite surfer? Julian Wilson Favourite place to surf? Oaxaca Point breaks Favourite surf movie? Trilogy Favourite surf trick? Barrels and airs Favourite board? Lost Surf board, V2 SM - 24 grinder model 5'8
Jhony Be Good!
25 - SM Jhony Corzo carving up a solid righthander! Photo: Courtesy of Vissla
ChampChats
What first got you into surfing? My whole family surfs. My parents first started pushing me into waves when I was like 5-6 years old and my brother Angelo Lozano was a big inspiration that made me want to travel and compete like him on the WSL tour and Latin events around the world. Who in surfing inspires you most? My brothers, my surfing family and all the huge talents that have big dreams and goals to acheive. When and how did you pick up your sponsors like Vans and Vissla? I got Vissla when I got an 8th place finish on the ISA Junior Championship in Oceanside in 2015. Vans, I got them when I made some great results in Mexico like becoming National Champion a couple of times and I started to get some outstanding results. What do you prefer then, free surfing or competitions and why? I prefer competitions because it's something I have inside of me that I feel a lot of adrenaline and courage to surf in front of a crowd. It's something that makes me prove myself and also surfing with better talent than me, it makes me want to surf very competitively; it's just something I have in me that I like to compete and get results.
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Jhony Be Good!
27 - SM Jhony Corzo keeps a cool competition head on! Photo: Courtesy of ISA
ChampChats Now you've been performing really well on the competitive circuit recently with an 8th place finish at the ISA World Juniors in California, then a quarter finals finish at the WSL Vans Surf Open in Acapulco before reaching 3rd in the Surf Open League in Puerto Escondido last autumn. So you must have felt really good about your contest surfing as you started competing this year? Yes once I started this year with good results, it's something that gives me a lot of motivation to keep focusing on getting better results for sure. It's always good to start the year off with big results because it gives a lot of confidence for the rest of the year to know and have that motivation to achieve better results. I guess though that nothing compares to winning the ISA World Championships in Biarritz - that must have been a real highlight for you. Though when you started off in the event, how did you feel about your chances of winning? Really when I got to see who the competitors were, I saw it was not going to be an easy event especially competing against a couple of WCT surfers. I had that in mind but I knew I already have got some good results in the WSL events and had already taken down a few top seeds so that was a confidence booster I had in mind. I had new boards with me, my Dad came to the trip too so this was something that also gave me a lot of confidence knowing I had good supoort and equipment. Once we got there, I just wanted to get a better result than my 8th place finish on the Junior event, take it heat by heat and most importantly, I just wanted to have a good time in France with my team and friends. SM - 28
Jhony Be Good!
So talk us through the whole contest and the highs and lows that lead to you earning your championship title? The contest was super fun right from the beginning. At first they started running the event with the Womens' division for a couple days until it was through then the mens was on 3 days after. I started off losing my first heat and going into the only reperchage round that was Round 1. It was very disappointing for me losing in that first heat and not getting a good result for my team but I think it gave me a lot of confidence to try harder on that repecharge round and get back in the main event. The next day I had my heat coming for the requalifying round – I had great support from my team which was a big part of what helped me out a lot. The waves had dropped a lot so I was trying super hard not to lose again in those hard conditions. I had to surf a very smart heat and thankfully it went well and I made it back into the main event. In Round 2, staying calm and surfing smart competitive heats was what really helped me get through heats. Making it back into the main event gave me all the confidence and focus I needed knowing that I was back in with all the top competitors.
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Jhony Corzo's backhand attack in action! Photo: Ben Reed/Courtesy of ISA
ChampChats You had to overcome some solid surfing from those contenders, many of whom were much older and more experienced. So how did you find the level of surfing from so many top surfers from all around the world? Since I was little I started competing in Open Divisions competing with older guys and experienced surfers so I have earned that experience and confidence from surfing against older guys than me since couple years ago until now. Every surfer in the event was surfing super good. It was great to see all the talent there in Biarritz. I was sure of myself that I had a good backhand surfing since I surf every day at my home break at a left point break called La Punta so that made me feel on a good level knowing I had a really controlled backhand surfing. So which of them did you least want to be drawn up against in a heat and why? Jeremy Flores because he was surfing great the whole event. I knew he had so much experience being a top seed. Having his local crowd there and having all the crowd to his side was something that I knew was going to be hard to beat. Also he was getting some solid scores on every heat so I knew I was going to have to surf my best and do smart moves when I surfed against him. And now, surely being World Champion must go down as your best victory to date? Yes definitely it's going to be something I will never forget t for fhe rest of my life and something that I will look forward as a confidence booster for the rest of the year. SM - 30
Jhony Be Good!
31 - SM Jhony Corzo caning another lefthand lip! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
ChampChats
Now you're from Puerto Escondido in Mexico, surrounded by some really good surfing breaks. So how would you rate your local spots compared to others you've surfed around the world? I think I live in one of the best places in the world – we have warm water and good weather the whole year around. I'm surrounded with all kind of waves from barrelling waves to long right point breaks and ripable beach breaks. I think very few of the places I've been to have all these options and good weather all year around. So where else around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf? Hawaii, Costa Rica, Panama, El Salvador, France, East Coast, New Jersey, California. And out of all those, when and where has your best surf session been then? I think it was in December 2015 surfing Hawaii when I had a great session with my brother Jimel Corzo. We surfed perfect waves all day at Backyards only him and me sharing waves, getting tubed and enjoying the blue water and weather of Hawaii. But what's been the worst wipeout of your life? I think it's been at Zicatela getting caught with the lip from the top to the bottom and getting so worked under water for a while.
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Jhony Be Good!
33 - SM Jhony Corzo kicking out those fins! Photo: Courtesy of Vissla
ChampChats So what about future plans for travelling? Where do you still want to head to and surf? I want to travel competing on the WSL tour. I also want to do a free surf trip to Fiji really soon and get to enjoy that magic place with some blue water tubes and get to explore that country all around the island. And what about training? How do you keep on top of fitness and keep on pushing your surfing? I try to always improve my training like always trying to improve surfing in the mornings and doing some functional and power trainings at the gym every evening and I focus on training on the things I need most out of it to better my surifng. Now you're a champ then, what's next? What are your goals for the rest of this year? I have achieved a big goal in my career so now I am going to focus on being the first Mexican to qualify on the WCT tour. My goal for the rest of the year is to compete on 8 more WQS events of the WSL tour and try to finish in the top 150 to get enough points to compete and get a high seed next year for the 6 star events and slowly getting closer to my big goal of qualifying. Finally, where do you hope to see yourself in five to ten years time? I see myself in the next 2 years qualifying on the dream tour with 32 surfers in the world and in five years winning a World Title on that WSL tour. Thanks to all my family and all the people who support me to help me get there!
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Surphalosophy Papalympic Potential! Photos: Andrea Papa; Words: Stu Gaston
35 - SM Edoardo Papa packs a punch with an impressive backhand air reverse! Photo: Andrea Papa
surphalosophy As one of the younger competitors at the ISA World Championships, Edoardo Papa talked to us about competing at this level and his thoughts on Olympic potential.
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Papalympic Potential!
37 - SM Edoardo Papa always appreciates grabbing some air time! Photo: Andrea Papa
surphalosophy
So Edoardo, another year has passed since we last spoke to you and you've been as busy as ever! One of the highlights though must have been the opportunity to represent your country at the ISA World Championships in Biarritz that must have been an amazing experience for you? For sure it has been an amazing experience! But above all it has been an honour and a great opportunity to meet the best surfers worldwide plus a big reward for my gradual progression as a surfer.
“For sure it has been an amazing experience!� SM - 38
Papalympic Potential!
39 - SM Edoardo Papa packs a punch with his backhand attack too! Photo: Andrea Papa
surphalosophy So talk us through that experience and the highs and lows of the contest for you? The 2017 ISA World Surfing Games have definitely been a unique momento for a 16 year old young man like me, especially as part of the the Italian team and competing with other surfers that joined the WSL. Being there has been a great experience, but of course I would have preferred getting up to the quarter final! In any case, I took it as learning experience for my ongoing surfing career. You had to compete against some solid surfing from your contenders, many of them being older and more experienced QS and even CT surfers. So did that add an extra level of pressure or do you see it as another opportunity to challenge and better your own surfing? I definitely took it as an opportunity to challenge myself and better my own surfing. And with the contest being held at the famous beach break of Grande Plage in Biarritz, very close to where you spend your summers in Hossegor, did that knowledge of the area add an extra level of confidence to your surfing when taking on those older and more experienced surfers? Knowing the beach break was not really an advantage as really the most important knowledge that surfers should have is the ability to adapt to the different waves, as each heat or wave is different from one another
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Papalympic Potential! So who did you least want to be drawn up against in a heat and why? To be honest, in every competition, if you want to get to the very end, you will eventually need to surf against everyone and I believe that it's not important to focus on the level of your competitors but rather on the waves themselves. And now, does surfing in the ISA World Championships go down as your best contest experience to date? The ISA competition has definitely been massive for me, and for the moment, I think it has been the best experience for me for sure
41 - SM Edoardo Papa always picking the right time! Photo: Andrea Papa
surphalosophy
Now having surfed in the Worlds, what's next? What are your goals for the rest of this year? My next goals are mostly focused on improving the approach towards competitions and above all on selecting the good waves during the heat. A good surfing performance requires good waves, and this is the only way to show your potential. In the near future I will train in France with the Billabong Europe junior team, and then we will see if the Italian Federation will choose to send a junior team to the ISA World Junior Championships in Japan. So taking part in the WSL European Pro Juniors this year has helped you surf a few new spots recently - out of all those, when and where has your best surf session been then? At the moment I don’t really think about the spots themselves when training for the Pro Juniors but rather I am focused on trying to adapt my ability to handle the different waves’ conditions. In any case, the best session of this year that I will definitely remember has been in Lanzarote in January, where for the first time ever I surfed at El Quemao. Despite the quite harsh conditions, my performance was good and being there with the best local and European surfers was an amazing experience.
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Papalympic Potential!
So what about future plans for travelling? Have you any plans to travel further afield than Europe this coming year? For For the next few months, I am planning to spend my summer in France and a few weeks with the Billabong team. We are also considering to go to California, where I am supposed to shoot a clip for Carver and surfing in Trestles. For the next winter I will be as usual in Lanzarote, then for the spring we might go to Costa Rica and, if it works out with the budget, I will also go to Hawaii too. Of course, those will be all new experiences for me! 43 - SM Edoardo Papa right on point! Photo: Andrea Papa
surphalosophy
And of course, it's only 3 years now until surfing will be included in the Olympics in Japan for the first time so surely you must be training hard to hopefully secure yourself a place on the Italian surf team for that huge event? Being Being able to be part of the Olympic team would be a dream! But I am fully aware that it will be very hard, considering that there are great surfers like Leonardo Fioravanti, Angelo Bonomelli, Roberto d’Amico and Alessandro Piu, all older than me and with more experienced. But without doubt, I will give the maximum I can. Finally then, where do you hope to see yourself in five to ten years time? My ultimate goal is to achieve and express a complete form of surfing, in terms of strength, style and aerials. Considering that my dream is of course to get to the top level worldwide, the main aim for the next five years is to get to a good ranking position first in the Pro Juniors and then on the QS. In ten years, who knows I might be doing another interview with you for WSL. But for now, we need to go step by step!
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SURF CITY USA Photos: Chuck@Surf-shot.com; Words: Stu Gaston
45 - SM Davey Cathels kicking that tail right round! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots As one of the most esteemed surf competitons of the entire contest calendar is set to take place, we couldn't help but take a look at some of the world's top surfers lighting up the infamous break of Southside, Huntington Beach.
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SURF CITY USA
47 - SM Kanoa Igarashi keeping it real at his homebreak of Huntington! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
49 - SM Carlos Munoz making airs look easy! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
51 - SM Dylan Goodale grinding round a righthander! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
53 - SM Jesse Mendes moves effortlessly from section to air! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
55 - SM Kade Matson making the most of fun summer surf! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
57 - SM Kairi Noro notching up some Huntington know-how! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
59 - SM Kaito Ohashi whacks that lefthand lip! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
61 - SM Kei Kobayashi combining power and grace! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
63 - SM Kiron Jabour jamming round a righthander! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
65 - SM Nolan Rapoza nailing that lip bash! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
67 - SM Ryan Callinan caning one with his backhand! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
69 - SM Ryland Rubens rounding on that fin release! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
71 - SM Timothe Bisso brings out his backhand attack! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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SURF CITY USA
73 - SM Tyler Gunter giving it all he's got! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotSpots
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Twenty 17 talent Photos: Chuck@Surf-shot.com; Words: Stu Gaston
75 - SM Nolan Rapoza can't help nailing those top turns! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
No new issue would be complete without our usual round-up of upcoming talent – here's just some of the best from the US.
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Barron Mamiya
77 - SM Barron Mamiya made waves when he won the Sunset Pro Junior earlier this year! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Barron Mamiya
79 - SM Barron Mamiya may well have his eyes on more than just this prize! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Cole Houshmand
81 - SM Cole Houshmand just had a career toping result coming runner up in Acapulco! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Cole Houshmand
83 - SM Cole Houshmand will be aiming high for that win pretty soon! Photo: Courtesy of Vissla
HotShots
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Crosby Colapinto
85 - SM Crosby Colapinto just caned the competition to take out the Kolohe Andino Invitational! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Crosby Colapinto
87 - SM Not to mention that Crosby Colapinto is already a USA Champ! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Eithan Osborne
89 - SM Despite injuries, Eithan Osborne is always at the top of his game! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Eithan Osborne
91 - SM You'll be seeing a lot more air time from Eithan Osborne! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Jake Marshall
93 - SM Jake Marshall's really been making his mark recently! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Jake Marshall
95 - SM Jake Marshall will continue to make heads turn well into the future! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Kade Matson
97 - SM Kade Matson has also been making his mark on the contest scene! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Kade Matson
99 - SM Kade Matson made winning look easy at the RipCurl Gromsearch! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Kei Kobayashi
101 - SM Kei Kobayashi keeps impressing with his relentless drive to succeed! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Kei Kobayashi
103 - SM Kei Kobayashi keeps his eye on that prize which will soon be his for sure! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Nolan Rapoza
105 - SM Nolan Rapoza nailed it to become WSL North American Pro Junior Champion last year! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Nolan Rapoza
107 - SM Now Nolan Rapoza will be looking to reel in some even bigger results! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Ryland Rubens
109 - SM Ryland Rubens won the Ron Jon Vans Pro Junior earlier this year! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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Ryland Rubens
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Ryland Rubens will be looking to reel in the Pro Junior title this time around! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotShots
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FANTASTIC FOURS Photos: Chuck@Surf-shot.com & Stu Gaston; Words: Stu Gaston
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Jake Marshall making the moves in his Hurley Fusion! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
When having to fork out for new equipment, the modern twenty-first century surfer has but one thing in mind – getting the most for their money. With that in mind though, the versatility of the 4/3 wetsuit is often overlooked – the quality of neoprene is so high nowadays that a good 4/3 can see you comfortably through an average winter season yet at the same time they're just right for surfing right through the summer months too. So this time around we set out a plan for our man, Stan Flynn who's not only a talented upcoming surfer but also a beach lifeguard, to put three 4/3s through their paces – Hurley's Fusion, Xcel's Infiniti and Vissla's 7 Seas and find out what these 'fantastic fours' had to offer.
HotWots
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PHANTOM FUSION
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Jake Marshall puts his Hurley Fusion through its paces! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotWots
STYLE First up then, Hurley's Fusion 4/3 and not surprisingly, with a huge team of talent constantly putting it through its paces, this suit oozes quality. That much is obvious just by looking at it – with Hurley's hallmark logos and subtle double striping to the thigh, the style of this suit is spot on.
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PHANTOM FUSION Talking of oozing quality, Hurley's 4/3 Fusion wetsuit is packed full of a range of high end features. From anatomical seams for maximum flexibility and range of motion to abrasionresistant knee shields that provide lasting comfort, the designers and surfers at Hurley have managed to combine all a surfer's needs including the all important chest zip entry that reduces bulk and helps keep water out. This suit certainly is a 'fusion' of the finest features!
Super Stretch Flex Light Neoprene: Offers incredible levels of performance, flexibility and stretch in a super lightweight design whilst maintaining phenomenal levels of warmth
Contoured chest zip entry: Offers great freedom of movement thanks to the reduced amount of zip as well as a completely watertight zip that stops any water flush
Seam Free Paddle Zones: Reducing the amount of seams in critical performing areas helps to increase stretch and flex
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Stan Flynn dons the Hurley Fusion 4/3. Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots FUNCTIONALITY I'd always wanted to test one of the Hurley suits – they just look so stylish and this 4/3 Fusion certainly didn't disappoint. It had obviously been well thought through with a good range of features but nothing that wasn't needed. One thing I did notice though was that the chest zip entry was slightly awkward as the zip fastened from the neck flap inwards which could mean some tricky moments trying to get the zip to come together if doing it up with cold hands. That said, it was really good for not flushing which is absolute must during those cooler surfs!
Hollow Fiber Chest: Offers incredible amounts of warmth for the core area as well as wicking water to increase drying time
Seams: 100% SCS split neoprene taped seams
Supratex Knee Pads: Add not only comfort and protection, but also add durability to a key performance area
Pre-bent Legs And Engineered Embossed Back Knee: Help to increase freedom of movement thanks to the anatomical fit
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PHANTOM FUSION
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Jake Marshall making the most of the Fusion's flexibility! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotWots
COMFORT Getting the suit on was fairly straightforward (apart from the point with the zip fastening) and once you're in it, the Fusion is really comfortable and flexible – probably the comfiest of all three of the suits.
Made out of Hurley's Super Stretch Flex Light neoprene, the feel of the suit is silky smooth which makes it practically rub free and super comfy when you're out in the water. This really was the most comfortable suit I've ever worn – it felt really light and was still super warm.
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PHANTOM FUSION
121 - SM Stan Flynn finds plenty of time to fully test the Fusion! Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots
STRETCHABILITY As well as being so stretchy that it was really easy to get on and off, the Fusion maintained its flexibility out in the water too. Paddling out was pleasurable because it didn't feel like the suit was hindering your arm movements at all. Hurley have certainly made stretch and flexibility one of the key features of this suit!
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PHANTOM FUSION
123 - SM Stan Flynn flings round a lush lefthander in the Fusion! Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots
USABILITY Out in the water, the Fusion is anything but restrictive, allowing you to push your turns harder without even noticing it's on! It's so flexible with less seams which means that you're free to push your surfing further without being held back by the suit at all – the only slight drawback was that the seams did let in a little bit of water. That said, the flexibility of the suit made moving in the suit so much easier meaning you don't get worn out as quickly so you can stay in the water longer and surf as much as you can muster.
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INFINITI & BEYOND
125 - SM Stan Flynn flicks one off the top testing out Xcel's Infiniti 4/3! Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots
STYLE Next in the line up, and certainly no wetsuit review would be a worthy read without it, is Xcel's 4/3 Infiniti Comp, awarded Wetsuit of the Year 2017 and on first impressions, it's no wonder why. Absolutely capturing the classic dark wetsuit look, Xcel's simple yet striking logos add enough colour to keep the suit looking classy.
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INFINITI & BEYOND So what qualities help to achieve wetsuit of the year? Well, the ultra-popular Infiniti Comp TDC has more features than you can shake a stick at, including Xcel's exclusive Thermo Dry Celliant, the warmest wetsuit lining ever. TDC Thermo Dry Celliant Low Pile Fast drying, lightweight, and naturally hydrophobic, TDC is Xcel's warmest wetsuit lining ever. TDC's clinically proven Smart Fiber Technology converts your body heat into infrared energy for maximum warmth, increased endurance, faster recovery, and enhanced overall athletic performance. The infared printed low pile TDC delivers the ideal balance of warmth and flexibility. In the Infiniti Comp, TDC is featured in an infrared print low pile from the upper chest all the way down to the ankles. X2 Front Entry System A watertight front entry system with a front zipper angled along the upper chest. The zipper flap is attached at the right shoulder to keep more water out. The inner Crossover Neck Entry features overlapping panels that stretch to allow extra wide, stepin-through-the-neck entry. Magnetic Zip Closure Innovative, quick release zipper closure features double magnets on the zipper pull tab and attached zipper flap that securely lock the zipper in place, for easier and quicker release than traditional snap locks.
127 - SM Stan Flynn suits up in Xcel's Infiniti 4/3! Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots High Performance Comp Design Engineered large, seamless body panel maximizes core range of motion. Available exclusively in the Infiniti Comp series wetsuits. Less Seam = More Stretch Smarter product design means minimizing seams to maximize stretch. Any seams used are always pre-bent and contoured for a truly engineered fit. V Foam The most lightweight, premium foam available; significantly lighter, stretchier, and softer than standard foams. UltraStretch Neoprene Comfortable, lightweight neoprene with softer foam and a tighter weave textile for less water absorption, better durability, and maximum stretch. Thermo Dry Seam Tape This all-way stretch, lightweight, durable interior seam tape creates an even better seal that keeps warmth in and water out. The tape is either infrared patterned (products with TDC) or yellow (non-TDC products). Inner NexSkin Seals A thin band of liquid neoprene ("NexSkin") in the inner wrists and/or ankles forms an excellent seal and helps minimize flushing. Back Knee Flex Grooves Behind-the-knee cutouts for maximum flexibility. DuraFlex Knee Panels Comfortable, durable knee panels that stretch with you.
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INFINITI & BEYOND
129 - SM Kevin Schulz puts Xcel's Infiniti through its paces! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotWots
FUNCTIONALITY The Infiniti Comp was packed full of handy features and one of them was especially ingenious – the use of a magnetic clip rather than the typical snap lock on the chest zip closure was a much easier way to get in and out.
COMFORT As well as this zip closure system, the suit was easy to get on and off and was a pretty good fit once on, giving a pretty comfortable feel over all. Made out of Xcel's UltraStretch neoprene with the exclusive Thermal Dry Celliant lining, the suit didn't feel like it let in any water at all and really was the warmest suit of the three that I tested. SM - 130
INFINITI & BEYOND
Flynn throws out those fins in Xcel's Infiniti! 131 - SM Stan Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots
STRETCHABILITY Despite its added warmth and the fact that this Infiniti Comp was indeed a good fit, the suit didn't feel quite as stretchy as the other suits. Whether this is as a result of the infrared printed low pile that runs pretty much throughout the entire lining of the suit, it's difficult to say but certainly it's still a fairly flexible suit in comparison to previous suits I've worn over the years!
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INFINITI & BEYOND
Flynn fully vert to Infiniti and beyond! 133 - SM Stan Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots
USABILITY The Infiniti Comp really does benefit from its unique design of the large front and back ''comp''(etition) ready panel that has zero seams from the upper chest to the knees, made especially to provide for a maximum range of motion and it certainly did feel fairly flexible whipping through many a backhand snap. That coupled with its added warmth and you could happily use this suit whatever the weather or conditions right through the year – a good all round suit!
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VIVA LA VISSLA
Flynn flings out quite a fan for Vissla's 7 Seas! 135 - SM Stan Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots
STYLE Third and finally, it was time to surf Vissla's 7 Seas. Similar to the other two, the first thing you notice about the suit is that it's a classic black wetsuit with just a few subtle logos that are only visible close up. It's catchy and stylish at the same time in fact it gains style through its lack of colour with just a couple of colured stripes on the cuffs. Vissla have maintained this minimalist look throughout its entire range of suits which says a lot about the brand in allowing the quality of the suit to shine through and speak for itself.
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VIVA LA VISSLA Vissla's tag line for their 7 Seas suit, 'everything you need in a wetsuit, nothing you don't,' really does capture the brand's intention to strip away the irrelevant knick-knacks and design a suit to give you what you need - warmth in the ocean. So based on the prenise less is more, the 7 Seas features super stretch light neoprene, sealed seams, quick dry lining, a superb tailored fit, and a minimal bulk chest-zip closure system resulting in a top of the line wetsuit at an approachable price without all the marketing gimmicks.
WARMTH & STRETCH -100% Super Stretch light neoprene - lighter, warmer, softer, stretchier, easier to put on and take off, and allows for more freedom of movement FIT -Tailored fit - anatomically correct engineered body lines allow for unrestricted performance and warmth DURABLE & WATERTIGHT -Tripled glued, double blind stitched seams -Liquid taped cuff seals to prevent flushing -Vissla super stretch tape allows for maximum seam sealing while having unrestricted stretch and comfort Flynn ready to surf the 7 Seas! 137 - SM Stan Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots FUNCTIONALITY The Vissla 7 Seas wetsuit is packed with practical features. The chest zip entry prevented any flushing with its nifty water tight design. The seals on the cuffs and ankles were super tight so not only did that stop them rolling up but no water went up them at all either. The 100% super stretch, super light limestone based neoprene was really well balanced across the suit which coupled with the triple glued and double stitched seams added to the impressive level of features on this suit!
WARMTH & STRETCH -Thermal hollow fiber lining insulates heat and dries fast
DURABLE & WATERTIGHT -Chest-zip entry, minimal bulk with contoured water tight design -Knee pad - supratex abrasion resistant jersey for flexibility and strength
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VIVA LA VISSLA
Killeen caning a lefthand lip in his 7 Seas suit! 139 - SM Tyler Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
HotWots
COMFORT Vissla's 7 Seas wetsuit is for me the perfect fitting wetsuit. Because of it's anatomically correct engineered body lines, it fitted like you'd want a wetsuit to fit! As a result, it had minimal rub, no irritation and was just a really comfortable suit to wear. As well as that, the thermal hollow fibre lining kept it all warm while the inside of the chest panel supported your upper body really well but not so tight that it was uncomfortable. Indeed the upper body panels were so well fitting that it felt like the suit sat on you just right, so much so that there was no flush at all and as it barely absorbed much water either it never felt that heavy – all in all it has the warmth of a 5/4 coupled with the lightness of a 4/3 – practical yet comfortable!
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VIVA LA VISSLA
Flynn flies off the top testing out Vissla's 7 Seas to the max! 141 - SM Stan Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots
STRETCHABILITY The 7 Seas wetsuit is surprisingly stretchy, meaning it does fit like a glove. It's perfect for busting all those moves when you're out surfing, be it high performance aerials or setting your line for a solid lip bash, Because the suit is such a good fit, it doesn't let in any watar whatsoever so you can really push the limits of your surfing! It's really flexible but not so stretchy that it will lose its shape after a lot of use which once again would stand this suit apart from many others.
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VIVA LA VISSLA
Flynn flicking through some moves in Vissla's 7 Seas wetsuit! 143 - SM Stan Photo: Stu Gaston
HotWots
USABILITY On reflection, Vissla's 7 Seas wetsuit really is the perfect balance of comfort, flexibilty and practicality. It's really flexible in all the key places so you don't feel at all constrained when whacking out those moves on the board. Under the arms and on the shoulders, the suit was super flexible which really helped with paddling and I could have happily spent hours out in the surf without getting too tired. All in all the perfect fit of the suit coupled with its flexibility made this my suit of choice of the three that I tested!
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FANTASTIC FOURS
THE VERDICT Definitely the comfiest suit of the three, only let down by its rather awkward zip closure system and some slight seam leakage. Other than that, a high performing wetsuit from a huge company sponsoring many of the world's highest performing World Tour surfers. STYLE ●●●●●●●●○○ ●●●●●●●●○○
FUNCTIONALITY ●●●●●●○○○○ ●●●●●●○○○○
COMFORT ●●●●●●●●●○
STRETCHABILITY ●●●●●●●●●○ ●●●●●●●●●○
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USABILITY ●●●●●●●○○○ ●●●●●●●○○○
HotWots
THE VERDICT This was by far the warmest wetsuit I tested thanks to its special TDC lining exclusive to Xcel. It may have been not quite so stretchy but it was still a good fit and the magnetic zip closure was inspired! That alone would earn this suit wetsuit of the year in my opinion! STYLE ●●●●●●●●○○ ●●●●●●●●○○
FUNCTIONALITY ●●●●●●●●●○ ●●●●●●●●●○
COMFORT
THE VERDICT I found this suit was just what I want from a suit! The 7 Seas is great in the sense that it is tight fitting but for me that works as I spend so much time in a suit! I'd certainly be happy to spend many an hour in the 7 Seas wetsuit finally getting a few good waves for myself! STYLE ●●●●●●●●●○ ●●●●●●●●●○
FUNCTIONALITY ●●●●●●●●○○ ●●●●●●●●○○
COMFORT
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STRETCHABILITY
STRETCHABILITY
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USABILITY ●●●●●●●●●○ ●●●●●●●●●○
USABILITY ●●●●●●●●●○ ●●●●●●●●●○
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YOUNG GUNS Photos: Chuck@Surf-shot.com; Words: Stu Gaston
147 - SM Jett Schilling let's his talent shine through! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGoss With surfing looking towards its first ever Olympic appearance, the groms are hungrier than ever to get in on all the action.
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Jett Schilling
149 - SM Jett Schilling shows off his aerial antics! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGoss
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Levi Slawson
151 - SM Levi Slawson slaps that lefthand lip! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGoss
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Mick Davey
153 - SM Mick Davey drives round a lush lefthander! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGoss
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Nick Marshall
155 - SM Nick Marshall making the most of fun summer surf! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGoss
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Taro Watanabe
157 - SM Taro Watanabe proving he's anything but a wannabe! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGoss
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T H E G A L L E R Y
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Ted Schultz sees the section and flies! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGallery
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T H E G A L L E R Y
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Davey Cathels kicks out those fins! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGallery
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T H E G A L L E R Y
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Kei Kobayashi canes another Huntington high roller! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGallery
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T H E G A L L E R Y
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Kiron Jabour carves it up at the US Open! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGallery
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T H E G A L L E R Y
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Shaw Kobayashi kicks out plenty of spray! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com
TheGallery
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Surphang Magazine
Sykes sets those fins free! 169 - SM Shane Photo: Sean Evans/Courtesy of ISA
NextIssue Back from a six month sabbatical and it has to be said the surfing world is changing and not necessarily for the better. Thankfully there are still some surfers out there prepared to give their time to work collaboratively with traditional written media forms rather than seeking the immediacy of the social media driven world that now consumes our lives if we let it. So while those surfers still exist then we'll be back to help share their stories and continue to Support Upcoming Rider Potential Here And Now Globally. So keep SURPHANG!
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Thanks for reading the Fifty-first issue of
Surphang Magazine
Sticking at it and you'll go far... Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com