Pipeline Rivalry, Midwest Waves, and Desert Surf Patrols
Ever wondered what it takes to surf the world's craziest wave? Or how a freshwater lake can produce perfect barrels? Let's dive into the latest stories buzzing in the surf community – from Hawaii's legendary Pipeline to Michigan's unexpected gems and California's desert innovation.
First up, North Shore's epic showdown: Caitlin Simmers and Molly Picklum are rewriting women's surfing history at Pipeline. These two chargers have turned the world's heaviest wave into their personal playground, trading barrels and redefining what's possible for women in heavy surf. Their latest clash has everyone glued to their screens, proving that skill meets courage at the ocean's most intimidating break. You can catch the full drama straight from the World Surf League.
Meanwhile, 2,000 miles away, Midwest surfers experienced something straight out of a dream: shockingly perfect freshwater waves. After a massive gale-force storm swept across the Great Lakes, a small crew scored rare, glassy barrels that looked more like Tofino than Toledo. The secret? A perfect wind shift transforming chaotic windswell into clean, peeling waves. This freshwater miracle – complete with a 13-foot swell – shows surfers will chase waves anywhere when the stars align. The full story of this bizarre wonder will make you believe in magic.
And if you thought surfing was only an ocean thing, welcome to Palm Springs. The desert's surf park has become a hidden gem for coastal dwellers, and we caught up with Charlie Oldman from the surf patrol to get the inside scoop. Charlie's job is part lifeguard, part wave coach – reading surfers' abilities and placing them perfectly in the pool's 200 different settings. 'The hardest part is figuring out exactly where to place people,' Charlie explains. 'You need at least a basic understanding of surfing to help someone properly.' It's a unique surf culture brewing right in California's desert, proving good waves can come from anywhere. Peek behind the scenes over at Wave Pool Mag.
From the thunderous walls of Pipeline to the icy perfection of the Great Lakes and the innovative waves of the desert, the surf community keeps finding new ways to chase that stoke. Whether you're a photographer hunting for unique angles or a surfer hunting new challenges, these stories remind us why we all love the water.