Three Stories That Shaped the Surf World This Week
Grab your coffee and settle in – this week delivered some serious stoke! From jaw-dropping big wave sessions to once-in-a-lifetime lineup encounters and the growing midlength movement, here are the moments that got our crew buzzing.
Let's kick things off at Mavericks, where a year ago, surfers witnessed the biggest day in recorded history. Luca Padua and Evan Paterakis just dropped a raw, honest breakdown of that epic session. We're talking the intense build-up, the nerve-wracking responsibility of towing a close friend into a wave of a lifetime, and the hard truths about what followed – the decisions, the mistakes, and the valuable lessons learned. This isn't just highlight reels; it's the real story behind the madness. You can watch the full breakdown right here on Surf News Network.
Now, picture this: you're catching a wave, and suddenly, a massive gray whale glides right through the lineup. That's exactly what happened to surfers in Los Angeles County this past Saturday. Photographer Dominik Granados captured incredible aerial footage showing the whale passing between surfers and the shoreline in the South Bay. As Alisa Schulman-Janiger from the ACS-LA Gray Whale Census explained, while whale sightings happen, having one this close to the beach during migration is uncommon. It was a reminder of the wild magic that can show up unexpectedly in our own backyard. You can see the stunning footage over at USA Today.
Finally, let's talk about what's under our feet. Tracks Magazine is diving into the midlength revolution, and it's clear this isn't just a fad. These versatile boards, typically 7-8 feet, are blending the glide of a longboard with the maneuverability of a shortboard, offering surfers a new way to approach waves. It's a shift towards a more relaxed, stylish ride that's resonating everywhere. As Tracks points out, this trend reflects a deeper evolution in how we connect with the ocean. Read more about why the midlength is here to stay on their site.
Whether you're chasing giants, sharing the lineup with giants of the sea, or finding new joy on a different board shape, these stories remind us why we love surfing. Stay stoked, and keep an eye out for what the ocean brings next!