Andy Irons: Fierce Competitor

•
•

Live Surf Cams

Surfline Live is a 24/7 glimpse into the world’s surf.

This stream moves through Surfline's global camera network, showing spots where it’s daylight and rated Fair or better.

What's The Deal With...?

Surf Lifestyle & Travel

What gear should I bring for a J-Bay mission?

Bring your good boards. You’ll want a high-performance shortboard for those clean, down-the-line walls—think a round-tail or squash tail for drive and flow. A step-up for bigger, heavier days is smart. Don’t forget a quality 3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuit, even in summer; the Benguela Current keeps things chilly. Booties can help on the rocky point. And pack a solid leash; you do not want a board snap in the middle of a long, pumping ride.

What’s the essential gear I need for a surfari?

Your board quiver is crucial: bring a reliable daily driver and a gun for heavy days. Don’t forget a quality roof rack and board bags for protection. Pack multiple suits—a full for cold dawnies and a springy for warmer sessions. Essentials include surf wax, a good leash, ding repair kit, sunscreen, and a solid first-aid kit. For the post-surf, pack a towel, fresh trunks, and a sense of adventure. Keep it simple, but be prepared for anything Mother Ocean throws at you.

How do I prepare for a trip to a heavy, reef-break spot?

Respect is key. First, get your paddle fitness and duck-dive dialed—you’ll need it. Study the break via videos and local forecasts to understand the take-off zone and currents. Invest in a proper reef booties and consider a helmet for shallow spots. Most importantly, be humble. Watch from the channel for a long time, let the locals get their waves, and don’t paddle out if it’s beyond your pay grade. Coming back in one piece is always the main priority.

Surfboard Evolution

How do the fins on these alternative shapes change the ride?

Fins are the engine, man! A single fin gives you that smooth, drawn-out, pivoty feel. Twin fins (like on a fish) are all about loose, skatey speed—they can feel a bit slidey but are crazy fast. A 2+1 setup (twin with a small trailer) adds a bit of control to that twin-fin speed. And quad fins (four fins) offer insane drive and hold on steeper faces. Swapping fins is the cheapest way to totally change your board’s personality.

Is a custom board only for pros and rippers?

No way, kook! That’s a total myth. In fact, a custom can be more beneficial for intermediate surfers. A good shaper can design a board that’s forgiving and helps you progress faster, while still suiting your local break. Whether you’re just finding your feet or trimming down the line, a board built for your weight and ability is a game-changer. It’s about maximizing your fun, not just your performance. Every surfer deserves that perfect fit.

What does a quad fin setup offer?

Quads are all about drive and power. Four fins—two on each rail—give you insane acceleration out of turns and unbelievable hold in steep, critical sections. They feel faster and more planted than a thruster, especially in hollow waves. You lose a tiny bit of that pivoty release, but you gain a rocket-like feeling under your feet. Great for powerful, carving turns and barrel hunting.