Surf Culture & Community

After a personal tragedy, Tomson channeled his energy into “The Code: The Power of ’I Will’.“ It’s a simple but powerful set of 12 statements for living with intention, like “I will never turn my back on the ocean” or “I will always paddle back out.“ It’s not just about surfing; it’s a life philosophy about commitment, resilience, and positive attitude. He shares it with groms and CEOs alike, using surfing as a metaphor for overcoming life’s wipeouts and catching your wave.

Duke was a Hawaiian legend, an Olympic swimmer who spread stoke globally. In the early 1900s, he performed wave-riding exhibitions in places like California and Australia, essentially introducing stand-up surfing to the world. His iconic image—riding a massive, heavy wooden board with pure grace—cemented surfing as a noble pursuit. He embodied the aloha spirit, making him not just surfing’s ambassador, but its soul. Every time you paddle out, you’re sharing waves with the Duke’s legacy.

Don’t skimp here, bro. A good leash is your lifeline to your board, preventing a dangerous swim and protecting others in the lineup. Key things: match the cord length to your board size, get a solid swivel to prevent tangling, and check the cuff for comfort. A thicker, 7mm+ cord is best for bigger, more powerful surf. It’s a simple piece of gear, but a snapped leash on a big day is a surefire way to ruin a session.

Without legal access points, our beloved spots become impossible to reach. It’s about preserving the right to enjoy public trust resources—the shoreline and waves. Fighting for access ensures that breaks aren’t locked away by private development, keeping the spirit of surfing open and free for everyone.