Surf Gear & Brands

It starts with observation. Sit and watch for a while—see who’s out, where the take-off zone is, and how the locals flow. Don’t just paddle straight to the peak. Give respect to get respect. A friendly nod goes a long way. Follow the lineup hierarchy, don’t drop in, and be humble. You’re a guest in their lineup. Showing that you understand the vibe is the key to scoring good waves and maybe even making a few new friends in the water.

Use the time! Work on your fitness: swim, yoga, and paddle training. Fix your dings, clean your gear, and organize your quiver. Study surf forecasts to understand patterns better. Watch classic films for inspiration. Connect with your crew—plan the next mission. Flat spells make you appreciate the next swell even more, and that anticipation is part of the whole beautiful cycle.

Waikiki Beach is ground zero—this was Duke’s home break where he learned and honed his craft. In California, check out Huntington Beach (he demo’d there) and Corona del Mar. Across the pond, Freshwater Beach in Sydney, Australia, is hallowed ground—that’s where he gave the first Aussie demo in 1915. Visiting these spots is a pilgrimage. Paddling out at Waikiki, especially, you can feel the history in the warm water and gentle rollers, imagining Duke sharing those same waves.

Paddling is a full-body symphony for Bethany. She uses a super powerful, deep single-arm stroke, synced with a constant, strong flutter kick from her legs. This combo creates the propulsion needed to match the wave’s speed. Positioning is everything—she angles her take-off perfectly to minimize the number of strokes needed. It’s a testament to her incredible fitness and wave knowledge, turning what seems impossible into a smooth, efficient glide into the green room.