Scotland’s north coast has been dishing up some heavy slab action over the last couple of years as a new breed of pioneers and locals take on what were previously thought unridable waves. Add to this the jewels of Brimms Ness and Thurso East and you have an exciting surf destination. But it ain’t all plain sailing. Freezing temperatures and frequent storms make surfing here a challenge. We find out what it takes to be a local, and why visitors make the long haul north.
The man who fell to earth
Life couldn’t have been better for Russ Mullins a few years ago. Sponsored up, and with a few hefty sessions that opened up Bagpipes and the first shots of Moroccan slabs that were carving him a rep as a charger. But then came a hideous accident that almost took his life. After two years he’s back, with a few nuts and bolts holding him together. He thought it was time to set the record straight about life, surfing and the fateful day when it all went horribly wrong.
indo: How deep do you want to go?
Indo has long lured surfers of the globe to its pristine reefs and remote islands. Although the tracks to places like Bali, Lakey Peak and Nias are well beaten these days, it still pays to know it’s a third world country.
Tahitian dream
A last-minute dash for Tahiti by Fergal Smith, Tom Lowe and Mickey Smith causes mayhem in the CARVE office as deadlines are trashed and internet connections tested to their full to bring the fresh meat to you in record time. The lads scored the best paddle-in swell for three years, but on the downside Lowey got smashed by Laird’s SUP. Pleasure and pain are never too far apart in Polynesia.
Fish, eggs, longboards…
We love boards. All boards. These days there are so many to choose from and the retro movement has turned into a full free-for-all. Here’s a round-up of this season’s shiniest with some hints and tips on finding the best for a whole lot of summer fun.
