Justine Dupont, MANERA’s most daring waterwoman and the best woman big wave surfer in the world, will be honored as Waterperson of the Year at the 34th Annual Waterman’s Ball, the surf industry’s most-anticipated annual social event organized by the Surf Industry Members Association (SIMA).
Justine has been surfing big waves for more than 10 years and knows very well that adventure is always around the corner in this sport governed by swells and the ocean. But even in her wildest dreams, she could not have imagined the season she would have this year.
From Cortes Bank to the mythical Eddie Aikau to her beloved Nazaré, Justine has scored some unforgettable and legendary waves this year, always looking to challenge and better herself.
Invariably positive, humble, and down-to-earth, she has been a pillar and a true inspiration on our team.
Waterman’s benefits the SIMA Environmental Fund, a charitable foundation that awards grants to organizations dedicated to ocean conservation. In addition to fundraising, the industry comes together each year to celebrate and honor some of the leading characters and key figures in surfing and ocean environmentalism.
Our love story with salt water often begins in childhood.
MANERA’s main goal has always been to create products for everyone to enjoy the ocean. So, we are proud to now launch our GROMS wetsuit line, dedicated to the younger generation.
Available in 3.2, 4.3 and 5.3, our Seafarer GROMS wetsuits use the exact same materials and technologies as our adult range, all paired with MANERA’s renowned 3D fit. Warmth, comfort and durability; it’s all there.
We made no compromise so our youngsters can tackle the elements and grow their passion for our favorite sports.
The Manera team is stoked on our latest signage install up at Relic Surf Shop! Manera value’s these opportunities to work with our dealers to enhance the customer experience and tell our story. Below you have local cold water surfer and Manera athlete, Pete Devrise ripping his local spots in his MAGMA 5.4.3!
Relic Surf Shop in Ucluelet, British Columbia, was established by Mike and Nicole Bray, who initially operated a retail shop and guesthouse in the early 2000s. Recognizing the opportunity to provide year-round surf rentals and lessons along with surf accessories, they started offering these services through their Inn. In 2008, the Brays joined forces with their long-time friend Derek Hale, who brought valuable experience in the Surf, Skate, and Snowboard industry. Together, they formed Relic Surf Shop (Ucluelet Surf Shop Inc) and officially opened its doors on the May long weekend of 2009, embarking on an exciting journey.
Relic Surf Shop takes pride in its unique mission, evident from the moment visitors step inside. With two families at the helm, the shop is committed to fostering a family-friendly, enjoyable, and knowledgeable environment. They understand that creating a workplace where their staff thrives is crucial for their success and building customer loyalty. Relic aims to provide exceptional service, establishing long-term relationships with customers who can trust their guidance and support. They offer quality products at competitive prices, always on the lookout for great deals. Additionally, Relic Surf Shop is deeply committed to giving back to the community through volunteer work, donations, organizing events, and raising funds for various community projects. It is their dedication to community involvement that truly makes them the “Community’s Surf Shop.”
Kyan Yang sets himself apart not only by his smooth style and effortless surf, but also by his colorful and fun boards. Hungry to make his mark, he loves to compete and is already a USA junior national team member.
“I originally started skateboarding at a young age and was very passionate about that. Then, I took up surfing because my friends were joining the middle school’s surf club. Slowly, it became more about surfing and less about skateboarding. Now, all I do is surf.” – Kyan Yang
There is no surf in Sweden, or so they say. Yet, Stockholm-native Tim Latte has forged his own path. Cold never gets old. Deeply charmed by the wintery waves and the vast immensity of the extraordinary Arctic coastlines, he is forever chasing after unexplored and remote spots around Scandinavia. Up there, each wave is rare and precious, and each session brings amplified emotions.
Often surrounded by rugged, snow-capped mountains and freezing waters, Tim knows that very few get to experience such ethereal settings. Now the epitome of cold-water surfing, he feels privileged to be able to connect on such a unique, profound, and raw level with nature.
HOMESPOT: Torö Stenstrand, Sweden FAVORITE MOVE: Can be a take-off, bottom turn or an air. Anything that feels good! DREAM WAVE: Anywhere where it’s pumping, or the waves have a good shape! I’m not too fussy. 3 REASONS TO GO SURFING: It’s hard to find 3 reasons to go surfing when surfing itself is such a unique experience and feeling – gliding on water just going with the flow in a forever changing environment is mind-blowing. Surfing is just half of the experience for me. The adventure aspect is just as rad; you get to spend time outdoors and visit so many places that you probably would never have seen otherwise. INSPIRATION: Anyone who puts everything into their passion in a positive way, I guess. FAVORITE MEAL: I will never turn down Mexican food!
“ Surfing is just half of the experience for me. ”
Can you tell us a bit more about your passion for surfing?
Surfing and its lifestyle is a huge part of my daily life as it has given me so many experiences both in and out of the water. The people I’ve met, the cultures I’ve experienced, places seen, and my forever love for nature.
You just won the lottery, what would you do first?
I would buy a proper van and roam the Nordic and Baltic coasts for waves for some time. I would also like to help fund and invest in companies and organizations that are green and innovative.
Next destination?
Not sure; swells come and go pretty quick up here. I’m pretty keen on heading back up to Lofoten on a good swell and also paying you guys a visit at the Manera office.
“ …Gliding on water just going with the flow in a forever changing environment is mind-blowing. “
What’s the most amazing thing you’ve experienced?
There have been so many unique experiences over the years, but I think my first trip to Iceland in 2016 was exceptional. A friend and I booked our tickets two days before heading there and we surfed empty waves and slept in a tent for ten days with northern lights dancing above us most nights.
What are you doing during a day without wave?
You will find me working in front of the computer and constantly checking Google Earth and weather charts. Like everyone else, planning the next mission!
