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book reviews
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Big Blue Surf Guide – Spain
This is the only English language surf guide entirely dedicated to Spain, and it certainly deals with its chosen subject area in great depth. Pretty much every possible spot is divulged in some applaudable detail with the best state of tide, ideal swell and wind direction are all frequently discussed.
However the guide does lack the clear pictorial detail which the Stormrider guide employs so well, instead Big Blue Surf Guide to Spain uses running prose to describe the surf zones providing plenty of information, just not in quite such a user friendly manner.
Considering the number of terrific waves and photographers that Spain has to offer it’s a little surprising to see that some of the pictures aren’t quite as spellbinding as one might expect. But that’s not to say that there aren’t more than enough photos to get you motivated. Better, more detailed maps with the specific spots marked on would see future issues of this book being made utterly indispensable.
But this is more than just a surf guide as it shares many similarities with a more generic travel guide. Each surf zone and featured area has specific and comprehensive coverage of local banks, post offices, doctors, transport links, dining and accommodation. The history and culture of local regions are also discussed as are must-see attractions and events. This new book serves the same purpose as both a Rough Guide and a surf guide, and because of its superb practical qualities it’ll definitely be one of the first things to be packed into my bag during my next trip to Spain.
£16.99 + p&p
Buy it now >>
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Pipe Dreams
This autobiographical story of Kelly Slater, chronicles the life of the world’s greatest competitive surfer, and in doing so it gives a fascinating insight into the mind of one of the sport’s most successful athletes.
The book starts with Slater’s formative years spent around Cocoa beach, details a vast array of situations in which he has channelled his mental state into a winning psyche throughout his successful world title campaigns and shows glimpses into Slater’s private life. Pip Dreams is a compelling read for any surfer who has grown up during the reign of this mighty champion.
£18.99 + p&p
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Occy
If there was one story that captivated the surfing world in the past decade, it was the resurrection of Mark Occhilupo. Occy launched himself on the world tour in 1983 and over the decade rose through the ranks to a top three place. But then in the early ‘90’s Occy dropped out and spent three years in a surfing wilderness where his ranking plummetted to 490 and his weight ballooned to 111kg. Then in a spectacular fashion Occy made a comeback. He got into top shape and returned to his spiritual home — the waves. In 1997 he finished runner-up in the world title race behind Kelly Slater, over the next two years he bagged a swag of tour victories. Then in 1999 he finally clinched the elusive crown and became the last surfing champion of the twentieth century.
A Surfer’s Year picks up where Occy left off in Rio, following the day-by-day highs and lows of life on the World Championship Tour and Occy’s all-out effort to successfully defend his title. Occy has recorded a vivid account of what it’s like to get to the top and stay there.
£14.99 + p&p
Buy it now >> |


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Surfers
A line-up of surfing’s most inspirational characters. In Surfers former professional surfer and Tracks writer Matt Griggs gives an insider’s view of a line up of surfing’s most interesting and unique characters. At turns funny and sad but always inspiring. Have breakfast with CJ Hobgood, enjoy a beer with Trent Munro, spend a weekend with Occy, get inside the creative mind of Oscar Wright, wonder at Taj Burrow’s legendary prowess with the ladies, survive a near-death experience at G-Land with Luke Egan and much, much, more.
Featuring Kelly Slater, Occy, Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson, Taj Burrow, Koby Abberton, David Rastovich, CJ Hobgood, Luke Egan, Layne Beachley, Maz Quin and Trent Munro.
£14.99 + p&p
Buy it now >> |


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The Way of the Surfer
Kampion’s latest masterpiece is a beutiful photo rich hard back exploring surfing’s heritage and spiritual meaning. In a superb writing style accompanied by bright illustrations Kampion confronts the deeper meaning of the surfing experience, expressed through interviews with the more articulate members of ‘the tribe’. From Woody Brown, through John Severson and Gerry Lopez (‘The Buddha in the barrel’) to Lisa Andersen and Titus Kinimaka.
Drew has no qualms about confronting taboos in surfing and quite happily gives a vivid account of Nat Young’s recent beating from Michael Hutchinson at Angourie. Kampion wants us to respect the magnificent legacy of aloha spirit which we have inherited, and in doing so he has created yet another fascinating book. Be enlightened!
£22.50 + p&p
Buy it now >> |


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The Storm Rider Guide: Europe
The third and latest Stormrider Guide Europe is the biggest yet: 288 pages in full colour with new destinations and new photos, fully updated text and illustrated with 70 maps and 500 photos.
RRP £24.94. Carve online price £22.95 + p&p
Also available:
The Storm Rider Guide: North America
£24.95 + p&p
The World Stormrider Guide RRP £24.94. Carve online price £22.95 + p&p
Buy it now >>
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Surfer's Start-Up
A comprehensive handbook which covers the basics of surfing gear, conditions, safety, etiquette, technique and history.
£9.00 + p&p
Also available:
Longboarder's Start Up
Takes you from the basic skills through to classic nose-riding and progressive manoeuvres. Written in conjunction with Stewart Surfboards.
£9.00 + p&p
Buy it now >>
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Wavefinder Guide UK & Ireland
This handy pocket-sized guide measuring only 12cm by 8.5cm is perfect for slipping into the glove compartment. Dozens of spots are covered, giving info on access ideal conditions, wind, swell direction and tide. With black and white ptotos and maps, this is no glossy Stormriders Guide, but it's dead useful nevertheless.
£9.95
Also available:
Wavefinder Australia
Wavefinder USA and Hawaii
Wavefinder Indonesia
Buy it now >>
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The Ding Repair Scriptures
How to fix your board. Includes dings, slashes, fins and breaks.
A cult classic full of top tips.
£7.00 + p&p
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The Surfers Mind
By Richard Bennett
Based on over three years of sport science research, personal consultation and in depth psychological interviews with the world's best surfers by former ASP sport psychologist Richard Bennett, this book is the complete, practical guide to tuning your mind for optimal performance in surfing and in life.
£46.94 + p&p
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Surfboard
Fully illustrated instruction manual covering surfboard construction. Learn how to design, shape, glass and repair boards with detailed photos and illustrations.
£14.99 plus p&p
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Surf Science
Surf Science is the first book to talk in depth about the science of waves from a surfer’s point of view. You don’t need a scientific background to read it - just curiosity and a fascination for waves.
£18.50 plus p&p
Buy it now >> |

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