The Future of Surfing is Family, Exploration, and Untapped Waves
Forget the jersey. Forget the points race. John John Florence’s current path – charting his own course through the South Pacific with his wife and son – isn’t a break from professional surfing; it’s a glimpse into its potential future. A future where the relentless demands of the Championship Tour are balanced, or even superseded, by the allure of discovering uncrowded waves and a more fulfilling lifestyle. This isn’t about retirement; it’s about redefining what it means to be a professional surfer in the 21st century.
Beyond the CT Grind: A Shift in Priorities
Florence’s recent Instagram post – a mesmerizing clip of him effortlessly navigating a powerful, Cloudbreak-esque barrel – sparked immediate conversation. The irony of finding such a perfect wave while the WSL Finals concluded nearby wasn’t lost on fans. But the real story isn’t about where he wasn’t, but where he is: actively seeking out and sharing the joy of wave discovery. This resonates with a growing sentiment within the surfing community. The traditional CT model, while showcasing incredible athleticism, can feel increasingly disconnected from the core spirit of surfing – the pursuit of unique experiences and connection with the ocean.
Mark Healey’s succinct comment – “What it’s all about!” – perfectly encapsulates this shift. It’s a validation of a lifestyle choice that prioritizes quality of life and the freedom to explore. This isn’t a new concept, but seeing a three-time world champion actively embrace it carries significant weight.
The Rise of the “Wave Hunter”
Florence’s journey isn’t just about finding good waves; it’s about the methodology. He’s leveraging his experience, intuition, and increasingly, likely, advanced oceanographic data to pinpoint previously unknown or under-explored breaks. As he explained, “This wave had so many faces to it…It’s a small kink in the reef where you wouldn’t expect a wave to be when you look at charts.” This highlights a growing trend: the professionalization of wave hunting.
This trend is fueled by several factors:
- Accessibility of Data: Improved satellite imagery, wave forecasting models, and even publicly available bathymetric data are empowering surfers to identify potential breaks.
- Boat Ownership & Mobility: The ability to travel independently and access remote locations is crucial. Florence’s sailing trip, documented previously by The Inertia, exemplifies this.
- Social Media & Sharing: While Florence keeps the exact location of his latest find close to the vest, the sharing of surf clips and discoveries inspires others to explore.
The Untapped Potential of the South Pacific
The South Pacific, with its vastness and complex reef systems, represents a frontier for wave discovery. While iconic breaks like Cloudbreak and Teahupo’o are well-known, countless other waves remain hidden, waiting to be found. Florence’s exploration suggests that the region holds a wealth of untapped potential, offering a sustainable alternative to the increasingly crowded lineups of established surf destinations.
Implications for Surf Tourism & Local Economies
The discovery of new waves isn’t without its implications. Increased surf tourism can bring economic benefits to local communities, but it also carries the risk of environmental damage and cultural disruption. Sustainable surf tourism practices – prioritizing respect for local cultures, minimizing environmental impact, and supporting local businesses – will be crucial to ensure that these discoveries benefit both surfers and the communities that host them. The challenge will be balancing the desire for exploration with the responsibility to protect these fragile ecosystems.
**John John Florence** and the Future of Surf
Florence’s current path isn’t a rejection of competitive surfing, but a re-evaluation of its priorities. It’s a demonstration that a fulfilling career in surfing doesn’t necessarily require chasing points on the CT. It’s about embracing the spirit of exploration, prioritizing family, and finding joy in the pursuit of perfect waves. This model, if adopted by other surfers, could reshape the landscape of the sport, fostering a more sustainable and fulfilling future for all. What are your predictions for the future of professional surfing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
