Waterman Applied Science Blog

Albee Layer in the Art of Waking Up, part two.

Joe — Wed, 09 May 2012 17:33:46 +0000

Intersection 2012 winner Albee Layer completing part two of the morning program.

Stay warm with X Cel wetsuits, eat chocolate donuts, drink lots of Joe and don’t forget to wear

your Watermans sunscreen. No go out and do this.

Albee Layer stars in the Art of Waking Up.

Joe — Wed, 09 May 2012 17:29:34 +0000

It all starts with a good cup of Joe. Getting there early to check the donut box is another good call.

Chocolate sprinkles can do a body wonders and Albee has his eyes on the last chocolate gem.

Co Exist with nature. Brad Ettinger compliments mother earth.

Joe — Tue, 08 May 2012 02:30:14 +0000

It’s nice when you don’t have to worry about anything but your game. Brad excels worry free.

Alex Gullett flies Watermans.

Joe — Tue, 08 May 2012 02:19:12 +0000

Alex Gullet is dialed in. Sponsored by Katin USA, Doc RX Surfboards, Katin surf shop and of course Watermans sunscreen, the sky is the limit and thats where Alex lives. Look for huge airs at a beach near you.

Watermans on the Brain

Admin — Mon, 07 May 2012 23:35:25 +0000

Freestyle Kayak specialist Elaine Campbell keeps her head in the game with Watermans sunscreen.

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San Clemente’s Ethan Carlston scores a nice full page in the new issue of Blisss magazine.

Joe — Sun, 06 May 2012 02:27:00 +0000

We are stoked to have Ethan aboard. Congrats Ethan.

Check out Watermans team rider Derek Peters in the new issue of Transworld Surf.

Joe — Sun, 06 May 2012 02:23:06 +0000

Derek Peter’s has been coming into his own over the last year. Garnishing high praise from his peers and sponsors, he now

has his sights set on the World Qualifying Tour. With the help of Quiksilver, Jacks, Stamps and Watermans, he seems well prepared

for that journey. We stand behind this amazing talent and look forward to more amazing photo’s from him and takes the tour apart.

Billy Hopkins Tahiti.

Joe — Sun, 06 May 2012 02:15:23 +0000

Billy’s Hopkins first wave at Teahupo was a tow in to this nice beast. I was swimming

in the channel and watched this thing just get bigger and bigger as the west bowl

collided with it. The wave spit so hard that I lost sight of Billy untill he poped up after the

spit just smiling ear to ear. This was a trip we both will never forget.

Ryan Carlson is protected.

Joe — Sun, 06 May 2012 01:33:20 +0000

Huge airs put you closer to the sun’s harmful rays. Ryan spends alot of time in the upper atmosphere’s and needs to be safe. We can dig it.

Nick Fowler lip tweek.

Joe — Thu, 03 May 2012 16:40:50 +0000

Nick Fowler stays warm with Analogue and protected by watermans. Nick is informed.

Congratulations to Nick Fowler on winning the 2012 Newport Harbor Classic last weekend.

Joe — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 07:02:48 +0000

Nick Fowler has been at it hard lately. Surfing every second he can, it’s starting to pay off. Look for great things from Nick in the near future. Watermans is proud to protect Nicks future.

2012 Hennessey’s Paddleboard Race Series Announced

Admin — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 02:38:44 +0000

2012 Hennessey’s Paddleboard Race Series Announced

Redondo Beach, CA, April 23, 2012:

For over 17 years Hennessey’s has been at the fore front of world paddleboard racing, bringing races to such places as Australia, Hawaii, Fiji, California, and Mexico. The 2012 Hennessey’s Series promises to one of the best yet, culminating with the 2012 Hennessy’s-WPA World Championships in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

2012 Event Schedule

May 25th , 2012 – Hennessey’s Pier to Pier (4 Miles) – Hermosa Beach, CA
June 2nd, 2012 – Hobie / Hennessey’s United States WPA – SUP & Paddleboard Championships – Doheny State Beach, CA
July 7th , 2012 – The South Bay Dozen – Redondo Beach, CA
November, 3 & 4th , 2012 – Hennessy’s-WPA World Championships – Palmilla Beach, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

“The Hennessey Race Series isn’t just a bunch of races to us; we truly love what we do. A side from the competition, each Hennessey event brings its own atmosphere that only a Hennessey event can, just ask around. We have been doing this for 17 years and we think that this year’s series may be one of the best yet.” according to Hennesseys’s Race Director Tim Ritter.

The 2012 Hennessey’s SUP and Paddleboard Race Series is presented by Hennessey’s Taverns, Hobie, Bacardi, Del Mar Development, Snell Real Estate, Ocean Minded, Stand Up Paddle Magazine, Waterman’s Applied Science, SUP Mexico, The Mexican Tourism Board, Bliss Events, H20 Audio, 02H Sarcoma Alliance, Bark, Futures Fins and Crislu Jewelers and the World Paddle Association. Athletes and spectators can visit sponsors on race day to check out the newest products and accessories the paddleboard industry has to offer.

Paddlers can qualify for the 2012 World Championship by participating in 2012 World Paddle Association sanctioned events by earning a spot into your respective regional championship, 12 National races, Hennessey’s-WPA U.S. Championships, 11 City Tour and top placing’s from the 2011 World and U.S. championships. You can find all the qualifying criteria on www.worldpaddleassociation.com along with more details on travel packages, board transportation and more on www.hennesseyspaddleboarding.com and www.worldpaddleassociation.com.

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Teddy Navarro. The Art of Protection.

Joe — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 17:17:10 +0000

Teddy Navarro setting up for glory. Closer to the sun, closer to nature.

Brad Ettinger, the art of protection.

Joe — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 05:51:12 +0000

Hurley rider Brad Ettinger pushes the limits of free surfing and his lifestyle demands the best. The art of surfing, the art of protection.

Waterman Ethan Carlston sets the fins free.

Joe — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 21:06:16 +0000

Lower Trestles was all time a few night ago and Watermans team rider Ethan Carlston was on it. Photo: Joe Foster

Patrice Chanzy

Admin — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 23:17:44 +0000

Charging Teahupoo and being on the world stage in the up and coming sport of SUP has led more than one athlete down the path of stuck-up assholedome. Fortunately, Patrice is a humble guy who knows his roots. His good hearted nature and effortless approach to one of the worlds most deadly waves has earned him well deserved respect. One thing is for certain, regardless of where he goes and what he does, Patrice will always be proud to call Tahiti home.

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paddleforhumanity@gmail.com

::FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:: The Stars come out in support of the 2012 Watermans Paddle for Humanity

Admin — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 22:32:43 +0000

Chuck Patterson, Connor Baxter, Jamie Mitchell and others join forces in support of the Paddle for Humanity

Orange County, CA – The world’s top paddlers have committed to compete in the first stop of 2012 Watermans Paddle for Humanity on April 28^th, in Dana Point, CA. Molokai-2-Oahu world champions Conner Baxter and Jamie Mitchell will be joined by elite athletes Chuck Patterson, Rob Rojas and Slater Trout in showing their support for the award winning philanthropic race series. Chuck Patterson is headlining Saturday morning’s event, and will be unveiling the “Chuck Patterson Signature Series Rally Race” – a unique format designed to challenge the skill, fitness and adaptability of each athlete.

You don’t have to wait until Saturday to meet this all-star lineup. Kona Brewing will be hosting a pre-party Friday night, April 27^th, at the Doheny Double-Tree. 10x World Champion and Battle of the Paddle Champion, Jamie Mitchell will preview his new movie, “Decade of Dominance” documenting his 10 consecutive Molokai 2 Oahu Paddleboard World Championship wins. Mitchell will be on hand to share his experiences and signing few autographs. Patterson, Baxter and Trout will also preview their movie “H2Indo”, along with a full screening of the 2011 Molokai 2 Oahu Paddleboard World Championship race featuring many of the athletes. The party starts at 5PM in the upstairs lounge.

“Decade of Dominance” and “H2Indo” will premier as part of the Newport Beach Film Festival on Saturday and Sunday night. For more information visit www.newportbeachfilmfest.com.

The 2012 Waterman’s Paddle for Humanity will consist of five stops: April 28^th in Dana Point, June 2 Deerfield Beach Florida, July 7^th Lake Tahoe, August 25^th Washington DC and Sept 15^th Austin Texas. Our stated goal is to raise $100,000 for our non-profit partners while raising awareness to their causes and introducing communities to the sports of Paddling.

For more information including dates, locations and registration visit www.paddleforhumanity.org.

Support the companies that support the sports you love: Kona Brewing Company, Ocean Mindedf, Futures Fins, SUP ATX/Lahui Kai Racing, Hobie Polarized, H2O Overdrive and Watermans Applied Science.

* The Paddle For Humanity is a sanctioned WPA event series. For more information visit www.worldpaddleassociation.com.

Media contact:

***

About the Paddle for Humanity:

The Watermans Applied Science Paddle for Humanity has raised more than $50,000USD for charity since its inception in 2009 and helped galvanize paddling communities across the country. The PFH is open to all paddle craft. For more info visit www.paddleforhumanity.org.

About Chuck Patterson:

Chuck Patterson is an inspiring person. He is 6’2” and weighs 220 pounds. He competes at the pro level in five different sports: stand up paddling, tow-in surfing, kite surfing, skiing and snowboarding. For more info visit chuckpattersonsports.com

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Tyler Newton is down.

Joe — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 19:05:02 +0000

The art of protection. Rob Rojas

Joe — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 22:55:19 +0000

Jenny trusts Watermans.

Joe — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 07:27:37 +0000

NICK FOWLER FROM NEWPORT BEACH GOING MENTAL.

Joe — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 23:44:09 +0000

Nathan Carvalho from Hawaii has been ripping the Orange County beach breaks apart.

Joe — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 06:36:06 +0000

A Decade of Dominance – Jamie Mitchell

Admin — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:12:59 +0000

The Waterman and his whip – the Molokai 2 Oahu World Championships. This is worth a look.

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Billy Hopkins ripping South Orange County this morning.

Joe — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 05:01:51 +0000

:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ::

Admin — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 23:58:29 +0000

Chase Kosterlitz joins Watermans Applied Science

The 14’ SUP World Champion looks forward to 2012 Season.

Orange County, CA – Chase Kosterlitz is no stranger to the world of competitive paddling. This standout East Coast racer looks to Watermans Applied Science to keep him protected during long hours of training in the Florida sunshine.

Chase knows Watermans is a brand and sunscreen he can trust. “I’m excited to work with a company that will help me stay protected when I’m out in the sun,” said Kosterlitz. “Between teaching lessons at Water Monkey, surfing, kiting and racing that is a pretty tall order.” Kosterlitz is recognized one of the worlds dominate paddlers in the 14’ class and plans to expand his influence through competition in Europe this summer.

Watermans Applied Science has been a prominent supporter of the sport of Standup Paddling and its athletes since 2007. The Watermans line of premium high-performance sun protection products are universally recognized as the most durable and effective protection program for paddling.

For more information visit watermanssunscreen.com

***

About the Paddle for Humanity:

Team FISHTRAX slays some bass in San Diego, California

Admin — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 18:50:04 +0000

Team FISHTRAX might have taken 2nd in the ‘Cabin Fever Reliever’ Nails Bay Bass tournament last month, but they came home with the most money, netting $2400 for a day on the water.

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Watermans ripstar Nick Fowler swooping in the OC earlier this morning.

Joe — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 01:31:59 +0000

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Chris Murnane

Admin — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 20:50:41 +0000

Haven’t heard of Chris yet? You will.

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Sunscreen misinformation spreads like Skin Cancer

Admin — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 19:10:42 +0000

Note: We did attempt to contact the magazine that ran this article, but all e-mails were returned and no available platform was provided to recieve feedback.

Dear Editor,

Please don’t take this as a brand pitch of any kind, rather a heads up. I am in this game because I am passionate about skin care and sun protection and it is with that in mind that I write you.

The article you guys are currently running on sunscreen, “Sunscreen 101 – the new rules,” is horribly misinformed. I would qualify this by saying that it is in fact potentially harmful to anyone that takes what it says seriously.

A few examples are listed below, but in no way encompass the breath of misinformation provided. They are simply the most blatant. I have quoted your article in italics.

SPF 15: 1/15 of the sun’s rays will reach your skin X Light Skin= 150 min before you burn
X Medium Skin= 250 min before you burn
X Dark Skin= 300 min before you burn

The above statement is not true. SPF15 allows for a person to be in the sun 15 x longer than without sunscreen before burning. The formula used above is making the assumption that a person with fair skin can stay in the sun for 10-minutes, medium skin 16:40-minutes, etc… There is no basis for this assumption. Everyone is different and location is a major factor, not to mention skin is usually gauged using a six-level scale known as the Fitzpatrik scale. More can be found on my website http://watermansappliedscience.com/html/Protection.html

Old Rule: SPF protects against UVB burn time only
New Rule: SPF protects against UVA and UVB protection

Not true. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is an indicator of UVB protection only. The use of the term “Broad Spectrum” has now been regulated to ensure a certain level of UVA protection is provided at minimum. However, that level can still vary from product to product as long as it meets the minimum requirement. Furthermore, products without proper UVA protection must mention the deficiency on their label and products that do qualify can claim to protect against skin cancer and advanced aging. All sunscreen regardless of UVA protection provided will still show a SPF rating on the label. Since UVA is a serious contributor to deadly melanoma and advanced aging I see this statement as potentially lethal and careless.

The New Rules
Sunscreens used to get away with only protecting against UVB rays, but now if it says “SPF,” they have to shield from both. Also, they can no longer say “waterproof,” “sweatproof,” or advertise an SPF rating higher than 50.

Again, the SPF related claim is a potentially deadly false statement. Products are not required to provide UVA protection and SPF indicates UVB protection only.

“Waterproof” and “sweatproof” have never been allowed. There was simply no regulation of their use prior to the new “rules” being put into place this past year. They have always been frowned upon by the FDA. Certain marketers simply ignored the guidelines without fear of retribution. There is now a process of regulation in place.

No rule currently on the books prohibits sunscreens over SPF50. This has been proposed, but no timeline is associated with making it a mandatory requirement. Some companies, like mine, will gladly follow recommendations and change their packaging accordingly. However, the last time something was proposed it took decades to finalize.

Look For:
• SPF 15+

This is true, but only as a minimum.

• The phrase “broad spectrum”

This is true; more so now then ever before.

• Sunblock: literally “blocks” the sun with zinc rather than absorbing into your skin

This is horribly inaccurate. In fact, the term “Sunblock” was specifically outlawed by the new monograph the author is referencing here. There is no such thing as “sunblock” and no brand can legally call itself “sunblock” once the new rules take effect in June. There never has been and never will be any direct link between a product that claims “sunblock” and the inclusion of Zinc Oxide. Most of the brands that claim “Sunblock” are less expensive brands that do not include Zinc or Titanium Dioxide in their formulas.

• Titanium Dioxide: In lab tests the rats who inhaled this chemical contracted cancer. Use zinc instead!

Where to start… First, Titanium is not a chemical, it is an inorganic mineral. Second, this is not relevant to sunscreen as the minerals are suspended in a lotion making them impossible to inhale during normal use. Third, zinc is also a mineral and will have the exact same effect if the same tests are preformed. Even on the nano particle level, neither Zinc or Titanium are absorbed into the skin or find their way into the wearer’s lungs and are safe for use. The Australian government has spent millions trying to put a stop to the misinformation that you have reiterated here, because they see this incorrect interpretation of the facts as a serious threat to the health of their citizens.

• Oxybenzone: When the sun hits this chemical, it causes a reaction that releases free radicals.

This is true of all organic chemical sunscreen ingredients. However, it is also true that inhaled oxygen is the #1 source of free radicals in the body, so going down this road is a slippery one at best. Bottom line, sunscreen is an OTC product, the definition of which states that the product’s benefits outweigh any potential harm. I strongly agree that using sunscreen is a much better option than getting burned. Sunburn is far more damaging than people think and outweighs the free-radical argument by a metric-ton.

The issue people take with Oxybenzone in particular is that it is a possible hormone disruptor, but that is another story.

I would be happy to qualify anything mentioned above with the proper sources if necessary. However, most can be found either in the new sunscreen monograph on the FDA site or a high school chemistry book.

Please feel free to call if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Watermans Applied Science

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Because getting burned sucks. Ethan Carlston from San Clemente perfecting his blow tails on this recent March swell.

Joe — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 04:11:15 +0000

Because getting burned sucks!

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Zane Schweitzer can surf

Admin — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 18:34:41 +0000

Zane and his crew represent a generation of water people who grew up with SUP. They don’t look at what they are doing as surfing on an SUP. They just do their thing and do it well.

Zane in Mexico.

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Water Freezes, but Chuck don’t care

Admin — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 18:24:09 +0000

Unofficial title: The return of Huck Splatterson

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Punta Sayulita Classic with Jenny Kalmbach

Admin — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 18:37:19 +0000

Hola!

Back from Mexico after a super fun week for the 3rd annual Punta Sayulita Longboard & SUP classic! It was by far one of the best events I have been to and I am looking forward to going back next year. The organizers & volunteers worked hard to make our stay memorable and went out of their way to make sure that each of us had everything we needed! The event included everything from SUP & longboard surfing to a technical elite SUP race, a 10k distance race & a 2.2k race.

I entered the SUP surfing competition as well as the elite and 10k races.

The elite race involved paddling in and out of the surf and around buoys and with a decent size swell running it made for an exciting race. Early on Candice was able to break apart from the rest of the girls by catching a set wave and riding it to shore, leaving the rest of us to battle it out for second. Talia and I went back and forth the entire race and it came down to the very final stretch. We both caught waves in to shore and hit the sand at the same time but I sprung off my board and sprinted as fast as I could up the beach managing to get 2nd by just a mere second!

I made it to the finals in the women’s SUP surf event but the swell had dropped considerably and by Sunday afternoon we were all struggling to make the most out of the not so ideal conditions! I was up against some steep competition and ended up placing 4th but I enjoyed every minute of being out there and even if the conditions weren’t all time, it’s not so bad when you get to surf with only 3 other people out! I also learned a lot; like there is such a thing as a wave limit and no, you’re not allowed to catch a wave before your heat….in case you were wondering!

I won the 10k race for the women but I have to admit that Candice and Talia abandoned me, deciding instead to compete in the longboard event (Candice) and go tandem kayaking (Talia)… looking back I think they knew what I was getting myself into! It was a challenging course, mostly upwind with side chop and coming back, there were very few runners but I still went out and gave it my all and I’m glad I did it!

As I said earlier, it was one of the best SUP events I have been too. The town of Sayulita is beautiful, the food was delicious, the people were so generous, helpful, friendly and wonderful. The Saturday night concert & Sunday night dinner awards party were all-time and it only emphasized how fortunate I am to be a part of such an awesome community. We are really lucky to be at the start of something so great. I had so much fun traveling and hanging out with so many good people. Thanks to Candice, Talia, Jen, Vanina, Chuck, Kai, Connor, Jim, Zane, Matt, Aaron, Riggs & Sean for so many great memories. Looking forward to seeing all you crazy fools again soon!!

A special thanks to Kevin, Jose Luis & the event organizers & volunteers who put in so much time & effort into making the event so special.

THANK YOU!
Jenny

Apparently, I have a lot of photos of me with my board but not so many action shots!! I’ll have to see if anyone else took photos and send them out as I get them! You can check out more at www.facebook.com/JennyKalmbachSUP

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Watermans Applied Science.

:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE::

Admin — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 20:18:18 +0000

Watermans Paddle for Humanity Announces Partnership with Navy SEAL Foundation for 2012 Series

March 9, 2012 – The Watermans Paddle for Humanity announced today that the Navy SEAL Foundation would be the “official” non-profit partner for the 2012 event series. This partnership would allow the Waterman’s Paddle for Humanity, its sponsors and participants to directly raise money on behalf of the race series for the Navy SEAL Foundation.

The Navy SEAL Foundation’s mission is to provide immediate and ongoing support and assistance to the Naval Special Warfare community and their families.

In light of recent events, the Paddle for Humanity executive directors overwhelmingly decided to dedicate this year’s series support to the organization that has done so much to help the families of the Naval Special Warfare community who have paid the greatest price of all for our freedoms.

“I have had the privilege and opportunity to work with the Navy SEAL Foundation over the last six years and in that time have gotten to know their Board of Directors, active duty members of that community and families that have been helped by the foundation directly”, said Rob Farrow, executive director of the PFH. “To be able to connect our event with their efforts is an honor for us.”

The 2012 Watermans Paddle for Humanity will consist of five events this year starting on April 28^th in Dana Point, CA. with additional series events on June 2 in Deerfield Beach Florida, July 7^th at Lake Tahoe, August 25^th in Washington, D.C. and Sept 15^th in Austin, Texas. Our stated goal is to raise $100,000 for our non-profit partners while raising awareness for their causes and introducing communities to the sport of Paddling.

Support the companies that support the sports you love: Kona Brewing Company, Ocean

Minded, Futures Fins, SUP ATX/Lahui Kai Racing , Hobie Polarized, H2O Overdrive and

For more information including dates, locations and registration visit www.paddleforhumanity.org.

* The Paddle For Humanity is a sanctioned WPA event series.

For more information visit: www.worldpaddleassociation.com.

Media contact: paddleforhumanity@gmail.com

***

About the Paddle for Humanity:

For more info visit www.paddleforhumanity.org.

About the Navy SEAL Foundation (www.navysealfoundation.org)

The Navy SEAL Foundation’s mission is to provide immediate and ongoing support and assistance to the Naval Special Warfare community and their families. Our mission was not created by war, but it has been made more important and more difficult as a result of it. Established to serve U.S. Navy SEALs, Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen, Naval Special Warfare (NSW) support personnel, and their families, the Navy SEAL Foundation offers critical support to Naval Special Warfare commands, active-duty personnel, their families, and veterans of NSW. As the duration and frequency of training and operational deployments continue, and the stress on the families and operators grows, this important community requires support today more than ever.

Derek Peters

Admin — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 21:01:23 +0000

Derek Peters is from Huntington Beach California and has been building a name for himself under the influence of Brett Simpson. So much so, that when we compared two blow tail turns side by side, the body positioning was almost identical. No wonder to, as Brett is Dereks favorite surfer. Derek has really been making a move on the Pro/Jr’s tour and will soon be ready to move up to the next level. Poised and polished with power and all the new school moves, Peters is soon going to showcase his smooth style and hungry attitude to the world. Watermans is proud to support the future of surfing.

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Everyone has a past

Admin — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 22:37:13 +0000

Everyone has a past, and many of us have parts we’d like to forget, like your high school prom, that time in Vegas with your friends or even frying your skin to a crisp on that trip to Mexico. Well today I was reminded that your past sticks with you.

As a sunscreen entrepreneur, I’m aware of the responsibility I have to myself to get regular checkups from a dermatologist. Thank goodness for that, because this week I received the news I had a basal cell carcinoma – a common type of skin cancer.

Wow. Even after all the damage I knowing did to myself as a youth it was still overwhelming when I was told I had cancer. Typically this type of skin cancer isn’t deadly, but if left untreated it has the ability to metastasize and be life threatening. Just hearing the word cancer is scary because you automatically think of its implications.

The lesson learned is we all have a past. Sooner or later it will catch up with you and if you haven’t been good to yourself, you’re likely to end up in my shoes… and right now those shoes are sore and keeping me out of the water for a few weeks.

Macon Brock

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Watermans Paddle for Humanity Adds Two Stops to National Series

Admin — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 15:22:30 +0000

:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE::

Watermans Paddle for Humanity Adds Two Stops to National Series

April 28 – September 15, 2012

March 2, 2012 – The Watermans Paddle for Humanity is building on four years of success by

expanding to five events in 2012. The award winning series will feature multiple events on both

coasts with stops in California, Florida, Washington D.C. and Texas – bringing coastal and inland

paddling communities together for a good cause.

The success of the three-stop 2011 series and increasing demand for quality events has

bolstered the Paddle for Humanities growth and united the paddling community. What was once

a single grass roots event on the sands of Dana Point has grown into a five stop series that has

connected paddlers with people in need in all parts of the world. In 2011 the Paddle for Humanity

was recognized by the paddling community and awarded the SUP Magazine “Philanthropic Event

of the Year” at the first annual SUP awards. The award highlighted the continuing efforts of the

series and its founders, its reach in the paddling community and its professionalism in the

execution of the events.

“[The Paddle for Humanity] has always been about creating an event that channels the posative

energy of the paddling community towards a good cause. The support for the event series from

the industry and the paddlers has been amazing,” says founder and race co-director, Pete

Stirling. “We are looking forward to continued growth in the coming years.”

In addition to two new stops, the Paddle for Humanity will be rolling out a new multi-race format

that feature events and activities for paddlers of all ages and skill levels.

For more information including dates, locations and registration visit www.paddleforhumanity.org.

Support the companies that support the sports you love: Kona Brewing Company, Ocean

Minded, Futures Fins, SUP ATX/Lahui Kai Racing, Hobie Polarized, H2O Overdrive and

Watermans Applied Science.

* The Paddle For Humanity is a sanctioned WPA event series. For more information visit

www.worldpaddleassociation.com.

Media contact:

paddleforhumanity@gmail.com

***

About the Paddle for Humanity:

The Watermans Applied Science Paddle for Humanity has raised more than $50,000USD for

charity since its inception in 2009 and helped galvanize paddling communities across the country.

The PFH is open to all paddle craft. For more info visit www.paddleforhumanity.org.

“Like” the PFH on facebook

It’s a pleasant Monday morning at the Alley

Admin — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:11:48 +0000

Reposted with permission from www.coastalwatch.com

small, fun peelers running down a nicely groomed sandbar buffed by the whisper of an offshore. Sun shining. Mellow crowd. A few SUPs who seem to be minding their manners, the regular longboard crew, a couple of energetic rippers on retro fish.My six-year-old has a late start due to a school excursion and I figure we have time for a quick paddle. It’s grommet heaven out there – a knee-high, sand bottom J-Bay running for hundreds of metres. My boy rides a few while I watch on, spellbound in the shallows, until one carries him too far down the beach and ends in deep water. He’s a little freaked out by the distance between us and wants to come in.We arrive in the shorebreak at the same time as a mature-age standup paddler. He cuts an unobtrusive figure with his slim build and sunhat. He and Alex are in animated conversation by the time I reach the sand.

To be honest, I’d heard the great man was out there, visiting our fair shores as part of a promotional tour with Wayne Lynch for Patagonia, while spruiking his latest book. But the timing of our exits from the water is sheer accident. It’s a slightly surreal scene I take in as I wade out of the water, watching my young fella’ chatting amiably with Mr Pipeline himself, Gerry Lopez.

I’ve met the Master a few times over the years, and I introduce myself and my boy.“This is Gerry,” I tell Alex. “You know, like Tom and Jerry.” I immediately want to take back the naff comment, as if it’s a bit undignified. But Alex pounces on it.“You’re the cat ,” he grins cheekily, “and I’m the mouse. You’ve got to chase me.” Gerry grins back, apparently enjoying an audience not entirely awestruck by his presence.

From Left to right – Lopez, Ron Adler, Jack McCoy and Mick Dibetta

It’s a big morning for surf legends at the Alley. Larger than life surf film maestro Jack McCoy has been shooting Lopez. He comes ambling up, video camera in hand and points it at my boy, who has no issue with being the centre of attention. “I got a couple of waves of yours,” big Jack tells little Alex. “What do you like best about surfing?” he poses, bringing the camera in close. “I don’t know,” Alex ponders, then decides: “Getting barreled!”We all laugh and make our way up the beach to the car park.It’s interesting to observe Lopez up close. I’m not normally in the thrall of surf legends but the man emits a definite aura. He moves slowly but deliberately, seems to give whatever’s going on around him his full attention, makes unblinking eye contact with whomever he meets.

He’s been speaking to packed houses throughout this Australian tour. A slightly-built 62-year-old, who only ever won two pro contests, who now lives miles from the ocean and snowboards more than he surfs, still has a gravitational pull like few other surfers.

Now, my local spot isn’t normally such a hub of surf luminaries, especially on a quiet Monday morning, but suddenly it’s as if someone’s pulled out a surf legend magnet. There’s local elder Ron Adler, the man who produced one of the first lines of surfing boardshorts in Australia back in 1963, still a fit and active daily presence in the lineup. Lifeguard Mick Dibetta, normally stationed at Burleigh and one of the world’s great ocean paddlers, turns up. Mick’s the man who taught Jamie Mitchell his craft and won the Molokai Challenge four times, and set a new course record, before his protégé Jamie took over and won it the next 10 years running.

Mick hardly gets mobbed in the streets here, but he’s big news in Hawaii, respected as the consummate all-round waterman. He and Gerry exhibit a warm mutual respect. Next, four-time world title runnerup and world masters champion Cheyne Horan arrives in his surf school van ready for the days’ lessons. He looks like a veritable grommet amid the surfing seniors.

I’ve got to get my boy off to his school excursion but I leave this gaggle of surfing identities ensconced in a cosy bubble of animated conversation. It’s not often a quick morning session with my boy leaves me on such a high. I’d like to think it’s not just the chance celebrity encounter. That it’s more to do with the generational interaction – surfers in their 60s, 50s and 40s all finding inspiration and common ground in their various life stages, and able to share in the simple delight of a six-year-old just taking his first steps on a lifelong aquatic journey.

A lot of the time, I find it hard to believe in the existence of any kind of “surfing family” with shared values and a common bond, struggle to see much evidence of “community” in the so-called surfing community. Surfing’s always been too keen to relegate its elders to the dustbin of history, I reckon. With its youth fixation popular surf culture’s like a forest where all the mature trees are cut down. It doesn’t provide much shade or foster great bio-diversity.

In those packed houses Lopez and Lynch have been fronting, I see the stirrings of a hunger for some kind of cultural continuum in surfing. I wander down the hill from my place to the SurfWorld Museum that night to hear Gerry speak, along with a couple of hundred others. We’re not disappointed. He sells and signs dozens of his books, posters, even an old Lightning Bolt gun of his some collector has dragged along for the occasion. The legends are again in force – McTavish, Rusty Miller, Cheyne, and Baddy Treloar,

He speaks for close to an hour, quietly spinning yarns and philosophy to a rapt audience, in turns funny, poignant, profound. Among other startling revelations he describes the genesis of the shortboard revolution in Maui, credits Wayne Lynch as showing the world how to ride the new shortboards, and hints at a raucous road trip he and Baddy shared up the east coast, from Bells to Noosa after the 1970 world titles. He reckons when a news reporter hounded him to name the best surfer in the world back in the ‘70s, he nominated Tommy Zahn. “Who? Why? I’ve never heard of him. What’s he done?” the reporter blustered. “He slept with Marilyn Monroe,” was Gerry’s cheeky riposte.

He makes me feel better about my odd vocation when he quotes the great Phil Edwards: “’The best part about surfing is talking about it afterwards.’ In a sense he was right because the actual moments on the wave are so very brief and really quite fleeting that unless we talk about them afterwards we don’t really get to look at them, examine them, maybe understand them,” says Gerry. And he has this to say about being a mature-age surfer. “The first 20 years I surfed was just a test to see if I was really interested.”

I stumble back out into a humid Summer night with a signed poster for my boy from “Uncle Gerry,” and a warm inner glow that is not entirely due to the free beers.

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Watermans partners with Futures Fins

Admin — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 22:17:56 +0000

:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ::

Futures Fins Enters Distribution Partnership with Watermans Applied Science

2/16/12 – Orange County, CA: Watermans Applied Science, the most effective and functional sunscreen on the market, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Huntington Beach based Futures Fins LLC. The collaboration focuses on the philosophical synergy between Futures and Watermans to provide the customer with more direct access to quality products from both companies.

Both companies believe the cornerstone of a good brand is a quality product. “When I first met Vince [Longo] it was obvious that he has a real passion for great product,” said Watermans’ Macon Brock. A fact not lost on Longo, owner/president of Futures Fins, “I truly believe in Watermans. It is the best sunscreen I have ever used.” Both brands are widely viewed as the best in their respective categories.

The partnership is a strategic move on behalf of Watermans to increase the customer experience. Watermans will be utilizing the experienced sales, marketing and customer service team of Futures Fins to expand their domestic reach. “[Futures] has a greater distribution channel and the staff to bring a better service component to our customers,” says Brock. Adding, “We are looking forward to working with Futures and taking Watermans to the next level.” Collaborative operations are underway immediately.

Core to the philosophy of both brands is the idealism of manufacturing quality products in the USA. “The fact that Futures has set domestic manufacturing as a goal was a huge factor in our decision making.” Said Watermans Pete Stirling, “What is the point of success if it doesn’t serve the community at large?” Futures currently manufactures all molded products including boxes and fins in Huntington Beach. Watermans is made in the USA.

For more information contact customersupport@futuresfins.com

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Watermans Rory Greg featured in The Milk Crate Mag

Admin — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:26:01 +0000

excerpt from complete article at http://themilkcratemag.com/2012/02/06/rory-gregg/

You have been featured on the Waterman’s Applied Science blog, which has become a popular destination for readers seeking information on a variety of aquatic pursuits. In doing so, you have joined the ranks of a legendary set of athletes, including Chuck Patterson and Jamie Mitchell. How did you become involved with the Waterman’s crew?

Well, to even be mentioned in the same sentence as those guys is one of the most flattering statements that has ever been said to me. I have a long way to go to be considered legendary status, and short of pedaling my Hobie Pro Angler to 10 World Titles, or dropping into 50-foot waves on a Hobie SUP, I am proud to represent a brand that represents the best athletes in the outdoors industry. I approached Watermans over a year ago, after getting some samples from a friend of mine, who is a former rep of theirs, and they also carry the brand at my Hobie dealer, Black Creek Outfitters. It was the best sunscreen I had ever used, and since I have been working with Watermans, I have never been sunburned since. Being a kayak angler and a surfer, I have always considered myself a waterman, and being a true waterman is having a passion for your core sport(s), but also being driven to try other waterman sports just for the sake of being on the water. Spending countless hours on the water throughout my life, I use a ton of sunscreen, and being a fair skinned Irish guy, having the right sunscreen has always been crucial to staying on the water for hours on end. Watermans has the perfect match of protection and quality as a brand, and the people at Watermans Applied Science are passionate about all water sports and the protection of the athletes driving them. When I first spoke to Pete Sterling there, he was intrigued with the opportunity of representing a professional kayak angler as they hadn’t really made a push into the kayak angling arm of the outdoors industry yet. It was a win-win partnership, but the proof had to be in the pudding, and as with any sponsorn you have to earn it and then reciprocate to your sponsoring brands by driving exposure to the brand. Through my consistent tourney results, seminars and events, and editorial endeavors, their support has been outstanding, and at the end of the day being protected from skin cancer will keep me on the water for decades to come!

To check out the complete article and learn more about Rory’s exploits read the full article HERE

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watermanssunscreen.com

Ryan Carlson and his Banzai Bowls

Admin — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:33:16 +0000

Joe Bard is a hard charging marketing personality slanging tasty and nutritious Banzai Bowls to the kids. Ryan Carlson is a underground standout known for throwing big airs huge flaired out airs. Both are making sure Huntington Beach keeps its name on the map as a place to surf and eat.

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H2Flo Aloha

Admin — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:33:15 +0000

Jeff Moss isn’t you ordinary investment banker turned softy. Moss walked away from a successful run on Wall Street in 2000 to focus on making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate through H2Flo. His direct and successful approach might be less profitable monetarily than it was in his past life, but his willingness to take payment in smiles has no doubt paid dividends for the thousands of kids he has impacted through his efforts.

Where ever you live there are people within reach that are doing what they can to make a difference in the every day lives of their fellow man. Do what you can to help them on their way.

Checkout Jeff and H2Flo on Facebook by clicking HERE

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Jamie Mitchell wins Surfing Life’s Oakley Big Wave Award – Largest Paddle in Wave

Admin — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 13:59:13 +0000

SURFING LIFE’s OAKLEY BIG WAVE AWARDS 2011/12

No contest singlets… no ratings points… just one really big wave…

WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT SURFING LIFE’S OAKLEY BIG WAVE AWARDS

The best day in five years at Western Australia’s Cow Bombie has given Damien “Taco” Warr the big cheque in Surfing Life’s Oakley Big Wave Awards.

At a typically raucous presentation last night in Sydney, Warr accepted $20,000 for the biggest wave ridden in Australasian waters for the past year and immediately paid tribute to other riders – in particular Queensland’s Jamie Mitchell, who won the biggest paddle-in ride on the same day.

“That was the first time guys had really taken it on by paddling, and it was amazing to watch,” said Warr, who after getting his own mind boggling wave, sat in deep water to watch Mitchell and the other paddler nominees charge into the bombs. “The day was just right, it was clean, not much wind, the sort of day we haven’t had there since 2006.”

Taco himself almost didn’t make it out that day after miscalculating and driving to nearby Margaret River instead. “It was way too big, so I got back in my car and drove up to the bay near Cow,” he recalled. “I had the wrong board, no tow partner, I was freaking out. Luckily I ran into a mate, Roger Melville, who had a jetski. Then my wife drove my tow-board to the ramp to save time.”

No prizes for guessing where Taco will be spending some of the $20,000.

This year’s Awards broke all records for entries with over 50 rides submitted across all categories, from locations in West Oz, Victoria, NSW and epically, Tasmania. A huge day at Shipstern Bluff gave Tassie local Tyler Hollmer-Cross the winner in the Biggest Slab Award – a prize designed for waves thicker than even they are high.

Shooter Awards went to filmmakers Rick Jakovich, Tim Bonython, Dave Otto and Jamin McLean and stills lensman Andrew Chisolm who provided evidence of the winning rides.

The Awards now head into their tenth anniversary year, with a new season beginning this morning – or given the nature of the presentation night, maybe this afternoon would be more accurate.

Event planners are working on a few special things for the anniversary year, with the paddle-in division sure to get a kick in the pants of some sort after this year’s effort. The unique judging system, in which the riders themselves get a chance to vote on their peers’ efforts, will definitely be retained according to event co-ordinator Nick Carroll. “It worked really well this year,” says Carroll, “and we’re planning on continuing the surfer involvement in judging for sure in 12/13.”

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PRESS RELEASE: Jamie Mitchell signed by Reef

Admin — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 22:38:53 +0000

Cardiff, California’s Rob Machado, 38, surfing’s longtime icon of style, re-signed a footwear deal with Reef, extending their relationship for the next three years. Machado is a traveling ambassador of the Reef Modern Gypsy lifestyle and will represent Reef’s premium leather sandal collection. In addition to re-signing Machado, Reef has also inked a footwear deal with all-round elite waterman and recent ASL/Oakley Big Wave Award recipient for Biggest Paddle in Wave, Jamie Mitchell.

Machado has been on the Reef program since 1998 and has been one of the top competitors on the world stage since theearly 1990s. Machado’s long reign on the ASP World Championship Tour included a second place finish in 1995 and eight elite Word Tour victories, including the Pipeline Masters in 2000. That year he was also inducted into the Surfers Hall of Fame.

When asked about his new deal with Reef, Machado stated, “Reef has been like family over the years. I’m blessed to have such support and killer product and get to do what I love to do. I’m Looking forward to this next chapter.”

For the past decade, Machado has reaffirmed his love of soulful, stylish surfing. While he continues to impress as a wildcard in various ASP events, Machado has come to represent surfing’s wanderlust, traveling the world to document waves off the beaten path and opening the collective surfing mind to a much wider spectrum of surfboards. In addition to surfing, Machado can often be heard playing his music on various tours and continues to be an activist for clean oceans while giving back to his local community.

Reef is also proud to welcome to the team, 10x Molokai to Oahu Paddleboard Race Champion, Jamie Mitchell. The Australian bred competitor travels the world, chasing swells and competing in, and dominating, some of the globe’s most physically challenging endurance paddleboard races. Not to be cast as just a master of paddle boarding, Mitchell is just as renowned for his diverse quiver of wave riding vehicles from short boards, foil boards and even canoe surfing. Mitchell will represent Reef’s most premium line of leather sandals, the Supreme Collection, alongside big wave riding legend, Shane Dorian.

The always-poised Jamie Mitchell added, “I’m honored to be joining the Reef team. Reef has an amazing group of athletes, many of which I have looked up to for a long time. To have the opportunity to share what I do with the rest of the Reef team is really exciting. I’ve always set out to be adaptable and to enjoy the ocean in as many ways as possible, to have Reef’s support means a lot to me and inspires me to chase my dreams and push them as far as I can.”

Head to Reef.com to follow Rob Machado and Jamie Mitchell.

Chuck Patterson on the Sunset Beach Pro Trials

Admin — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:26:33 +0000

Sunset Beach Pro SUP Surf World Tour Trials

It was a solid day of rising swell 6′-8′ swell with a bunch of 10′-12′ ft clean up sets. Went out at sunrise to get a couple good warm up waves and get the conditions dialed. I got a couple great waves and my Naish Hokua 9’8 was feeling great for the size.

Sure enough when you get a little comfortable, thats when it happens; Kai Lenny and I were paddling for this one steep bomb that I didn’t want to let go by and getting into it a little late, I air dropped down the face, landed and set up for the bottom turn just as the lip went over my head and shut the garage door, sending me deep to the bottom, rag dolling for several seconds trying to figure out which way was up and finally I climbed my leash rope to the surface for air. I came up laughing and collected my gear and paddled out to get a couple more just to keep my head in the game.

I competed in 3, 20 minute heats against a strong competitive field of athletes from all over the world. I went into each heat with one thing in mind and that was to have as much fun as possible surfing and it worked. I can’t say I wasn’t nervous or full of adrenaline, but going against the best always brings out the best in you.

In The last heat, the swell was getting pretty maxed out with a couple close out sets and the wind and rain turned onshore making it pretty difficult, where any mistake could take you out of the game. I concentrated on getting the biggest waves and if nothing came my way, I just stayed busy on the inside which ended up working in my favor.

Now I made it into the first round of the main event and have to do it all over again. Super stoked and I’m hoping for huge surf to separate the men from the boys.

Thanks to all my sponsors for your great support and in helping me do what I love to do.

Aloha,

Chuck P

chuckpattersonsports.com

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Watermans Miles Smith

Admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:09:28 +0000

Miles has made the big jump from SoCal to Santa Cruz, but it is a good bet the colder water won’t dampen Smith’s stoke.

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Jamie Mitchell wins Oakley Big Wave Award for Biggest Paddle in Wave

Admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:47:31 +0000

Yep, Jamie won again. For more info check http://www.surfinglife.com.au/news/asl-news/6660-biggest-wave-winners .

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Watermans Fisher Heverly

Admin — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:57:25 +0000

Fisher Heverly has accomplished much so far in his pro surfing carrear. Multiple member of the prestigious USA Team and currently sponsored by Quiksilver, Sharp Eye and Watermans, Fisher has been putting his time in on the north shore of Hawaii. Being from North Carolina, Fisher is helping pave the path for the new genertation of East Coast. Watch for Fisher to blow up in an area near you soon.

Photos and words by Joe Foster

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Alex Gullet wins Body Glove Best Trick Heat in Seal Beach

Admin — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:20:53 +0000

The 14^th annual Seal Beach Surfing Championships ran last weekend (2/4/12 – 2/5/12) on North Side of the pier. This year contest directors added the all new Body Glove Best Trick Heat. 20 of the most talented OC surfers paddled out for a no holds bar 30 minute heat. When it was all over Alex Gullet stuck a prefect front side reverse air and took home the giant check.

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Connor Wins in Australia!!!

Admin — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:56:27 +0000

On my way to Australia for the notorious “The Doctor” event in Perth, I stopped off in Thailand. Traveling with Zane Schweitzer and Bart de Zwart – we went to Starboard Internationals Headquarters to test, shape and design some new wave boards. After 5 great days in Thailand – Bart and I headed to Australia.

Ian Grose, the Starboard distributor in Australia, picked us up at Perth Airport – and we went to his shop, picked up our 14’ Starboard Ace boards and went out for a paddle.

The event is called “The Doctor” – named after the wind that normally occurs in the summer months in Western Australia. It is a 27km (18 mile) long distance race from Rottnest Island to Sorrento Beach on the Perth Coast. It is the most prestigious and longest ocean race held in WA on the Australian Ocean Racing circuit.

Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t what the doctor ordered the day of the race. Normally a downwind race – this day was a crosswind.

The day started off with a 45-minute boat ride out to Rottnest Island. Once we got there, I prepared my 14’ Ace, putting in my new Rista Race Fin. Once my board was ready, I took it for a test run and then went to the beach to get ready for the start of the race.

It was light wind from the side, which made the race hot and grueling. Temperatures ranged between 35-40°C (95-104°F). And with the crosswinds, I probably paddled on my right side only 20 times, which made my left side super sore. It was one of the hardest races I have done in awhile.

Right when the race started, I open it up like always and pulled a little gap on the rest of the competitors. I got into the zone, put my head down and started to grind hard. For most of the race I was in front, but then a guy named Sam Parker from Australia caught up to me and we battled it out until 20 minutes from the finish. I knew I had to make a move; otherwise we would have to battle it up the beach. So I put my head down and pulled a gap on Sam and just tried to maintain my lead. I stayed in front until the end and ran up the beach in first place – finishing in 2 hours 46 minutes and 51 sec.

After a lot of water and rest, I went to the awards. They had the winners dress up in a Doctors Jacket – and the Trophy had a Stethoscope on it. It was good fun!

A big Mahalo to all the event organizers and volunteers at “The Doctor”. Great Event – and Really well organized!!!

Look forward to doing it again next year and experiencing The Real Doctor Winds!!!

I want to thank my sponsors for all their support – Starboard, Maui Jim Sunglasses, Rainbow Sandals, Rista Fins, EFX Technology, Dakine, GoPro Cameras, On It Pro, Waterman’s Sunscreen, Sunrite Maui, and Hi-Tech Sports.

Off now to go to Oahu and compete in the Sunset Pro – Stand Up World Tour event.

Aloha -
Connor Baxter

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Best sunscreen for Sailing

Admin — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:36:47 +0000

Our professional sailing team just started using Watermans sunscreen this past January, at Key West Race Week, where everyone convenes from the Northern climes and usually end up sunburnt. But not this year. We had Watermans exclusively on the boat, SPF 33 and 55 in the lotion and the stick, and not a single person out of our 18 person team got burnt. We were in variety of conditions from windy and wet to hot and humid, and there were no complaints of running sunscreen or greasiness. But I am sure you guys know all of this!…we were stoked to finally find a sunscreen that actually works! and works really well in a wet environment!! We are stoked to use your products!

Here are couple of shots that our photographer took…

And check out more photos on our team facebook page https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151162481565297.795241.853555296&type=1&aft=10151174868475297

and our website: http://www.interlogesailing.com

Thanks again!

Jamie Haines

Rigger – Interlodge Sailing Team

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watermanssunscreen.com

Watermans Featured Athlete- Nathan Carvalho

Admin — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 00:49:51 +0000

Fresh off his second place at the Billabong World Junior championships in Australia, Nathan Carvalho really put himself on the map. Surfing all the way from the trials into the finals, this Hawaiian dark horse added ten g’s to his bank account and caught the attention of the surfing world. Not only that, he did it on a borrowed epoxy board and used rail turns mixed with new school surfing to get the job done. At a young 20 years old, this kid is going to be making news as he ascends to surfings elite. We are proud of Nathan and glad to have him aboard.

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Is Sunscreen a Preformance Enhancing Drug?

Admin — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:47:50 +0000

Here at WATERMANS® APPLIED SCIENCE, we believe that performance is paramount to success. Our Zero Migration formulas never bleed in your eyes, make your hands slippery, wear off prematurely or negatively affect your performance. Every ingredient and attribute is individually chosen to provide the ultimate broad-spectrum protection without sacrifice, and it is this unique combination of unbeatable protection and undeniable performance that makes WATERMANS® the sunscreen program of choice for armatures and professionals alike.

Eveything I just mentioned is great when you consider how using sunscreen might negatively impact your game, but I’d like to take a moment to discuss how it may increase performance.

One of the major contributing factors to inconsistent performance in outdoor athletics is exposure. However, by properly negating the long and short term effects of exposure it is possible to maintain consistent athletic performance day in and day out – allowing an athlete to reach his or her full potential. When it comes to water sports this primarily entails wearing a quality sunscreen.

It makes sense when you consider it, after all, the skin is the largest organ in the body. It is the body’s first line of defense against outside influence, such as UV radiation, and when put under stress the body acts to defend it. In the short term this reaction can include reallocating precious blood and nutrients from the muscles to the surface of the skin.

True, a little sun can positively affect your mood, but even moderate exposure can cause an increase in stress hormones, notably Adrenal Cortizol, which is otherwise tasked with regulating the way the body processes food to create energy. Inconsistent hormone levels means inconsistent performance. To make matters worse, sun damage is cumulative, meaning these negative effects can compound and severely impact the athletes performance to the point that he or she will need to rest and fully recover in order to continue working or training.

By using a proper skin protection system that includes a quality sunscreen, such as Waterman Applied Science, you can stay more effective for longer periods of time. Whether you are surfing, paddling, running or fishing, you might find it is your sunscreen providing that little edge over the competition.

That’s all for now. To learn more about Watermans line of sun protection products visit Watermanssunscreen.com and remember to wear your sunscreen, because getting burned sucks!

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Chemical Free Sunscreen Non-sence put to rest

Admin — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:23:49 +0000

OK, so we admit that we are a bit bias, but not without reason. The overuse of marketing related terms, such as “Chemical Free” and “All Natural” that have come to dominate a small sector of the sunscreen industry, are guilty of preying on societies fears and lack of education to sell product to individuals who really do care about what they put in their body. (Check out this earlier article on the EWG published in the NY Times.)People innately fear what they don’t understand and the best advice is to trust those that are qualified to give advice, ignore the outliers and protect yourself and your family. Wear sunscreen!

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By Deborah BlumJanuary 22, 2012

In honor of this year’s “eat healthier” resolution, my teenage son and I drove over to a local bakery in the first week of January. On the shop’s window, someone had painted the words “Whole-grain bread.” So far, so good. The next line read “No preservatives.” And the third — I did a double take — “Chemical-free.”My son, slouching next to me, heard me inhale and hastily looked for the cause. “Mom,” he said urgently. “Mom! Let’s just leave quietly.”Of course, he was remembering — and who could really forget? — my discovery of “chemical-free” honey at the weekend farmers market last summer. On the way home from the bakery, breadless, my son returned to the now-familiar subject of having a hopeless geek as a parent, and I found myself trying, once again, to explain why I find the phrase “chemical-free” so exasperating.

I date my crusade to about two years ago. I’d just finished a book on the early history of poison detection, and it had left me brimming with questions about the way we navigate our chemical world.

I use the word “navigate” because I tend to think of the chemical world as an unfinished map. Our universe, our planet, even we ourselves comprise a complex chemical terrain. Scientists have so far tallied some 60 elements in the human body, from the iron that stains our blood red to the calcium that builds our bones. I’ve always liked the idea that the primary elements that make up our bodies were created long ago in the blaze of stars around us. We and everything that surrounds us are, in effect, cosmological chemistry, what the late astronomer Carl Sagan liked to call “star stuff.”

Yet, if I Google the term “chemical-free,” I get 209 million hits in 0.19 seconds, a carnival of links to chemical-free mattresses, carpets, cosmetics, nail polish, hair dyes, mosquito repellents, bed bug killers, chemical-free cigarettes (a personal favorite) — and a recent news story about a Virginia couple breeding “chemical-free bees,” a species apparently destined to make that chemical-free honey they sell at the farmers market.

Honey, all honey, is actually a chemical stew of sugars, acids, enzymes, proteins, vitamins, minerals and more. I’d list them, but it would take all of my allotted space here. Of course, when people advertise chemical-free honey, they don’t really mean it. They mean a product free — so far as they know — of industrial or synthetic chemical compounds. It’s a concept invented by a marketing genius to sell products, and embraced by consumers looking for products that are extra-safe.

But let’s not fool ourselves into believing that a product free of industrial chemicals is necessarily harmless, or that the word “natural” is equivalent to the word “safe.” The cosmic origins of our planet provided the elements necessary for life, but the process didn’t stop there. It also brought us a list of naturally occurring elements that include arsenic, mercury and lead. Some of the most dangerous toxins on Earth are natural, including plant poisons such as cyanide or nicotine, snake and insect venoms, and poisons produced by the bacteria that cause tetanus and botulism.

And let’s not fool ourselves either into thinking that “chemical-free” is just a harmless little slogan. This simple-minded equating of “chemical” with “evil” is an invitation to chemophobia. We read it a lot more often than we read up on the actual ingredients of the things we consume, and daily exposure can muddy our understanding of legitimate risks.

You may remember that about five years ago, when discouraging residents from using bacteria-infested public swimming pools, the city of Louisville, Ky., put up these misguided warning signs: “Water contains high levels of hydrogen.” And people heeded the warning, seemingly unaware that water wouldn’t be water unless it contained high levels of hydrogen. We’re still trying to figure out how to teach science well, but we’ve done an excellent job of teaching fear of chemicals.

If you wonder if this fear actually exists, consider that last year the Elenco Electronics company introduced a chemistry set, the Chem 60, that cheerfully features an extra safety feature: “60 fun activities with no chemicals.” Or that one of our more prestigious research journals, Science, last summer ran a story about a new process for creating fibers out of milk proteins, which noted: “The best part? The process uses no chemicals or pesticides.”

So yes, spend just a couple of years writing about chemistry and this will start to bother you. You’ll wonder why we can’t just say something more precise like “additive-free” or “synthetic-chemical-free.” You’ll worry about the way our current usage blurs reality, about how it makes the chemical map seem even fuzzier. And if you focus, particularly as I do, on toxic compounds, then you’ll worry that it promotes a way of thinking that makes us less safe rather than more so.

It also cheats us, on a regular basis, of enjoying the fantastical nature of the world around us. At least so I think as I write this article on a winter day here in Wisconsin, fueling my work with that intricate alkaloid caffeine — eight atoms of carbon, 10 of hydrogen, four of nitrogen and a mere two of oxygen (C8H10N4O2) — and procrastinating by watching a dazzle of snow dance past the window, lacy frozen crystals of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen (H2O).

Of course, when I try these conclusions out on my son, it brings us back to that hopeless geek discussion. As far as I can tell, he’s focused on the downside only, the annoying fact that we had to drive miles out of the way to find a bakery that would admit to using chemicals in its bread. But that’s another problem.

Deborah Blum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning science writer, is the author of “The Poisoner’s Handbook: Murder and the Birth of Forensic Medicine in Jazz Age New York.” A link to her blog, Speakeasy Science, can be found at deborahblum.com

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Notes from the field: Sunscreen is for real

Admin — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 01:33:36 +0000

100+ mile weeks and a lifetime on the water have taught SUP World Champion, Jenny Kalmbach the value of picking the best sunscreen for paddling.

Watermans made its debut at Surf Expo last week and received a warm welcome. It seemed like everyone who came through the booth was stoked on the product. Unsolicited feedback along the lines of “Best sunscreen ever” and “This is the only sunscreen I use” kept us on our feet and smiling for three days straight. That is with one exception…

On Friday, two girls approached the booth to pick up some stickers. They were young and bronzed, obviously there more for pleasure than business, and in a crowd featuring much the same nothing really made them standout. However, when we asked them if they wanted sunscreen samples to try the next day their response tore us down from the clouds. ”We don’t use sunscreen,” said the younger of the two as she picked through the various logos on offer. ”Why not?” Asked one of the guys as she put the sticker in her bag. ”Because we don’t like it,” she said matter of fact, “it’s all sticky.” I looked at Frank, our Mid-Atlantic rep, his left ear and part of his nose lost to Melanoma, a scar running the length of his face on the right, a vertical slit across his throat, the results of countless surgeries. He stood there as proof of youthful ignorance’s ability to ravage the body. They were totally oblivious, lost in the invulnerability of youth. To them Frank was just old.

Flash forward a week and I’m standing at a Walmart counter with my brother purchasing a fishing license. The guy behind us took our outward appearances into consideration, my lawyer brother in his suit and me dressed like a highschool jock with no fashion sense. He asked if we had come from work. ”What do you do?” He asked. Mike explained and I followed up, “I sell sunscreen.” ”That stuff will kill you,” he said before setting off on a twenty minute diatribe about the dangers of sunscreen use, mostly referencing the wickedly inaccurate and unscientific EWG studies we’ve all heard at one time or another. (Other sites posting such info can usually be traced back to this single source.) “You need to check out that site buddy,” he stated. He was purchasing ammunition, apparently unaware of the thousands of sites dedicated to the dangers of gun ownership. Funny that faced with so much anti-gun advocacy he would remain confident in the idea that a gun could be something other than dangerous, but be closed to the idea that a 5% chemical solution – recommended by every Ph.D. in the country – might bring anything but death.

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Best Youtube video compilation ever seen

Admin — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:58:00 +0000

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Sidelined for a month after melanoma surgery. Don’t let this happen to you!

Admin — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 18:37:42 +0000

Tim Kessler has struggled to balance his water time with bouts of skin cancer for the past few years. Here are a few unsolicited words of wisdom from our fried. We wish him well. – Watermans Staff

If Waterman’s Applied Science was available when I was a kid growing up at the beach, this never would have had to happen.

Do the right thing for your family and friends, use only Waterman’s Applied Science – use it year round. Here in Southern California we surf way more in the winter due to the North and West Swells and the sun’s radiation is brutal. I’m a traditional paddleboarder and surf and prevention is key and I’m not a paid spokesperson; I just know what works and Waterman’s is the very best you can use. It stays on and never stings the eyes which is key in water sports.

Also, make an appointment with a Dermatologist and get regular check-ups. Don’t wait until it’s mandatory and you have to go under the scalpel. We only get one shot at this life, make it count! if you have any questions or need a referral text, email, or facebook Tim Kessler, anytime

tim@cleancoaastalwater.com

(five-zero-three) 386-2449

For more on Tim visit cleancoastalwater.com

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Watermans January Desktop Calendar

Admin — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 01:02:01 +0000

Wiamea update #6 with Mark Healey

Admin — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:41:26 +0000

Mark Healey takes us for some outer island spear fishing and hoop netting in the sixth rendition of Quiksilver Wiamea update.

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A Deep Dive On Freediving at Surf Expo

Admin — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:22:57 +0000

Watermans’ Mark Healey builds industry interest in the ancient sport of Freediving.

Exerts from online article by Sean O’Brien.

Look deep enough into any endeavor and hierarchy appears. Novices learn the ropes and either stall out, drop out, or advance toward true mastery. It’s just the way of the world.
It’s no different with surfing. The far right side of the bell curve takes years―a lifetime even―to achieve. Yeah, it’s partially the realm of the inverted rodeo air and the ten-second Mentawai barrel, but the true masters also include those who have learned the facets of the ocean and are equally at home with all of them.

Gerry Lopez is right: the term “waterman” is an overused crutch used by surf industry marketing types. But there is a group deserving of the title who have captured the imagination of surfers of all types. At Surf Summit this year, Mark Healey held the normally boisterous surf industry nabobs in hushed respect―in no small part because of his exploits in the ancient but increasingly popular sport of freediving.

After photos of Healey surfaced taking a ride on the dorsal fin of a Great White Shark, he became this season’s “it guy” for reasons that go far beyond his skill catching waves. Hot on his heels came the tale of Brandon Wahlers being dragged for three miles after spearfishing a 358 pound tuna―a perfect 21st century redux of Hemingway’s fish tale. Suddenly, it seems, freediving is everywhere and its popularity has become more inclusive than those epics suggest.

Freediving is an advanced offshoot of snorkeling that’s great training for big waves, often a way to put dinner on the table, and a new product category board retailers should consider. “Based on what we’ve seen, there’s a strong correlation between being a freediver and being a good surfer,” says Matt Larson, manager of Mitch’s Surf Shop in La Jolla, California.

For more info, visit www.surfexpo.com.

Week 5 – Weekly Waimea Report with Mark Healey

Admin — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 12:31:27 +0000

The 4th week of Quiksilvers series featuring Mark Healey. Mark shows us that a day without waves just a good excuse to catch some fish.

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Wiamea Update with Mark Healey

Admin — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 18:30:03 +0000

The 4th week of Quiksilvers series featuring Mark Healey. Mark takes us through his experience during the 2011 Pipeline Pro.

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RIP Sean Collins

Admin — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 21:03:11 +0000

Video: Sean explains “How Cortez Banks Works”

“We’ve all ridden more waves because of Sean Collins. It’s that simple.” – Peter Townend, as quoted by the AP

Few people will ever have the impact on a sport like surfline.com founder Sean Collins. Although controversial at times, Sean kept us stoked between swells with promises of things to come and provided a rare glimpse of over the hill and around the bend that would served as the impetus for untold exploration.

When I was a kid he was like the Wizard of Oz, the man behind the curtain. As an adult, I had the brief opportunity to work under his roof and got to meet a great man. He loved surfing, waves and the pursuit of knowledge associated with his passion. That he chose to share this knowledge with the rest of us will be his greatest gift to the surfing public and his legacy for years to come.

Sean, you will be missed.

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Spear Fishing with Mark Healey

Admin — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:14:29 +0000

Mark is a world class spearfisherman and freediver. Don’t try this at home.

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Mark Healey Wiamea Update #3 – Kala Alexander

Admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:10:19 +0000

Fellow Eddie Aikau invitee, Kala Alexancer with WATERMANS Mark Healey.

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Mark Healey Wiamea Update #2

Admin — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 11:05:52 +0000

Opening Ceremony at the Eddie Aikau with WATERMANS Mark Healey.

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CJ Hobgood back on Tour

Admin — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 00:26:49 +0000

CJ Hobgood is back on the WCT Tour for 2012, after an up and down 2011 where he didn’t make the mid season cut. CJ’s solid 5th round performance at the Pipe Masters, pushed him over the bubble. CJ is always a standout at Teahupo’o and his backside attack at Lowers is nothing if not magnificent.
We here at Waterman’s will always whatever CJ does, but we couldn’t be more stoked to see him back on tour (and back on our fantasy teams.)
Yeah Ceej!

Mark Healey Quiksilver Wiamea Update #1

Admin — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 13:59:41 +0000

We are well into the waiting period for the Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau event and WATERMANS Mark Healey is back at it, keeping up to date each week with a new update from the front lines. If you haven’t been watching then we are about to get you caught up.

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When things get big – the weak freak out and the tough get dinner

Admin — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 16:15:20 +0000

I don’t know this guy, but what I do know is that things look 33% larger underwater. That means if I see a fish that looks like it is three feet long it is probably only two. It also means that this guy climbed into a 5′ deep hole chasing a prehistoric monster that looked as big as Gary Coleman, AKA Arnold, 10-20′ under water, in the dark, while holding his breath and using only his bare hands. Yep, that qualifies as pretty HARD CORE.

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The real other 99%

Admin — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 13:39:30 +0000

Face it. You (and I) might think the world of Surfing or Standup paddling, but 99% of the world could care less. What a good portion of that 99% do care about is Kayaking and Canoe paddling. Yep, either Canoe and/or Kayak is a state sponsored sport in over a dozen nations. (Not the USA.) Before you start squeaking about how dorky these guys look in their tights and contemplating the Freudian implications of two men falling into a natural rhythm with their paddles take a look in the mirror. I bet there is a guy in Denmark who thinks you look pretty silly all wrapped up in your skin tight, day-glow, WTC podium, double taped, fast drying, front zip, rubber body suit. But hey, if you want to go frolic in the waves and show off to the boys in your giant onesie that is fine, just make sure to be nice to the girls so no one gets confused. In light of that revelation I think it is safe to say that what these men and women are doing is pretty bad ass.

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Don’t forget to put sunscreen on your nose

Admin — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:28:51 +0000

In all seriousness, at WATERMANS we may strive to make the best sun protection in the world, but it all boils down to if and how you use it. If you want to use cheap drug store crap or use sunscreen cosmetically in a lame bid to imitate your sporting idols that is your own issue. Now, if you are a parent and your kid wants to paddle his own board, ride his own wave or surf his own wake that is cool – worst case scenario he or she will wipe out and push on. However, if they want to apply their own sunscreen we are going to insist that you provide a little supervision. Hey, at least the sunscreen worked insane!

Poor little blonde guy definitely didn’t forget to put WATERMANS on his nose. Our advice for ALL sunscreen use: finger tip to finger tip, hair line to heels. Sunscreen must be applied evenly to all exposed areas in order to work as intended and prevent sunburn.

For more info checkout our WATERMANS PROTECTION page.

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Up close with Watermans team rider Ethan Carlston

Admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:47:10 +0000

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www.watermanssunscreen.com
Buy Now

Zane Schweitzer Wins

Admin — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 18:09:09 +0000

Watermans Zane Schweitzer podiums, again.

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December Calendar

Admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 02:11:59 +0000

An ominous looking sea can be a beautiful thing.

To download the image as your desktop click HERE

Connor Baxter paddles to win Namotu World Paddle Challenge

Admin — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 18:54:16 +0000

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Visit www.watermanssunscreen.com to learn more about the best sunscreen for paddling.

Connor Baxter wins Namotu World Paddle Challenge

Admin — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 19:21:36 +0000

Sailing Away

Admin — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 04:44:43 +0000

EJ, pulling into his driveway one last time.

Moving can be tough. Selling the house, packing everything into boxes, getting rid of all the extra junk that you’ve accumulated over the years usually causes major stresses for the whole family. Then there’s the Johnsons. A new opportunity arises, and poof, they’re gone. By eliminating most of the excess clutter, they’ve eliminated the excess stress as well. There’s something to be said for living so simply that you can just sail away.
I’m going to have to make a new friend who always has a cooler of beer on his boat.
Happy Sailing…

New Harley Clifford video from our friends at Liquid Force

Admin — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 20:15:39 +0000

Harley shredding Bull Shores wearing his favorite SPF33 Micro White face stick, no doubt.

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Talking Sports with Watermans Kayak Ambasador Elaine Campbell

Admin — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 20:32:01 +0000

Click this link to hear Watermans Kayak Ambasador Elaine Campbell’s interview on Tampa Bay’s Talking Sports with Randy Harris during the Maui Jim minute. (Click HERE)

For more on Elaine Campbell visit Elaincampbellkayaking.com

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November Calendar

Admin — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:21:26 +0000

Lifeguard competitions; where 50+ year old men will make you feel like a silly fat ass who can barely swim.
Thanks guys.

Click HERE to download this image for your desktop

Diving Back into Life (And eating lobster while you’re at it)

Admin — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 20:05:54 +0000

Quickblade’s Jim Terrell and I were reminiscing about the days of our youth – he in Ohio and I in Washington State – running amuck through the untamed wilderness with untold natural discoveries popping up around every corner. Just kids tearing through the forest so fast that, in Jim’s words, “It felt like you were floating.” Although I was able to maintain that sense of wonder in the natural world when I first moved South the feeling of discovery has definitely waned with the increasing pressure of work and life in general. That is, until I rediscovered freediving. Now I’m once again floating through the underwater foliage, exploring caves and wondering at the beauty of nature as it lay before me. That and I’m eating a lot more lobster.

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Watermans should be required wearing for all children

Admin — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 21:38:11 +0000

your sunscreen should be required wearing for ALL children at every beach in the world. We have tried them all, and my wife just couldn’t believe how your stuff performed this year on the beach…..TOM

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www.watermanssunscreen.com

WOD SUP 2011

Admin — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 20:43:18 +0000

If you missed the 2012 Crossfit Sports Series WOD SUP, sponsored by Watermans and Hobie… sorry. You really missed it.

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Man(woman) and His(her) Craft

Admin — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 22:11:42 +0000

If you would like your manhood challenged, go for a paddle with Kriztina Zur.
Kriztina is a world champion kayaker who, as it turns out, can paddle just about anything. She races SUP’s in her spare time, but that’s just for fun. She speaks about her boat like its her child, and seems to have a special relationship with it. Kriztina works extremely hard for her champion/olympian/freak of nature titles-8 hours a day, 5 days a week.
Thats a lot of sunscreen!

Matt Myers’ Intersection Video is Waiting for You…

Admin — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 14:52:26 +0000

Matt Myers stands as one of the most under-rated talents in California surfing and we are proud to count him as a member of the Watermans family. With that sweet voice and sick style how can he lose? VOTE FOR MATT!

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Sandbridge Hei Hei in memory of Kraig Vickers_Video

Admin — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 14:39:33 +0000

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Just Paddle

Admin — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 11:50:12 +0000

Before the surfboard or the SUP there was the canoe. This weekend the outrigger world comes together to cross the Molokai channel. Looks like these guys are doing it in style. Good luck boys – just paddle.

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www.watermanssunsceen.com

October Calendar

Admin — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 19:35:24 +0000

This month’s calendar features Dave Boehne doing some pre-dawn training. It’s amazing that even in crowded Southern California, all you have to do is paddle a mile out to sea to find some peace and quiet.

You can download to your desktop by clicking HERE

Watermans Connor Baxter and Jenny Kalmbach recognized at SUP Awards – Paddle for Humanity deemed best philanthropic effort

Admin — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 22:31:24 +0000

:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ::

Paddle for Humanity recognized for Philanthropic effort at 1^st annual SUP Awards

San Clemente Casino, CA September 27 – The Paddle for Humanity (PFH) wrapped up in Washington, D.C., on August 20^th after a three event run starting in Dana Point and stopping in Deerfield Beach on the way to the Capital. However, the fun didn’t stop on the banks of the Potomac. Last Thursday, SUP magazine recognized the PFH at the 2011 SUP awards, presented by Teva, with the award for top Philanthropic effort of 2011.

The award only further encourages the efforts of organizer, Watermans Applied Science to perpetuate the series. “The Paddle for Humanity is really a community event,” said Race Director, Watermans’ Pete Stirling. “Every stop we had people coming out of the woodwork to make the PFH happen… this series really belongs to the paddling community and we are behind it 110%.” Watermans plans on expanding the 2012 series to four events. Over 400 paddlers participated in the PFH this year.

In addition to the Paddle for Humanity, several Watermans Athletes were also recognized. Top Male Paddler, Connor Baxter and Top Female Paddler Jenny Kalmbach were awarded for their contribution to the growing sport of SUP. Kalmbach’s efforts on the Destination 3-degrees project were also recognized – the resulting documentary was awarded Movie of the Year.

The 2011 Paddle for Humanity series benefited SurfAid International; a non-profit humanitarian organization that has been instrumental in providing basic health care, malaria prevention, clean water and on-going health education programs to the people of the Mentawai Islands. The organization, which is based out of Australia, houses its US headquarters in Encinitas, CA.

The 2011 SUP awards, presented by Teva, are produced by SUP Magazine. For photos and event details visit http://www.supthemag.com/2011-sup-awards/

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SurfAid International

SurfAid International is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the health, wellbeing and self-reliance of people living in isolated communities connected to us through surfing. In partnership with communities and government, SurfAid works to prevent disease, suffering and death through educational programs that aim to change poor health behaviors and reduce the risk from natural disasters. SurfAid’s goal is to empower communities to help themselves and build local capacity so their improved health resilience is sustainable. To learn more about SurfAid go to www.surfaidinternational.org

or call 760-753-1103.

Watermans Applied Science

WATERMANS®: APPLIED SCIENCE stands committed to providing quality sun protection products to those individuals for whom life in the shade is not an option. They offer the best, most effective and functional, high-performance sunscreens on the market, specifically designed for high-intensity water and endurance athletes. Their sunscreen is formulated to stand up to the rigorous demands of an active life in the sun, wind and water. Their goal: to ensure a day in the sun doesn’t mean a lifetime of dealing with the consequences. To learn more about Watermans go to www.watermansappliedscience.com

or call 949-596-0080.

Who the f@#$% is Joe Foster?

Admin — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 20:27:58 +0000

Before becoming a fast talking, chain smoking, HB photog Joe Foster was many things… He played guitar in a christian punk band during the OC straightedge blitz of the late 90′s. He was a white leather jacket wearing booger charging pipe on a pice of day-glow foam and chain smoking dirts in the sand between sets. He was bequeathed to a former one night spinoff from a foggy European tour that stocked him back to the US and pinned him down until he said “I do.” Recently he has entrenched himself as the aforementioned local photographer on staff with Katin and Watermans who has a freakish ability to pull down some interesting light. For now we focus on the time he was kicked out of Korea for being so damn good looking – a true life Zoolander right in our own back yard. As told by Joe Foster:

I started [modeling] in the Asian triangle and got caught working in South Korea without a permit and put on house arrest. This guy, Mr. Kim, owed me $30,000 and it looked like I was going to have to stay, but lucky for me my parents adopted a little girl from South Korea – we named her Kim – from Angel’s Haven and also my dad’s best friend is the president CEO of Samsung so they pulled some strings and got me out of there. But I’m like, this guy owes me $30K and I’m staying at his apartment so I plugged up all his drains turned on all the water, jacked the heat up to the max and threw the keys away. Flood, heat, bomb, boom, lalalala… So now I’m in Japan again and I’m in a subway on my way to my agency when I look up and it is Mr. Kim. He tells me I need to get back to Korea, he’s got a lot of jobs for me, etc… I’m thinking – no way – I just got deported, but there was this Jean Paul Gaultier jacket that I really wanted and it was $800 bucks. So he is like, meet so-and-so at the airport at eight o’clock and she will give you money for an airplane. I’m thinking, I’ll go get the money for sure and buy the jacket. However, at this point I wasn’t working much in Japan so I decided to go to Korea. They let me in the country, I’m walking around for three days and this guy comes up to me and says my name. He’s from immigration, black car pulls up, they toss me in the back and drive me straight to the airport. They had all my stuff and walked me on the plane, deported me and banned me from ever coming back to Korea. If they had caught me working I’d probably still be rotting in a Korean jail. I was supposed to start the next day and they had followed me for 72-hours… That is crazy… Can you imagine me in a South East Asian jail with some big heavy, in there for murder, asking me why I’m in the slammer? What am I supposed to say, I’m in here for modeling?

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East Oahu Lifeguards use Watermans sunscreen

Admin — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 17:48:04 +0000

We recently scored a half gallon of your sunscreen for our lifeguard tower at sandy beach shorebreak and wanted to say thank you and congratulations on an amazing product . We’ve nicknamed it ” the glue ” for how it goes on and how long it lasts. We’re all amped on the stuff and having spreading the word as much as possible .

Aloha and mahalo , east oahu lifeguard

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Connor Baxter wins 2011 Battle of the Paddle

Admin — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 03:42:42 +0000

Zane Shweitzer may have been more excited than the champ himself as he lifts Connor up on his shoulders. Connor was absolutely gassed after the closest Battle ever. The top three finishers; Connor Baxter, Jaime Mitchell, and Danny Ching were separated by seconds, and battled each other the entire race.
Special congratulations to Waterman’s Conner Baxter for his amazing win at the biggest SUP race of the year!

WATERMANS cleans up at the 2011 Hennessey International Paddleboard Champs (results)

Admin — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 19:02:25 +0000

Left to right: 1st overall 14′ Paddleboard Jay Scheckman, 1st >39 UL SUP Jared Vargas, 1st overall 12’6 SUP Jamie Mitchell, 1st 40-49 14′ SUP Chuck Patterson, 1st overall Stock Paddleboard Brian Murphy. (Full results below)

This is the start of a big two weeks for paddleboard and SUP racing. Last Saturday was the Hennessey International Paddleboard World Championships in Hermosa Beach, leading up to the Battle of the Paddle in Dana Point this Saturday-Sunday. Throw in the Victory Wetsuits Surf Race last Sunday, the Catalina Island and WOD SUP events in two weeks and the Island to Island Relay on the 8th and you’ve got yourself a run of six strong events within 40-miles of eachother.

If last weekend was any sign of what is to come the Watermans team looks like it will make a strong showing. Jay Scheckman and Brian Murphy finished off the traditional paddleboard season taking home $1,000USD each for 1st overall finishes in Hermosa.

Most notably, Australian and 10x [traditional] paddleboard world champion Jamie Mitchell took the cash for 12’6 with an overall victory over last years Battle of the Paddle Champion Danny Ching. Mitchell’s dominance proved that he hasn’t back down a bit since Molokai and made anyone questioning his commitment to reclaiming his BOP title think twice. Watermans’ Brandi Baksic finished a solid 3rd leading into BOP weekend.

Brandi and Jamie both took 2nd in the Victory surf race event Sunday.

RESULTS

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Hennessey Paddleboard International (World) Championships 2011 Results

Admin — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 19:00:55 +0000

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Molokai 2011 video featuring Jamie Mitchell and Jeff Denholm

Admin — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 18:58:54 +0000

Featuring Watermans Jamie Mitchell and Jeff Denholm.

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

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I never got even close to sunburned

Admin — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 21:54:11 +0000

I just got back from 10 days of surfing in Mexico and I took one 33 SPF sun cream and one 33 SPF face stick. I never got even close to sunburned and was in the water for several hours at a time without reapplying. I actually left the extra with our guides and I will definitely use your product again. Thanks, Neil

From: Neil

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