Stab CUSP: What Did The Vans Pipe Masters Get Right And Wrong?

Every so often the comment section will contain this revolution-hungry cry: “Stab should start a Rebel Tour!”

To be clear, there has been no talk of this.

The WSL performs an important, difficult, and often thankless job. But ultimately, there is no divine rule that designates the WSL as the only organization that can pit surfers against each other. A league (or tour) is just a business. And like every Econ 101 class teaches, competition in a capitalistic ecosystem usually makes the end product better for the consumer (or surf fan, in this case).

In a special bonus episode, Mikey and Stace talk candidly about what the Vans Pipe Masters potentially added to surf fandom, and what it didn’t add. They talk everything from the refreshing convos in the commentary booth to Sierra Kerr’s interference-induced, tear-filled post-heat interview.

They also disagree over whether this first Vans Pipe Masters really did push surfers to take to the air and do turns, breaking up the not-so-monotonous tube party.

No, I don’t think this is the start of an “LIV Golf” situation in our quaint world of surfing. But if it is, I want to be here to write about it.

Stimulate your opinionated side and explore this bonus pod wherever you get your podcasts (Apple, Spotify, Soundcloud).