Jordy Smith, (almost) lost in the haze of the Lane, Santa Cruz

“It’s foggy in the mornings here and, boy, is it cold,” says photog Ryan Miller of Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz, current location of the world’s 34 best surfers and all those who exist around them. “With the comp starting early, everyone sets their alarms to get in a sniff before the water is cleared for the contest. Jordy (Smith, pictured) braves the fog and the cold to get some practice in every morning. This big boy was going through the motions out there and punishing the soft waves. Wave selection is playing a big part in this contest and so is being able to generate a lot of power on your own.”

But, you won’t see none of that today, since the waves were too soft and a lay day was called. But, we’ll be back shortly. Placed your bets yet?