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Watch: Imai Devault Surfs With Turbulent Grace

Balancing form with aggression is no easy task.

cinema // Mar 29, 2021
Words by Jack Mutschler
Reading Time: < 1 minute

The struggle between power and style has plagued surfers for decades. The combination of the two characteristics doesn’t come easy— we often see surfers leaning toward one side or the other. Very few can properly walk the impressive tight rope of turbulent grace which is so desperately sought after.

On that thin swaying line, you’ll find Maui native Imaikalani deVault, perfectly poised as he lays waste to waves. Imai does the kind of surfing that we all want but can’t seem to dial in. Each carve unleashes hell but is moderated with precise form.

Imai deVault has been a competitive surfer since the age of eight. With covid canceling most surf contests in Hawaii over the past year, he has had time to reflect. Apparently, he’s also had time to dismember every wave in sight.

Catch part one of his most recent edit (courtesy of Vans) here, next ep drops in a week.

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