The author compares surf contests and coaching to her time ski racing to understand if all that work as a kid, is good when ...

An all-time swell bender in Indonesia. Glorified shorebreak on Scottish rocks. Wave pool sessions in Japan, California and Texas. A spectacular Waimea showing at the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational.

Fast, loose and fun are overused adjectives in the surf industry. But when it comes to Mason and these fins, it fits to a tee. But be warned: rock protection is not included.