Photo: John Seaton Callahan
Our vast contributor community is one of the distinct features that makes The Inertia so great. We cannot express how much we value the collective contribution from our ever-growing community of writers, athletes, photographers, videographers, artists, and environmentalists. Your thoughts and visions are vibrant, and your creativity and passion plays an immense role in keeping our site fresh with a diversity of perspectives on a daily basis. With a contributing community of 3,500 talented individuals, we feel privileged to work so many talented people, and we appreciate every submission we receive.
In honor of you, we decided to put together a list of the 15 most popular stories submitted by contributors in 2015. The opinions are raw, the photos are epic, and your consistently unfiltered perspective on surf and ocean culture is both fascinating and entertaining. 2015 was great year for us at The Inertia, and we thank you for your contribution to our site. We couldn’t have done it without you.
Cheers. We’re looking forward to another amazing year.
1) Mick Fanning was NOT Attacked by a Shark, by David Flores
With one of the most horrific and historic moments in professional surfing, this is a question that many people had pondered. “Encounter” or “attack.” Hmm. No matter which way you slice it… it just looks terrifying. We’re all stoked that Mick walked away from this one.
2) An Open Letter to the Surf Industry: This is Why I’m Really Pissed at You, by Nick Razzano
Surfing is pure. At least it should be. I put it on the same level as religion to some folks. However, there is always potential for corruption. How long can something stay pure? Is that even possible? Hm. Your call.
3) The 20 Best Surfing Islands, by John Seaton Callahan
The island life is the best life. At least I like to think so. I’m pretty sure I could handle a lifestyle with crystal blue water, sugary white sand, sipping on coconuts after 8 hours of perfect barrels… and one day, hopefully I will. But until then, I’ll just wallow in photos like these.
4) Something Everyone Needs to Know About Rip Currents, by Patrick Rynne
This is just plain good stuff to know. Seriously.
Screenshot: Felt Soul Media
5) This Is Goodbye: In Memory of Denali, by Ben Moon
The relationship between a person and their dog is a special one. This just hits that point home… in a major way. You’d be forgiven for shedding a few tears after watching this.
Photo: Shutterstock
6) Don’t Be a Planker: Why I Stopped Giving Clients the Plank, by Ash Boddy
You mean to tell me that planking isn’t cool anymore? Apparently not.
7) Two Newlyweds Quit Their Jobs and Leave All Behind to Embark on a Trip of a Lifetime, by Garrett Gossett
This story is equally inspiring and terrifying. To leave it all behind and just hit the road with your soul mate? Ok, I get it. I think my wife and I need to have serious talk.
8) The Solo Surf Trip: A Reflection of Life, by Ryan Watters
Taking a break from it all, to go searching for waves. That beautiful feeling of freedom. There really is nothing like a solo surf trip. Again, I think my wife and I need to have a serious talk.
Photo: Hayden O’Neill
9) 8 Life Lessons Learned From Surfing, by Steve Andrews
Surfing teaches us so much about what it is to live a good life and simply be a good person (in my humble opinion). This is what makes surfing much more than your typical sport. Grasshopper, listen to what the ocean is telling you.
10) 6 Mistakes New Surfers Make and How to Avoid Them, by David Flores
Yes. This one is definitely worth reading if your new to surfing. But, even if you’re not… it’s still good fun.
11) My Surf Trip to Paradise with 2 Playboy Bunnies, by Keala Kennelly
Um. I think it really is all in the title. Thank you, Keala.
Photo: Andreea Waters
12) New York Surfers Live For These Moments, by Andreea Waters
New York, New York! When the lineup lights up like Times Square.
Photo: Surf Snowdonia
13) Surf Snowdonia’s PR Disaster in Wales: Why The Locals Are Angry, by Tom Anderson
Ok, Surf Snowdonia. Now that Kelly has released his wave, can the locals surf your wave?
14) The World’s Most Infamous Surf Gangs, by Dylan Heyden
In the timeless words of Patrick Swayze: “Back off, Warchild.”
Photo: Shutterstock
15) Lest We Forget: 11 Reasons Californians Are Better Than Everyone, by Jacob McCafferty
Wait… is this a joke? I can’t tell if this is a joke or not. Oh well. I’m just gonna go water my sidewalk.
BONUS STORY. Just Cuz.
Photo: Magi Kernan
16) Pretty Portraits: The Beautiful Women of Surfing’s Elite, by Magi Kernan
You’re welcome.
Happy New Year to The Inertia Community! Keep ’em coming!
