It’s one thing to tow into Teahupo’o. It’s an entirely different thing to paddle when it’s tipping the XL scale. A few weeks ago, we brought you Nate Florence’s very special wave during this same session, which is being called the “best” wave ever paddled at Teahupo’o.
“Hands-down, the best wave paddled ever at Teahupo’o in my book,” Kelly Slater told Surfline. “That just sent a warning shot over the surfing world’s bow! Crazy ride. Can’t believe he made it.”
“That’s definitely the heaviest drop ever in Teahupo’o history,” said Sebastian Zeitz. “Looks like a stationary wave — super west and mutated. Gotta be the best Teahupo’o wave ever ridden, probably. When that kind of wave comes in…I don’t think I’ve ever even thought of paddling for a wave like that. But it looks like right before he takes off, there’s no way, but he’s fully committed and makes it. Hey, it’s in his blood — he’s a Florence.”
While Nate’s nasty ride was one for the books, there were a few other mad dogs who deserve a shout, namely Koa Rothman and Kiron Jabour. Here’s Koa, Kiron, and Nathan going ham sandwich during a legendary swell that crushed Tahiti last May.