“I’ve heard stories of guys surfing this spot wearing motorcycle leathers because the reef just tears you up.” – Kepa Acero
Basque surfers Kepa Acero, Natxo Gonzalez, and Aritz Aranburu have become the surf equivalent of the Traveling Wilburys in recent years – accomplished surfers and travelers in their own rights, but together something entirely different. Something magical.
Pioneering perfect surf in non-descript desert landscapes and remote, less-than idyllic right-handers in India, the threesome has no shortage of enthusiasm for exploration. Following their trip to India, Kepa and Natxo shot south to the more well-trodden lineups of Indonesia, ultimately surfing a reeling right over dry reef while Aritz went on to other obligations.
That the pair is wearing fullsuits in the tropical latitudes should breathe some context into what for all intents and purposes looks like a pleasant solo session shared between two friends. What the perspective of the camera lacks is just how shallow the water is and how razor sharp the reef is just below the surface.
“We should have had helmets,” says Kepa who paddles out with a neoprene cap. “I’ve heard stories of guys surfing this spot wearing motorcycle leathers because the reef just tears you up. Neither of us felt comfortable out there, even wearing fullsuits, but we’d come so far.”
