The Most Famous Big-wave Surfer, Ranked

Choose the big-wave surfer you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 5, 2024 07:02
Choosing the most renowned big-wave surfer is a task that captures the imagination of fans worldwide. With each surfer possessing unique strengths and memorable experiences on colossal waves, determining who stands out the most helps to clarify the benchmarks within the sport. This process also enriches the community's appreciation for the daredevil skills displayed by these athletes. By participating in this live ranking, viewers have the power to shape the public perception of what it means to excel in this extreme sport. The cumulative votes contribute to a dynamic listing that reflects current admirations and opinions. Engaging with this list not only enhances fan interaction but also pays respect to the athletes who challenge nature’s most formidable waves.

Who Is the Most Famous Big-wave Surfer?

  1. 1
    64
    votes
    Laird Hamilton is regarded as the pioneer of tow-in surfing, Hamilton is widely considered the most famous big-wave surfer in the world. He has ridden some of the biggest waves ever recorded, and his fearless approach to surfing has earned him a reputation as one of the greatest surfers of all time.
  2. 2
    16
    votes
    Garrett McNamara is known for his record-breaking rides, McNamara made history in 2011 when he surfed a 78-foot wave off the coast of Portugal. He has since continued to push the limits of big-wave surfing and has become one of the sport's most recognizable figures.
  3. 3
    33
    votes
    Greg Long is a two-time winner of the Big Wave World Tour, Long is known for his technical ability and his fearless approach to big-wave surfing. He has ridden some of the biggest waves ever recorded and has become a respected figure in the surfing world.
  4. 4
    23
    votes
    Shane Dorian is a former world number two, Dorian is known for his big-wave surfing and his innovative approach to the sport. He has ridden some of the biggest waves ever recorded, including a 57-foot wave at Jaws.
  5. 5
    10
    votes
    Grant "Twiggy" Baker is a multiple winner of the Mavericks surf contest, Baker is known for his fearless approach to big-wave surfing and his ability to read the ocean. He has become one of the most respected big-wave surfers in the world.
  6. 6
    14
    votes
    Ken Bradshaw is a pioneer of big-wave surfing in Hawaii, Bradshaw is known for his fearless approach to riding massive waves. He has ridden some of the biggest waves ever recorded, and his contributions to the sport have helped shape it into what it is today.
  7. 7
    8
    votes
    Jeff Clark - the founder of the Mavericks surf contest, Clark is known for his pioneering role in big-wave surfing. He was the first person to surf the infamous break at Mavericks, and his contributions to the sport have helped make big-wave surfing what it is today.
  8. 8
    5
    votes
    Mark Foo
    Jljfoto · CC BY-SA 3.0
    Mark Foo - one of the most influential big-wave surfers of all time, Foo was known for his fearless approach to surfing and his ability to ride massive waves. He tragically died while surfing at Mavericks in 1994, but his legacy lives on in the surfing world.
    Mark Foo in other rankings
  9. 9
    5
    votes
    Eddie Aikau is a legendary big-wave surfer and lifeguard, Aikau is known for his bravery and his willingness to risk his life to save others. He tragically died while attempting to save the crew of the Hokulea canoe in 1978, but his legacy lives on in the surfing world.
    Eddie Aikau in other rankings
  10. 10
    2
    votes
    Maya Gabeira
    S Pakhrin from DC, USA · CC BY 2.0
    Maya Gabeira is a Brazilian big-wave surfer, Gabeira is known for her fearless approach to surfing and her ability to ride massive waves. She has broken multiple records for women's big-wave surfing and has become one of the most recognizable female surfers in the world.

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous big-wave surfer. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Surfer is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2851 views
  • 175 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Surfer once every 24 hours. The rank of each Surfer is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous big-wave surfer

Big-wave surfing is a sport that requires immense courage, athleticism, and skill. It involves riding waves that are at least 20 feet tall, and sometimes even up to 80 feet. It's no surprise that the surfers who tackle these massive waves are considered some of the most fearless athletes in the world. One of the most iconic big-wave surfing spots is the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii, where surfers from around the globe converge during the winter months in search of the biggest waves. Over the years, many surfers have risen to fame for their daring feats on these waves. But who is the most famous big-wave surfer of them all? That's a question that has sparked debate among surf enthusiasts for years. From legendary surfers like Eddie Aikau and Laird Hamilton to modern-day stars like Maya Gabeira and Kai Lenny, there are many contenders for the title. Ultimately, the answer may come down to personal preference. Some may argue that it's the surfer who has ridden the biggest wave, while others may consider overall skill and impact on the sport. Regardless of who takes the crown, one thing is for certain: big-wave surfing is a sport that will continue to captivate and inspire people for generations to come.

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