Surfers are often regarded for their dedication to the waves, willing to paddle out in even the most abysmal conditions if there’s the promise of good swell. Behind the face of every wave a surfer carves down is plenty of paddling, waiting, wiping out, cold mornings, treacherous encounters. When you spend that much time in the ocean you start to feel a connection to it. When you do it with others, you start to feel a connection to them.