Filipe Toledo’s destiny became a reality when he clinched the 2022 WSL World Title.
He was undeniably the best surfer of 2022; 10 point rides, multiple CT victories, and along the way elevating the way in which surfer’s approach competition in the modern era.
His wizardry on a surfboard is simply mind-blowing. Unmatched in the air and revered for his power, flare and rail work. Dedicated yet humble, ferocious yet considerate, Filipe is as worthy a champion as any before him, and he’s already etched himself as one of the greats of our sport.
Both Mick Fanning and Kelly Slater agreed… Filipe is the fastest surfer they’ve ever seen. And credit needs to be given not only to the athlete, but also the shaper and the equipment that allows him to perform.
It’s worth noting that Filipe’s World Title was won at Trestles on something other than a traditional polyurethane surfboard and thruster fin set up. Welcome to the new age…
By continually leaning into technologies such as the Epoxy/Carbon “Dark Arts” construction along with the Swiss precision engineered FCS II H4 Fin, Filipe is changing the status quo.
“I’m always looking to go faster and surf better. I want my surfing to always be improving and evolving, and I’ve looked to new technologies to achieve this."
Now let’s be clear, the PU/Thruster combo will most likely be forever favoured by the pros, but Filipe’s willingness to draw on innovation truly sets him apart.
In Hawaii, West Oz, Portugal and Brazil we saw Filipe running his signature thruster. Then, at Lowers, Bells and the Surf Ranch, and when the conditions called for it, he switched to the H4 Quad set up. Why? More drive, more speed, more hold, more stability…
“For me it’s about being able to perform at my best and knowing my boards and equipment with take me where my imagination goes”.
Filipe Toledo, we congratulate you for inspiring us, for advancing the sport, for embracing innovation, and of course, for reaching the pinnacle of surfing.
In episode five of Beneath The Surface, we catch up with one of the world's most promising and exciting surfers Crosby Colapinto.
Cros gives us his insights into his favourite fins and why he's now jazzed on riding quads.