The Volcom Pipe Pro is a 3-star $75,000 WQS at Pipeline. And the reason it’s so watchable is the variety of competitors. Locals, groms, specialists, Hos, Irons, Slaters and Florences. It’s a chance to see what a variety of dudes can do in the big stuff at Pipe. That, and it’s not commentated on eggshells. You don’t have to be told what a barrel is while watching. Or that left foot forward means regularfoot.

The contest waiting period started yesterday and aside from a few days of strong side shore winds to start the period, the next two weeks of swells are stacked up and it’s bound to be a classic. Stay tuned to the webcast homepage here. 

Watch some of last year’s highlights, capped with a Kelly Slater win here: