Hey Dibi: Should Ebikes Be Banned At Trestles?

Editor’s Note: Have a question for Dibi Fletcher? She’s definitely got answers. Or at least a perspective. Don’t hold back, shoot her a DM on Instagram and ask away. Here’s this week’s dispatch from the Matriarch of Radical…

Hey Dibi: My partner chases some of the heaviest waves in the world. I’m proud of him, but the constant danger drives me crazy. How do I support his passion without losing my mind? - MsPsych
Most of the extreme athletes who pursue the big wave challenge are very aware of the risk and train intensely. Incorporating breathing techniques to be able to handle the hold downs and using state-of-the-art equipment. They have strong bonds with their tow partners who are instrumental in critical situations. They are as prepared as possible when the swells happen, that said, if you have reservations, stay home, you don’t want him trying to assuage your fears when he needs to be completely focused.  Enjoy the videos of his waves he shares with you on his safe return. He’ll be thrilled to relive every second of the exhilarating experience.

Hey Dibi: I’ve got an idea for a surf related product, but I’m nervous about taking a leap. How do I know if it’s worth risking my savings? - SrfPd123
The cost of a startup is extremely expensive. I would first see if there’s anything in the market like it or if it would be a great compliment to another product already established. I would then call every company that you feel could be a good fit and try to make an appointment to see someone face to face. If you think it’s worth investing your savings, it’s sure worth doing the leg work to speak with everyone who might be able to partner with you to bring your product to market.

Hey Dibi: I was on top of the world during my surfing career, but now that it’s over, I feel kinda’ lost. How do I transition into a job in the industry? - NoPro
Not so long ago there were opportunities after competitive surfing to work at one of the various surf companies. The knowledge gained on the tour made it an easy transition to work with the company team while you learned about the business and hopefully found your niche in the corporate environment. Now, there aren’t the big companies that can afford to take on and train the surfers, the smaller startups may have something available that can use your expertise, but after the recent decimation I think it’s worth considering a skilled trade. There are scholarships available, you can make a good living and there’s job security. Something worth considering while you’re now at crossroad.

Hey Dibi: I’m living the dream, surf trips to Bali, Mentawais, the North Shore, but it feels like I’m just chasing photos for Instagram. How do I get the surf feeling back? -Trvlr
Before social media the companies or the magazines hired a photographer to shoot for a campaign or a feature, now all the surfers are their own photographers and are expected to post regularly and “tag” their sponsors. I’d like to say “put the phone down” but I assume it’s part of the reason you’re able to afford the travel. In other words, it’s part of the surfer’s job description. As far as that goes, it sounds like a small sacrifice to make to be able to travel the world surfing. Enjoy it while you can!

Hey Dibi: I’ve been skating more than surfing lately because it’s easier to get sessions in. It’s hard to find other surfers to skate with and none of the people I skate with surf. Is that how it usually is, or is it just me? - SurfSk8
I believe there’s probably more crossover now than when my kids were growing up. But it’s still not the norm, with only a few events that include surf, skate and snowboarding. Most people seemed to focus on one to become proficient. Just keep it up and I’m sure you’ll have no problem finding others to hang out with and enjoy whatever it is you decide to do at the time.

Hey Dibi: I used to go to Trestles, and it had a crowd, but now with electric bikes it’s insane. Do you think they should be banned? - WlkIn
I agree that electric bikes have certainly changed Trestles. They make it way more crowded and walking on the path has become hazardous as not all the drivers practice good driving etiquette. I personally preferred it pre-electric bike, but with the hoards of people riding in I don’t see it ever going back.