American · Ventura, USA · Born 21 August 1985American professional surfer known for innovative aerial maneuvers and progressive surfing style, competing on the World Championship Tour.
Born in Long Beach, California, on August 21, 1985, this revolutionary surfer grew up in Ventura County, where he was shaped by the diverse waves of Southern California's coast. Reynolds developed his distinctive style surfing the varied breaks around his hometown, from the point breaks of Ventura to the beach breaks that would later inform his aerial innovations. Reynolds emerged as a professional competitor in the mid-2000s, quickly establishing himself on the World Championship Tour with performances that challenged conventional surfing approaches. His competitive career peaked between 2007 and 2010, during which he secured multiple event victories and consistently ranked among the world's top surfers. However, his most significant career decision came in 2010 when he voluntarily withdrew from full-time competition on the Championship Tour, choosing instead to pursue creative expression through freesurfing. His aerial repertoire revolutionized modern surfing, introducing combinations and variations that expanded the technical vocabulary of the sport. Reynolds pioneered numerous maneuvers above the lip, seamlessly blending power surfing with progressive aerial techniques. Beyond his technical innovations, he helped establish video parts as legitimate artistic expressions in surf culture, collaborating with filmmakers to create influential segments that prioritized creativity over competition results. His work with various surf film projects elevated the medium's artistic standards and influenced how surfing performances are documented and appreciated. Reynolds' decision to prioritize freesurfing over competitive achievement represented a cultural shift in professional surfing, demonstrating that alternative career paths could coexist with traditional championship pursuits. His influence extended beyond technique to encompass surfing's creative possibilities, inspiring a generation of surfers to view waves as canvases for artistic expression rather than merely competitive venues. His approach legitimized freesurfing as a viable professional path and contributed to the sport's evolution toward greater creative diversity and individual expression.
Revolutionary aerial surfing and progressive maneuvers
How They Played
Progressive, aerial-focused surfing with innovative maneuvers and creative approach
Lasting Impact
Transformed modern surfing with innovative aerial techniques and influenced a generation of surfers
Career Honours
- ASP World Tour Triple Crown of Surfing Winner 2009
- Surfer Poll Award No. 1 Surfer in the World 2009
- Surfer Poll Award No. 1 Surfer in the World 2010
- Surfer Poll Award No. 1 Surfer in the World 2011
- ASP World Tour Event Winner at Quiksilver Pro France 2009
- ASP World Tour Event Winner at Quiksilver Pro France 2010
- Transworld Surf Awards Surfer of the Year 2009
- Transworld Surf Awards Surfer of the Year 2010
- Transworld Surf Awards Surfer of the Year 2011
American Athletes