http://storify.com/EdBrooke/surfing-in-the-united-kingdom

Did you know the biggest wave ever ridden by a surfer had been nearly 30 metres on the face?
Pro surfer Garrett McNamara credits his wealth of experience, sponsorships and his pro level surf gear to be able to surf the huge wave.
Without having the state-of-the-art surfing equipment it's almost certain the ride
would have been too unpredictable and pose a potential hazard for the surfer.