As a small, close-knit company, recognition and awards almost serve as validation that our efforts to change the surf industry are on the right track. In the past, being selected by Surf Bunker as the best surf product was an amazing milestone, akin to riding a perfect wave after years trying and failing.

Following that, Surf Europe also recognized us as a product to watch, and later, ISPO Munich gave us the significant opportunity to be featured at the ISPO Brand New section.

With the release of our latest and improved version in 2021, there isn't much more to say about our product. It's simple: a transparent, durable surf grip that doesn't stain or melt into the ocean (or your car). Without much more to say about our product, I started releasing a series of short films about what I believe in, and where Van Der Waal should stand in this industry which, from my perspective, is moving further and further away from the essence of surfing.

This year our film All the way took a honorable mention in Lourinha Surf Film Festival and whas choosen for the Bilbao Surf Film Festival. And I take great pride in these recognitions that may seem insignificant to others but are incredibly important to us. Because more than major awards or being chosen by those who continue to promote the surf industry and its products in the same old way, I prefer to align with the underdogs of the surf world. I am less concerned about the number of followers Federico, Rodrigo Campos, or Tom have, as I appreciate their honest feedback, the chance to exchange ideas about surfing, and the joy and pride they instill in me every time they tag Van der Waal.

This is why, last month, when I attended the Bilbao Surf Film Festival with my daughter to watch the Van Der Waal ethos film ‘All the way’, I felt like I was at the Oscars or at Cannes.