I had a good idea that it was possible, but it really made a big difference having a solid background in skiing and big-wave tow-in surfing to really push it in big waves, Patterson told the Ski Channel. Theres a lot tha...

I had a good idea that it was possible, but it really made a big difference having a solid background in skiing and big-wave tow-in surfing to really push it in big waves, Patterson told the Ski Channel. Theres a lot that goes into making it all happen safely even before you hit the water, and after that is when the fun begins. Gliding into a 40-foot clean, open-faced wave has a lot of the same characteristics that you find when dropping off a cornice into a steep chute with fresh snow, he said. Aside from the surface being water, its almost the same feeling. Once you let go of the rope and glide down the face making turns to stay in the pocket, its totally addicting. Its important to have a really good understanding and respect for the power of the ocean as you would have for the mountains and the backcountry, he said. All waves are different and I find it really important to take your time in studying the lay of the land, always making sure you have a safe exit strategy. It takes time and if you can think outside the box a little, anything is possible.

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