The legendary event and celebration of surf culture kicks off its 11th year by heading to Macumba Beach, one of the world’s most storied surf destinations, for three days of gliding, board shaping and sunshine
Vans Duct Tape is kicking off its 11th season by heading to Brazil — specifically Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Macumba Beach, home to up-and-coming surfers like Yanca Costa and Jasmim Avelino. One part contest, one part community event, one part celebration of surf culture, and one part art experience, the Vans Duct Tape explores surfing, its culture, and its communities from every angle. And what better place to kick off 2023’s Duct Tape Invitational tour than Macumba Beach? Located adjacent to Rio de Janeiro, Macumba is known for its sand-bottom breaks and swells both big and small. It’s an invigorating challenge for the world’s best longboarders, 32 of whom (16 men and 16 women) will compete for a share of a $48,000 purse. The riders will compete in everything from straight heats to shared wave contests and even a paddle race, with each event free for the community to attend.
Another key piece of any Vans Duct Tape is the beauty and craftsmanship of world-class surfboard shaping, and Macumba Beach will see four unique shapers create two masterpieces each. Brazil’s own Pedro Barros (Vans Skate Team) and Jasmin Avelino will be joined by South Africa’s Mikey February and California’s Karina Rozunko. Each maker will handcraft two surfboards inspired by the beauty and history of Macumba Beach.
These eight boards, alongside eight Vans Duct Tape branded soft tops, will be available for Macumba’s community to try out during the event and will then be donated to The Surf Learning & Development Center. Other event highlights include on-site surfboard shaping, a community market with local vendors, a Duct Tape Skateboarding Jam, premieres of two surf films, art workshops, local food and beverages, sustainability workshops, and group beach clean-ups.
The Vans Duct Tape Festival Rio de Janeiro takes place at Macumba Beach from May 12th through May 14th. For a schedule of events and more info, visit vans.com/ducttape.
About Vans
Vans®, a VF Corporation (NYSE: VFC) brand, is the original action sports footwear, apparel, and accessories brand. Vans® authentic collections are sold in 97 countries through a network of subsidiaries, distributors, and international offices. Vans® has over 2,000 retail locations globally including owned, concession and partnership doors. The Vans® brand promotes creative self-expression in youth culture across action sports, art, music, and street culture and delivers progressive platforms such as Vans Checkerboard Day, Vans Park Series, Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, Vans Custom Culture, and Vans’ cultural hub and international music venue, House of Vans.
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