Steven Sawyer joins RYD

2018 WSL World Longboard champ Steven Sawyer has signed with emerging surf accessories and all-round fun brand RYD.

Steven Sawyer has signed with RYD on a long-term deal that will see the reigning WSL World Longboard champ use fins, traction and board bags. The South African longboard maestro joins Caio Ibelli as RYD’s two flagship team riders.

[caption id="attachment_2768" align="alignright" width="300"] All smiles for Steven Sawyer and RYD; Photo: Andrew Carruthers[/caption]

“We are really excited to see the #RYDtribe growing and are looking for the guys who are just out there having the most fun being super stoked on life,” said Barend Buys Director of RYD Brand. “Stevie is that guy, in and out of the water! Of course, we are really stoked that he is the reigning world longboard champ and proudly representing South Africa (where RYD was born), but that really is not what it is all about for us at RYD,” he said.

“Good vibes and good rides - that’s all a surfer wants,” Sawyer commented. “I feel the vibe and lifestyle RYD carries and it’s pure. I’m very stoked to be a part of the #RYDtribe.”

Sawyer is currently recovering from injury which has sidelined him from the Pantin Longboard Classic, he is however jetting to the States next week, before returning to South Africa mid-October to prepare to defend his world title in Taiwan in November.

While competitive results are where the RYD products will ultimately be proven, results are very much secondary to the partnership between Sawyer and RYD. Much like with Ibelli.

[caption id="attachment_2769" align="alignleft" width="300"] Steven Sawyer riding with RYD; Photo: Steven Sawyer[/caption]

“I’m currently working on some fin designs with RYD,” said the 25-year-old. Sawyer is no stranger to board and fin design, having practically grown up in his father, Des Sawyer’s shaping bay in Jeffrey’s Bay. “I’m excited to do more R&D on all the shapes, flex and weight materials especially on Californian waves,” Sawyer added.

“I enjoy the comforts of a leash at times especially for keeping my board in the water and not at the ding doctor. I have never worn a leash this comfy!” he said.

Follow Stevie’s journey on his Instagram channel and learn more about RYD products here.

Feature Image: Mark Morgan.