Valerio Rossi
Valerio Rossi Zweifel
Valerio is a true waterman and at home wherever waves are breaking. Ten years ago, he showed up at our surf shop without a plan; today, he is a big-wave surfer with courage, drive, and a whole lot of heart. He loves life, doesn't mind surfing in the buff, is always in a good mood, and even takes handling a speargun in a sporty way. That makes it all the better to have him on the team now.
Welcome to the team, Valerio
Year of birth:
1999
Profession:
In training
Hometown:
Zurich
Hobbies:
Surfing • Big-wave surfing • Windsurfing • Pump foiling • Spearfishing • Stand up paddle • Fitness • Endurance training • Reading • Eating a lot
Stance:
Goofy
Boardsports:
Ocean surfing • Wave pool • Wakesurf • Skateboard • Surfskate • Snowboard
Homespot:
Lacona • Il Cantone • Island of Elba
Favourite destination:
Nazaré
Surfboards:
–
Love:
Nonna • Family • Girl • Food • Surfboards
Hate:
Kookery • People who hate other people • dumb vibes
FOLLOW VALERIO ROSSI ON:
Instagram
Tell us a little bit about yourself
My name is Valerio, I’m 24 years old (born 28.01.1999), and I grew up half in Zurich and half on the island of Elba. I am studying at the PHZH to become a primary school teacher. I live for big-wave surfing – even though I’m happy all day with 20 cm waves.
How did you get into surfing?
It all started with the film BIG WEDNESDAY, which I watched when I was 13. Shortly after, I surfed my first wave on Elba – on December 24th, on three old shortboards stacked on top of each other and a 3-meter long windsurf board from the 70s/80s. My goal was clear: to surf the biggest and most beautiful waves. Even as a child, I had a close connection to the sea thanks to my Nonno, who took me underwater to catch octopuses.
How long have you been surfing?
For about 11 years.
What fascinates you about surfing?
Surfing has given my life meaning. Everything revolves around it – education, travel, training... Becoming one with the water, especially in a thick tube, is indescribable. Even away from the waves, I feel most comfortable by the sea – snorkeling, spearfishing, sailing, or SUPing.
One place to surf for the rest of your life?
Nazaré – because this spot is magical and waves from half a meter up to over 30 meters are possible. But if I follow my heart, Elba will always be home.
Inspirations in surfing
Kaluhiokalani Buttons – for me the master of style, creative and perfect in switch. Plus all the big-wave surfers I’ve had the chance to meet: Antonio Silva, Marcio Freire, Maddog, Joao Macedo, Vinicius Dos Santos, Natxo Gonzales… For regular surfing, I like Mike February and Rob Machado.
Favorite surfers
Kaluhiokalani Buttons, Greg Noll
Boards you prefer
For high waves: Guns.
For tubes: Step-ups.
For small or long waves: Fishboards with lots of volume. In general, I love boards with a lot of float.
How does it feel to be a team rider for Surfari?
Fantastic! I bought my first real surfboard at Surfari – being part of the team now fills me with pride.
Surf scene in Switzerland?
Yes, it exists. But I am more active in the Italian scene. In Switzerland, I meet up with a few friends for surf trips.
Biggest challenges in surfing
Preparing for Nazaré, navigating the shorebreak there with a gun, surfing a perfect tube in Italy, or paddling for 45 minutes against a strong current in Levanto during a storm.
Best surf adventure
February in Portugal: 18 days in Nazaré, 20–25 ft waves. My friend Giovanni and I paddled for 40 minutes from the village to the lighthouse. I had a heavy wipeout – but stayed calm, thanks to training.
Surf culture & community
I often find normal surf culture too serious and sometimes unpleasant. With big waves, it’s different: people help each other, there is a sense of brotherhood. I have never met so many fun-loving, likable, and supportive people as I have in the big-wave community.
