Australian Ryan Hipwood has gained a reputation as an absolute lunatic in big waves, and after the year he’s had it’s no wonder why.

From nearly drowning twice to getting an XXL Ride of the Year nomination, Hippo has been scouring the globe for the scariest waves fathomable.

Here he talks us through some of his recent highlights and hold-downs:

Ryan Hipwood 2012 from ryan hipwood on Vimeo.