Last year Smith spent much of his time traveling with Kai Neville and shooting for his film "Bending Colour," which gave him insight into what it takes to get a good clip. He'll undoubtedly apply that knowledge to Real Surf.

While typically thought of as a world title contender, Smith's free surfing talents are creative and fluid. On a boat trip in Indo or roaming the South African countryside, Smith surfs for all right reasons.

By and large pro surfing is a small man's game, which makes Smith standout further. It's not easy getting 190 pounds above the lip like this.

“"In many circles, Jordy's surfing at Lowers last year set the benchmark for performance power surfing with a purpose," says Shea Lopez.

The South Pacific has been the Achilles' heel of Smith. That's not to say he can grab a rail and set a line, but his results are lacking.

The ASP World Tour season kicks off at the Quiksilver Pro at Snapper Rocks, Australia. Historically Smith's had success there, and he's going into this year's event looking to springboard himself into the world title hunt.

With all of his tricks, slides and airs, Smith's surfing's rooted around rail work. "We’re still waiting for a committed, consistent, injury free year out of one of surfing's truly gifted athletes,” says Lopez.