Frames: Freesurfing Sunset

Sunset's fury was in full effect as surfers prepped for the Vans World Cup.

Mitch Crews finding some cover at Sunset. The World Championship Tour (WCT) surfer is ranked No. 30 as of the end of the Reef Hawaiian Pro.

Sunset will break boards and WCT qualification dreams. Mitch Coleborn (AUS) knows both scenarios all too well.

Spanish WCT surfer Aritz Aranburu drops his wallet at Sunset.

Brazilian Jadson Andre, who -- as of the Reef Pro -- has requalified for the WCT, enjoying some alone time at Sunset.

Maui native, QS surfer and big wave charger Billy Kemper joined the freesurf crew.

Sunset Beach.

Jesse Mendes (BRA), gouged a big bottom turn at Sunset. In September, Mendes won the Prime-rated SATA Azores Pro.

Aussie Davey Cathels, No. 38 on the QS after Reef, breaking out his power turns when (almost) no one was looking.

Kaimana Jaquias (HAW) found a welcoming section in Sunset's bowl.

Aranburu, bringing his Mundaka grooming to the North Shore.

Aussie Jack Robinson took Sunset head-on. The up-and-comer announced his arrival in August when he took on Teahupo'o for the first time -- and appeared to enjoy every minute.

Mick Fanning (AUS) did some fine-tuning of his quiver for the Billabong Pipe Masters, where he'll be fighting to defend his World Title from fellow contenders Gabriel Medina (BRA) and Kelly Slater (USA).

Fanning, casual at Sunset Beach.

QS No. 26 Torrey Meister (HAW) gave an unofficial rail clinic.

Dorrington, meanwhile, got his froth on.

Fanning showed off the textbook style that has mowed down so many of his opponents.

Amid the heaving outside waves, some glassy interiors.