Andrew Cotton
Andrew Cotton is a professional big wave surfer from Devon, UK, known for riding some of the world’s most dangerous waves – including the giants of Nazaré, Portugal.
His journey hasn’t been without setbacks, from brutal wipeouts to serious injuries, but Andrew’s resilience and mental strength have made him one of the most respected names in the sport. Driven by passion and fearless determination, he continues to push the limits of what’s possible in the water.
Recovery is a vital part of Andrew’s routine. With Chill Tubs, he accelerates recovery, reduces inflammation, and resets both body and mind – helping him stay sharp, strong, and ready for the next wave.
How did you get into surfing?
“I’ve been fortunate to grow up in North Devon. Being on the beach was a daily or weekly habit, and I got into surfing early on. From the moment I caught my first wave, I knew I wanted surfing to be my job or profession somehow. It took a long time, a lot of hard work and dedication, but I’ve somehow managed to pull it off.”
When did you first start using ice baths for recovery?
“It was about 4 or 5 years ago, maybe a bit longer. I’d had a heavy run of surf sessions, and my body was completely beat up. I was aching all over. That’s when I first started getting into ice baths. There was a hotel near Nazaré with a cold plunge, and I began using it in the evenings after long days in the water. I could really feel it helping, reducing muscle soreness, calming inflammation, and helping my body recover for the next day.”
What do you enjoy about using cold water for recovery?
“I weirdly enjoy the suffering, it’s a good kind of suffering. You never really want to get in; I never think, I can’t wait to be freezing cold. But once you push through that mental barrier, control your breathing, and maybe do a few breathwork exercises, you can start to extend the time and play with it. Then, when you get out, there’s this amazing high, that feel-good tingle. It’s a two-tier benefit: you get the physical recovery after surfing or training, but there’s also a big mental benefit. It makes you feel sharp, clear, and energised.”
