But knowing how the internet loves a shitstorm (shower scene trailer for an ASP event anyone!?) Coco Ho (who side point: is one of our favourite surfers) has done some pre-publication interviews to answer any concerns her fans (we’re guessing the female ones, not too many dudes likely to complain) might have with the shots.

Coco spoke to The Inertia and had this to say: (another side point: this is a rad interview though I’m not mad about their definition of the ‘typical surfer’s body’ as being ‘widely recognised as hot and sexy‘ in the intro, as surely a surfer’s body is just the body of someone who surfs, and the worry is their words bestow an exclusivity on the sport based on body shape which may put off some kids/teens/adults even from getting into the sport or just make them feel bad about themselves but anyways…)

On her reaction to seeing surfers in past ESPN Body issues:

I don’t see the “in-your-face” sexuality about the ESPN “The Body Issue” — if anything, I see the integrity in ESPN as a whole and think of it as something so prestigious, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. So when I seen Kelly, Maya, and Steph’s, the only thought that registered was: “This is sick, this is the only nude shoot I’d ever do!”

On whether she was proud, excited or nervous about it (this is a great answer love this!):

I am extremely proud! I’m proud of myself, one, for being comfortable in my skin to do it, and, two, for embracing my strength as beauty and as an athlete.

On whether she expects any flack for doing the shoot:

There is a lot of talk about the way women are portrayed in surf, and it’s a very fine line. If I do get flack, it’s for the wrong reasons: I am photographed alongside Michael Phelps, Venus Williams, etc., etc., showcasing my body as an athlete – not lying on a bed. Big difference.