Tracks regularly put top international and local pros like Matt Hoy, Mark Occhilupo, Taj Burrow, Joel Parkinson, and Mick Fanning on their covers, showcasing a shift towards competitive surfing and new, progressive maneuvers like aerials.

Print Media Dominance

Print was still a major force, and surf magazines were filled with high-quality surf photography (shot on slide film before digital took over) and cheeky cover lines. They documented the surf tour, covered local surf spots, and featured lifestyle aspects of the culture.

Despite the high level of talent, female surfers faced immense discrimination. The culture was a "boys' club" where women were often relegated to surfing in poor or non-existent waves during competitions, while the best conditions were reserved for men. Prize money disparity was vast, with women earning a fraction of what their male counterparts did.

Tracks however, featured Pam Burridge on the cover in 1990 following her World Title win, a significant moment of recognition for her achievement. Other Australian world champions of the era, like Wendy Botha and Pauline Menczer, were also pictured on covers throughout the early to mid-90s.

With the internet still in its infancy, surf movies were the main way to consume high-performance surfing. Directors like Taylor Steele (US-based, but internationally influential) and Australia's own Jack McCoy and Justin Gane (who released the classic Pulse in 1996) produced a high volume of content that shaped the visual culture of surfing. These films showcased a mix of power surfing and new school tricks, putting Australian talent on a global pedestal.