The Nixon Surf Challenge is preparing to return to the cold in less than 10 days when it heads to Iceland from May 13-19, 2013 for the 12th edition of this unique mobile surf event.

A bunch of Nixon team riders have already confirmed their attendance, psyched at the prospect of experiencing Iceland’s unique and mystical natural environment. Known as one of the most volcanically active locations in the world, Iceland’s hypnotically beautiful coastline is also home to incredible waves.

France’s Marc Lacomare, already itching to pull into Iceland’s freezing barrels, is looking to defend the overall title he claimed in such emphatic style at last year’s event, held in the altogether warmer waters of La Graciosa in the Canary Islands.

Lacomare will be in good company when he steps off the plane in Reykjavik, with a number of compatriots also on board. Big wave chargers Benjamin Sanchis and Eric Rebière are crossing their fingers the event coincides with a monster swell, while Miky Picon is looking to repeat his triumphant cold-water performance at the Nixon Surf Challenge 2011 in the Lofoten Islands of Norway.

Another rider packing his bags for Iceland is the Canaries’ own Jonathan Gonzales, who picked up the Best Trick award in his own backyard last year. Fellow Iberian surfers and Nixon team riders Gony Zubizarreta and Jose Maria Cabrera are also signed up, and all three will need to adapt quickly to the freezing water temperatures.

One man more used to the cold is Fergal Smith – no stranger to beefy Atlantic swells that smash into the west coast of Ireland every winter. Other surfers joining the party next week include Marlon Lipke and Australia’s Chippa Wilson, as well as Reef team riders Vincent Duvignac and Kepa Acero.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to surf in some of the world’s most remote and cold locations,” said Kepa. “From Antarctica to Alaska, the spirit of exploration you feel in these places is something incredible. When I heard The Nixon Surf Challenge was heading to Iceland, I knew I wanted to be part of the experience – bring it on!”