Surfing – With No Surfboard (Absolutely Stunning) there are no other words for it that this vides make surfing look even cooler than we thought it already was. Take away the surfboard and show this to any of your friends who want to know what surfing feels like and NOW THEY WILL KNOW…. the modern day God amongst men, walking on water gliding over the best the ocean waves have to offer as a surfboard manufacturer we can only be inspired to keep pushing to make the worlds first invisible surfboard. Surfboards of the future right here.
NARCY LONGBOW SUP REVIEW our SUP Team rider Narcy has been riding with us since our very inception he was one of the first people to try every one of our sups and helped create and refine many of o our designs today. Narcy has been stand up paddle boarding for many...
The swell chart war looking good and the conditions were perfect to take the Widowmaker surf sup out for a few small waves at our local break in east wittering a local surf sup hub for paddlers who like to get their weekly wintery fix of waves and paddling. The...
The Surf was pumping and the sun was out what more could you want on a February weekend. This weekend was one of the best swells we have seen on the south coast all winter and was an absolute score for waves with 17 second swell period ad 2-3 foot it was perfect...
Last Saturday We had the pleasure of meeting up with Tony and Gemma from TJ Board hire who run local SUP lessons and rentals as well as trips and excursions around West Sussex. We met up to trial our first SUP Race Session designed to encourage paddler looking for...
JOSS REVIEWTeam Rider Joss Brooks has been as SBS Team rider since 2017 and has been surfing around the Newquay area all his life Jose surfs mostly high performance shortboards so was defiantly the man for the job when it cam to reviewing our detonator model. Joss...
UK Surfer Longboarder Lewis Stritch give us the run down on what hes been up to. Our Team riders Lewis Stritch is a local from Bude in Cornwall and has been surfing since the age he could stand Lewis surfs all kind of boards but favours the long board has his true...
Barra De La Cruz When: April—October Where: “Barra” as it’s called, is located 30 minutes from Huatulco in Oaxaca, Mexico. Why: Unveiled to the surfing world during the epic Rip Curl Search event years ago, with ideal wind, swell direction, tide, and sandbars, Barra De La Cruz is one of the best right-handers in the world with both barrel and turn sections galore. Local Knowledge: Bring some surf gear to the locals—your kindness could pay off in the form of set waves. And you didn’t hear it from us, but the whole state of Oaxaca is loaded with excellent surf, and thanks to an article in Surfing Magazine that pissed off the locals, no pros with photographers for the next two years.
Lower Trestles When: April—October Where: On the border of Orange and San Diego County in SoCal. Why: A long right and quick, rampy left, Lowers is commonly known as one of the most rippable waves in the world. Local Knowledge: Beat the crowd by surfing on a Sunday afternoon.
Jeffrey’s Bay When: April—September Where: 45 miles from Port Elizabeth on the southern tip of South Africa. Why: In a world filled with perfect rights, J-Bay stands at the top of the list. Local Knowledge: Don’t drop in on the guys wearing white jerseys over their wetsuits and time your entry or else you’ll be smashed into the rocks.
Macaronis When: April—October Where: In the southern part of the Mentawai Island chain off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. Why: With a barrel off the takeoff followed by a long, smashable wall, it is hands down the most rippable wave in the world. Local Knowledge: Get photo and video of yourself here—you’ll never surf better than out at Maccas.
Malibu When: Year-round but best in the summer months. Where: The quaint little slice of heaven known as Los Angeles. Why: Yeah it’s crowded as all hell and you’ll probably get run over by Matthew McConaughey’s SUP but where else can you surf in the shadow of Miki Dora and California’s pioneers? Local Knowledge: You can drop in on anyone except Allen Sarlo. Movie stars especially are fair game. Malibu.
Restaurants When: Can break anytime but most consistent April—October. Where: Tavarua, Fiji. Why: One of the most perfect left tubes on the planet. On the right wave, you literally sit in the barrel the entire length of the wave. Local Knowledge: Don’t fall! The bottom at Restaurants is sharp, shallow, and littered with watches, jewelry, fins, skin, and probably a few GoPro cameras.
Snapper Rocks When: February—July Where: Coolangatta on the Gold Coast of Australia. Why: Yeah it’s insanely crowded but it’s also one of the longest, most shred-friendly rights on the planet. Local Knowledge: Don’t go during the Quiksilver Pro in late February/early March. Sit by the rocks, be aggressive, and you’ll get one eventually.
Pipeline When: October—April Where: Smack dab in the middle of the “Seven Mile Miracle” on the North Shore of Oahu. Why: With the intensely regulated lineup and fiery locals you won’t get the best waves, but just paddling out at Pipe is a rush in and of itself. Local Knowledge: Surf before the sun comes up for your best shot at a good one out there.
Rincon When: October—March Where: Central California near the little town of Carpentaria. Why: Because it’s “The Queen Of The Coast” and the best right in California. Local Knowledge: Don’t let the crowd dissuade you, start at the top of the point and find your sweet spot in that mass of humanity.
Teahupo‘o When: April—September Where: The end of the road on the island of Tahiti. Why: To get the barrel of your life. Local Knowledge: While the mags generally portray “Chopes” as the deadliest wave in the world, at four foot and the right swell direction, it’s ridiculous how tubed you can get without fear of dying.
NARCY LONGBOW SUP REVIEW our SUP Team rider Narcy has been riding with us since our very inception he was one of the first people to try every one of our sups and helped create and refine many of o our designs today. Narcy has been stand up paddle boarding for many...
The swell chart war looking good and the conditions were perfect to take the Widowmaker surf sup out for a few small waves at our local break in east wittering a local surf sup hub for paddlers who like to get their weekly wintery fix of waves and paddling. The...
The Surf was pumping and the sun was out what more could you want on a February weekend. This weekend was one of the best swells we have seen on the south coast all winter and was an absolute score for waves with 17 second swell period ad 2-3 foot it was perfect...
Last Saturday We had the pleasure of meeting up with Tony and Gemma from TJ Board hire who run local SUP lessons and rentals as well as trips and excursions around West Sussex. We met up to trial our first SUP Race Session designed to encourage paddler looking for...
JOSS REVIEWTeam Rider Joss Brooks has been as SBS Team rider since 2017 and has been surfing around the Newquay area all his life Jose surfs mostly high performance shortboards so was defiantly the man for the job when it cam to reviewing our detonator model. Joss...
UK Surfer Longboarder Lewis Stritch give us the run down on what hes been up to. Our Team riders Lewis Stritch is a local from Bude in Cornwall and has been surfing since the age he could stand Lewis surfs all kind of boards but favours the long board has his true...
Stretching before and especial after a surf session is vital for getting the best out of your surfing performance, The best stretches for surfers should help in a range of movements as well as better long-term contractions of your muscles which will help to decrease the risk of cramping up or injury.
It’s also crucial to your recovery from surfing as will help your muscles to recover quicker and be ready for the next surf. Its important to keep in mind to do very light stretching before a surf and try to maximize the time to 7-10 seconds per stretch, Longer stretches should be done after a surf, slowly bringing your muscles back to a normal state. When stretching after your surf, try to hold the stretch for a minimum of 12-15 seconds.
Stretch: Side Neck stretch
How to perform:S tart with your shoulders relaxed, gently tilt your head towards your shoulder. Assist stretch with a gentle pull on the side of the head if need be.
Stretch: Static Overhead stretch
How to perform:S tanding straight up, start with your hand by your waist and slowly bring them above your head. Keep your shoulders down as you extend your arms upand holf as hight as you can for 12-15 seconds.
Stretch: Static chest stretch
How to perform: Stand with your hands together, arms extended directly in front of you. This will be your starting position. Keeping your arms straight, for 12-15 seconds then move your arms back as far as possible and hold them together as straight as you can for 12-15 seconds.
Stretch: lying cross over “knee across body”
How to perform: Lie on your back with your legs extended. Cross one leg over your body with the knee bent, attempting to touch the knee to the ground. Your partner should kneel beside you, holding your shoulder down with one hand and controlling the crossed leg with the other. This will be your starting position. Attempt to raise the bent knee off of the ground as your partner prevents any actual movement. relax the leg repeat with the other side.
Stretch: Cross over reverse lunge
How to perform: Stand with your feet shoulder width apart. This will be your starting position. Perform a rear lunge by stepping back with one foot and flexing the hips and front knee. As you do so, rotate your torso across the front leg. After a brief pause, return to the starting position and repeat on the other side, continuing in an alternating fashion.
Stretch: High Lunge
How to perform: . High Lunge: Benefits: Stretches and strengthens your legs, especially thighs, knees, ankles and psoas muscle; opens the groins and hips, and lengthens the spine. Benefits: Stretches and strengthens your legs, especially thighs, knees, ankles and psoas muscle; opens the groins and hips, and lengthens the spine.
Benefits: Releases tight hips, hamstrings and back muscles.
Stretch: Standing Toe Touch
How to perform: Stand with some space in front and behind you. Bend at the waist, keeping your legs straight; until you can relax and let your upper body hang down in front of you. Let your arms and hands hang down naturally. Hold for 10 to 20 seconds.
Improves the flexibility of the spine which is important for long paddle outs. stretches the shoulders and the backs of the legs, which will allow your surfing stance to be more relaxed.
Stretch: Hip gluteus stretch
How to perform: The gluteus are dominant in most lower-body power moves. Go to the bottom of a lunge and place your back knee on the ground. Slide your front foot forward and drop the knee out to the side. Place your hands on the ground on either side of the foot. Lower your chest towards the ground. Lean down further to increase the stretch. Hold for 12-15 seconds then change.
Stretch: Back Stretch/ Cat Stretch/ Kneeling Quad Stretch / On Your back Quad Stretch
How to perform:
Start with your hand on the floor shoulder with apart in a kneeling position; slowly maintain the actual natural curve from the spine, down their back. Hold the stretch for 12-15 seconds.
Start with yourself on the floor on your hands and knees. Pull your belly in and round your spine, lower back, shoulders, and neck, letting your head drop. Hold for 15 seconds.
Kneel on the floor, holding your heels with both hands. Push your buttocks up and forward while bringing your head back to look up at the ceiling, to give an arch in your back. hold for 12-15 seconds.
Lie flat on the floor, and hang one leg and arm over the side. Bend the knee and hold the top of the foot. As you do this, be careful not to arch your lower back.
Stretch: Standing Knee To Chest
How to perform: Helps to relieve tight hip muscles and lower back and increase the range of motion particulary helping flexing of the knee, start in a balanced standing position gently raise one bent knee up enough so you can grasp your lower leg with both hands. Gently pull your bent knee toward your trunk using your hands. Relax your legs, pelvis and low back as much as you can while you pull. Hold for 12-15 seconds return leg to the floor, repeat on other side.
Stretch: Standing Quadriceps
How to perform: Boat Pose: Benefits: Strengthens your core, and helps with deep breathing.
Stretch: Spiderman stretch
How to perform: helps mobilize the hips and the spine helping in the popup and turning. Start with your feet together and hand in a “T” shape by your side and lunge forward.
Stretch: Extended arm & shoulder stretch
How to perform: Start in a standing position with your fingers clasped together and thumbs pointing down push as hard to the floor as you can and slowly move your braced arms in front of your chest then up to the sky. Disconnect your finger briefly as you then reconnect behind your back making a wide circular motion. For an extra stretch lean forward.
Stretch: Triceps stretch
How to perform: Reach your hand behind your head, grasp your elbow and gently pull. Hold for 10 to 20 seconds, and then switch sides.
Stretch: Shoulder stretch
How to perform: Reach your left arm across your body and hold it straight. With your right hand, grasp your left elbow and pull it across your body towards your chest.
Stretch: Standing lateral stretch
How to perform: Arch side – Slowly reach one arm over your head, keeping your arms in line with the hips. Take a slightly wider than hip distance stance with your knees slightly bent. Place your right hand on your right hip to support the spine.
Raise your left arm in a vertical line and place your left hand behind your head. Keep it there as you incline your torso to the right. Keep your weight evenly distributed between both legs (don’t lean into your left hip). Switch sides.
Stretch: Foot twirl
How to perform: Lift the right leg in the air (just around 2 inches from the floor) and perform a circular motion with the big toe. Pretend that you are drawing a big circle with it. Tip: One circle equals 1 repetition. Breathe normally as you perform the movement. When you are done with the right foot repeat with the left leg.
Stretch: Standing hamstring and calf stretch
How to perform: Hamstrings – The hamstring stretch is a great post surfing stretch, use it very lightly as a pre surf movement. Sit up straight on an exercise mat. Bend one knee and put that foot on the floor to stabilize the torso. Straighten your other leg and flex your ankle. Using a band, towel, or your hand if you can reach, pulls the toes toward you. Hold for 10 to 20 seconds, and then switch sides.
Stretch: Alternative To touches
How to perform: stand with your feet slightly wider than shoulder width apart bend down and try and touch your left foot with your right arm and then switch and repeat with the other foot do 8-10 reps.
Stretch: Torso Rotations
How to perform: Stand upright holding an exercise ball with both hands. Extend your arms so the ball is straight out in front of you. This will be your starting position. Rotate your torso to one side, keeping your eyes looking at your hands and hold for 12-15 seconds. Now, rotate back to the opposite direction. Repeat for 10-20 repetitions.
NARCY LONGBOW SUP REVIEW our SUP Team rider Narcy has been riding with us since our very inception he was one of the first people to try every one of our sups and helped create and refine many of o our designs today. Narcy has been stand up paddle boarding for many...
The swell chart war looking good and the conditions were perfect to take the Widowmaker surf sup out for a few small waves at our local break in east wittering a local surf sup hub for paddlers who like to get their weekly wintery fix of waves and paddling. The...
The Surf was pumping and the sun was out what more could you want on a February weekend. This weekend was one of the best swells we have seen on the south coast all winter and was an absolute score for waves with 17 second swell period ad 2-3 foot it was perfect...
Last Saturday We had the pleasure of meeting up with Tony and Gemma from TJ Board hire who run local SUP lessons and rentals as well as trips and excursions around West Sussex. We met up to trial our first SUP Race Session designed to encourage paddler looking for...
JOSS REVIEWTeam Rider Joss Brooks has been as SBS Team rider since 2017 and has been surfing around the Newquay area all his life Jose surfs mostly high performance shortboards so was defiantly the man for the job when it cam to reviewing our detonator model. Joss...
UK Surfer Longboarder Lewis Stritch give us the run down on what hes been up to. Our Team riders Lewis Stritch is a local from Bude in Cornwall and has been surfing since the age he could stand Lewis surfs all kind of boards but favours the long board has his true...
So you got the bug and you decided to buy your first surfboard you have a couple of goes and looking to make that first purchase and commit to the surfing life style, but what one to buy?, One of the most common questions asked by beginners. Whatever your level of surfing experience, is getting the right board for your skill level, this is crucial to you progression in surfing
Surfing is personal to everyone and with today’s ever increasing variety in choice of boards, styles and materials, It can be difficult to pinpoint your perfect board. Below we have given you a rough board guide to what boards would be suitable for your progression subject to personal interpretation, depending on how much you surf.
When buying a surfboard it’s always a good idea to try to get some expert advice either from a surf coach/instructor a local board shop or an experience friend as they will be able to gauge a better idea of you surfing level, local conditions and needs. This being said whenever buying a new board it good to keep in mind 3 key principles that will make a big difference to your surfing success
Rocker
A higher or increased nose rocker is usually attributed to boards designed for bigger-more hallow waves. More rocker in the nose allows for a shape that will not “pearl” or plunge into a large, steep wave face when you dropping in were as a flatter more relaxed rocker will help the board to plane quicker and more efficiently, but it will reduce manoeuvrability and increase chance of pearling on take off.
Increased tail rocker can be found in boards shaped for optimal manoeuvrability. A tail that bends off of the water’s surface provides more lift and sensitivity in the tail for driving through radical turns.
Generally speaking, on your standard surfboard, less overall center rocker means the board will glide and paddle better and be more suitable for beginners. More rocker will accommodate intermediate and experienced surfers looking to use every area of the board in order to generate speed and turning power. Aggressive surfers may seek more rocker in their bigger wave boards because the curvature of the nose allows for late drops on consequential waves.
Volume
Volume: the amount of space a surfboard occupies, usually expressed in cubic litres (i.e., 35 CL’s). Basically, the surfboards [length x width x thickness] will yield the volume of a surfboard. However, the key to the placement of the volume, as well as the surfboard’s foil, affects the overall volume of a surfboard greatly.
Volume at its fundamentals can be displaced in a variety of ways in a surfboard e; a 6’6 good wave shortboard can easily have less volume than a 5’6 groveller surfboard. Knowing the right volume for you – a subjective combination of personal preference, body weight, experience, age, fitness, skill level, riding style, etc. – will ensure that you don’t buy a surfboard with too much or too little volume.
To get a rough guide on the volume you need check out our volume calculator
Too little volume on your board means you won’t catch as many waves and will have trouble generating speed this is because of increasing resistance (Drag). Too much volume means the board will feel bulky, hard to transition and turn. But will have less drag and be easier to paddle and catch waves as well as achieving planning speed with less velocity. The more drag you have, the less acceleration you’ll have. Surfers know this intuitively. How many waves have you paddles for and missed just barely, by a half stroke? With a little more volume and little less rocker to help with speed Imagine how many more waves you can catch.
Length
Length of a surfboard is the distance from the nose to the tail of a board. Length can be hugely critical to a surfer’s progression as many beginners make the classic mistake of buying a board too short for them limiting their progression and success in surfing
A few other Considerations to think about when buying a board…
Durability– as a beginner you may hit things with your board or fall on it, so you want to make sure that your board is durable
Practicality will it fit in your car, do you have some were to store it
Manoeuvrability– being able to hold you board under your arm or on your hard and even the right weight can all affect manoeuvrability in and out of the water
Progression– if you’re lucky and are planning on surfing every day think about buying a board that you can progress with. Or if you’re going to surf 1-2 times a year think about a board that will allow you to have fun for in that time.
Fins – as a beginner 3 fins (thruster set up) or a single fins will be adequate also make sure that your fins match the fin boxed of your board i.e. (FCS, Future fins)
So what should I look for?
Length
This is pretty important between 6’8″ to 8 ft long as a beginner “depending on your height”. Try to keep it about a foot to a foot and a half taller than you.
Width
Wider the better. The wider the surfboard the more stable it will be the easier it will be to ride and stand, anything from 20 to 22 inches across, you want to be able sort of fit it underneath your arm, of course this won’t be possible if you got short arms.
Thickness This is important because the thicker the surfboard the more buoyant it is and it will be easier to paddle. Stay within 2-1/4 to 3 inches thick dependent on your weight.
If you are a small person then the thickness can be around 2 to 2 1/2 inches
If you are average size then go for something 2 1/2 to 2 3/4 inches.
If you are a big dude then 3 inches should float you.
Don’t get something to big and thick because then you will have a very hard time maneuvering it around.
A rough guide to what surfboards would-be a good idea
“I only surf 1-2 days a year” = Foamboard
“I surf about 5-7 days a year” = Foamboard, Longboard, Minimal
“I surf at least once a month” = Longboard, Minimal, Magic Carpet
“I surf a few days a month” = Longboard, Minimal, Magic Carpet or Fish big shortboard, Grovler.
“I surf every week” = Longboard, Minimal, Magic Carpet, Fish or Big Shortboard, Grovler performance shortboard
Best Surfboard for a beginner.
Depending on you height weight and skill level you will want something with the following quality’s
Long
Wide
High volume (depending on your weight and weight) Check our Volume calculator to find your perfect volume (Button )
stable
easy to catch waves
easy to paddle
easy to control
A great first time beginner board would be either a “soft top” or a “mini mall” board.
Choosing the right surfboard for you
Foam Board/ Foamie: Length 7ft – 9ft
Pros
Cheap to buy (Lost of secondhand surf school boards available)
Soft Safe – if it hits you won’t hurt like a hard board
You can surf white-water
Easy to catch most waves
Perfect for surfers surfing one or twice a year
Cons
Weight – holding can be quite difficult for big and heavy
Larger boards harder to transport
Can absorb a lot of water
Not much cheaper than hard surfboards
Not ideal for surfing over shoulder-high waves
Can be difficult to paddle out on when surf is bigger
Wont last as long as a fiberglass or epoxy boards.
Longboard: Length 8ft – 9ft+
Pros
Fast track progression, your learning to surf a hard board
More responsive, faster and more maneuverable than foam boards
Can learn to do longboard moves – like cross stepping, hanging 5 etc
Able to surf in bigger waves above head high
Holds its re-sale value well.
Always great to have a longboard for smaller summer conditions.
Cons
Difficult to fit in most cars if it’s over 8ft
Heavier and bulky to carry item to carry
Hard surfboard means it’s going to hurt more than a foam board if it hits you
Can be more difficult to catch waves than a foam board
Can be difficult to transport on airplanes because of their length
Good for unbroken ‘green’ waves not as great in the whitewater
Mini-Mal Surfboards: Length 7’0 – 8’0
Pros
Smaller than longboard, easier to carry
Fits in to most small cars
Easier to paddle out in bigger surf than a large foam board
Likely to progress your surfing a little faster and improve paddle fitness
Epoxy versions can be very durable.
Good resale value. Small amount of depreciation from new
Long term investment, you can surf minimal forever and perfect for smaller days
Possible to take on planes
Cons
Harder to catch waves than a longboard or foamie
Size – Can be difficult to get out back in overhead high
Not as fast as smaller surfboards
Fun Board “Magic Carpet”: Length 6’10 – 7’2
Pros
Similar to minimals, but smaller, fun boards/ Magic Carpet are
Very stable easy to balance
Single fin and thruster options available
Easy to carry Lighter than large longboards and foamies
Slightly smaller than minimals, can be faster/ easier to paddle out back in bigger conditions
Good wave range from knee-high to overhead high surf
Small enough to be allowed on most airlines if you travel
Progressive enough that you could carry on surfing this type of board for a long time
Popular boards with the general surfing public, so hold resale value well.
Small enough to fit in most cars
Cons
Less volume than a longboard so requires more effort to catch waves
Can be a more challenging board to learn on for complete beginners than a longboard
Difficult to rider on steeper more hallow waves because of flatter rocker and wider nose
Not as fast or as maneuverable as shortboards/ have quite a big turning radius.
Large Fish Surfboard: Length 6’4 +
Pros
Lots of cool designs available at affordable prices
Faster and more maneuverable than the other boards covered above (longboards, foamies, minimals and magic carpets)
Relatively light and easy to carry
Easier to duck dive under waves when paddling out
Epoxy versions can be durable
Can surf small waist-high to overhead waves
If a beginner can surf a fish then it might be the only board they ever want
Twin fin, tri 3 fin thruster and quad versions are available
Small enough to be allowed on most airlines
Cons
More difficult to catch waves compared to a with larger boards
Lower wave count for beginners likely. Need to be able to catch unbroken green waves to get the most out of a fish not designed to catch white water with
Be proficient at duck diving to help get under waves when paddling out.
Non – epoxy versions get damaged quite easily particular on the nose and fishtail.
‘Big’ Shortboards /Guns /Step ups – 6’6 to 7’2+
Pros
Fast and easier to turn than longer boards#
Able to catch bigger waves without sacrificing short board performance
Lightweight and so easier to carry around
Will fit in cars easily
Easier to duck dive out in bigger surf
Epoxy versions can be durable
Small enough to be allowed on most airlines
Tri (3) fin thruster and quad versions are available
Cons
Harder to catch waves and paddle. Lower wave count for beginners
Beginners might struggle, shortboards are mainly designed for surfing bigger waves – chest to head high+
Ability to catch unbroken green waves, not designed to catch white water
Need to be able to duck dive to be able to get under waves when paddling out.
Ability to turn and generate speed on a shortboard is key.
resale value less compared to some of the other boards.
Performance Shortboards 6’6 – 5’10
Pros
Fast light and very responsive, easy to turn
Lightweight and so easier to carry around
Perfect for high performance surfing
Will fit in cars easily easy to travel with on airplanes
Easier to duck dive out in bigger surf
Epoxy versions can be durable
Variations of Tri (3) fin thruster, and quad (4) available
Cons
Harder to catch waves and paddle for beginners slower paddling
Designed for quality unbroken green waves chest to head high+ not for whitewater
Need to be able to duck dive to be able to get under waves when paddling out.
Need good balance to maintain stability
Good Ability to turn and generate speed, to keep you the power zone and the board planning
Can have weaker resale value compared to some of the other boards.
Looks the cool but hardest to surf
Grovelers Shortboards 6’2 – 5’4
Pros
Designed for high performance surfing in small waves (up to shoulder height)
Fast light and very responsive, easy to turn
Lightweight and so easier to carry around
Faster and Plane better than performance shortboards in smaller waves helping to keep speed through turns
Will fit in cars easily easy to travel with on airplanes
Wider than performance shortboards easier to paddle and balance.
Epoxy versions can be durable
Variations of Tri (3) fin thruster, and quad (4) available
Cons
Usually has higher volume than performance board so can’t turn as hard
Less responsive than a high performance board
Harder to catch waves for beginners more time spent paddling
Designed for quality unbroken waves or choppy condition chest to head high+ not for whitewater or overhead high bigger waves
Usually Harder to duck dive in bigger waves than performance board
Need to be able to duck dive to be able to get under waves when paddling out.
Need good balance to maintain stability
Ability to turn and generate speed to stay in the power zone to keep the board planning
Can have weaker resale value compared to some of the other boards.
Conclusion
So hopefully some of this information has helped you make a decision on what board is best for you. Surfing is a challenge for a lifetime so whether you have hundreds of board or just one. It all comes back to personal preference and the waves you going to be surfing. If you still unsure always good to seek local advice as they will be able to give you firsthand knowledge of the appropriate board to get for the conditions. Remember the more you practice the better you get the more choice will become available to you.
Learning to Surf is one of the most fun and life changing experiences you can have, and for lots of people journey that can last a life time. But before you start it’s really important to have a basic understanding of all the safety elements associated with surfing before getting in the water .Below we have out lined some simple tips to help keep you safe in the water and make your surfing experience as pleasurable and as safe as possible.
Things to know before you go
– Have a Lesson: If you are starting surfing have a lesson by a qualified School/instructor. Here you will be introduced to the sport in a safe environment.
– Be a Good Swimmer: Do not attempt surfing unless you can swim.
– Always let somebody on land know where you have gone and when you will return.
– Check the weather and tides before you paddle out. Learn to observe the ocean so you can identify rips, wind changes and other hazards.
– Check Equipment: Make sure your equipment; especially your leash is in good order. Remember it is much easier to spot a brightly coloured surfboard or wetsuit at sea in the event of you requiring rescuing. Consider other safety equipment.
– Protect your Head: When you “wipe-out” always protect your head with your arms.
– Help Others: Should you see a surfer in difficulty in the water DON’T DELAY phone 112 (EU) or 999 (UK) and ask for the Coast Guard. Even the most experienced surfer may at some time require assistance.
– Know First Aid: Every surfer should obtain first aid and water safety training you might just save a life of a friend or fellow surfer.
– Always be aware of other surfers: around you, never let go of your surfboard if caught inside unless you are 100% sure that there is no one behind you.
– Stay With Your Board: If you find yourself in difficulty it is important to stay calm and always stay with your board.
Fit to surf
“Making sure you are fit enough for surfing is a key part of staying safe”
– Knowing how to swim is the best defence against drowning. Swimming instruction at an early age is a crucial step to protecting the surfer from injury or death.
– You need Reasonable fitness and be able to swim. For your swimming ability you will need to be able to swim comfortably for at least 500m. (Remember the bigger the surf the harder it’s going to get and the stronger your swimming will need to be.
– Your fitness will also influence how long you stay in the water for (the fitter you are the longer you can surf)
Protect your self
– Don’t dive head first: (protect your head and neck) When falling off a surfboard or “wiping out” try to fall flat always extending a hand ahead of you. Try to land feet first if possible and always protect your head with your arms.
– Sun protection: SPFs of at least 15, which block 93 % of UVB rays. While Higher SPFs may be advisable for sun-sensitive individuals, skin cancer patients,
– Rash guards: helps protects against sun damage. They also help protect against rash caused by an allergic reaction to
– Wetsuit: Using a wetsuit especially the correct wetsuit when water temps are cold lower your Risk of hypothermia
Use the wetsuit guide to help keep you self safe and warm in the water.
Use A leash: Surfboards should always be used with a leash. If the wave is keeping you under and you are unable to discern Which way is to the surface you can follow the leash back to the surface. The surfboard will always stay on the Surface even when broken. If you are surfing closer to shore. The leash minimizes the distance the surfboard Gets away from you. It also saves a swim to your board after a wipe out as well as a great flotation device in an Emergency situation but should never be relied on as a life saving device.
Cramps: Avoid cramps by not eating at least one hour before surfing and of course don’t go surfing When drunk!
Water Safety
Rip Currents
Rip current also knows as Rips are strong water currents usually found moving out to sea.
Rips are formed by when waves break, water is pushed up the slope of the shore this water back toward the sea. It converges in a narrow, river-like current moving away from shore, the water will retreat finding the route with the least resistance, through the form of deeper or steep channels back seawards either directly or parallel to the beach. Rip currents may pull continuously, but they can suddenly appear or intensify after a set of waves,. Side currents, inshore holes, and other bottom conditions contribute to the formation of rip currents.
A rip can be recognised because as it flows back it will disturb the approaching waves and make them uneven and/or flatten the water’s surface.
What to do if you get caught in a rip current
The best way to avoid Rip Currents is by spotting areas that create Rips regularly and avoiding them, but if you do get caught in a rip.
– Relax, stay calm and don’t just swim for shore.
– Do Not Panic and swimming against the current
– Swim parallel to the beach. Often it only takes a few seconds before you feel yourself free of the pull.
– Then Swim to shore using the waves as extra push by body surfing in.
– If you cannot break free justtread water. Remember the rip will take you to the end of the break zone and no further.
– Swim parallel to the beach then in to shore
– People on the beach signal for help by waving 1 of your arms and calling for help. Once people see you just stay calm and tread water. Float on your back if you Get tired
– Unless you are an experienced surfer, rips need to be avoided as they can take you out to sea, so before entering the water check with locals or a lifeguard and ask where is safe to surf.
Tides:
If you are surfing in an area with a tidal range, try to get hold of a tide timetable. Not only are most breaks affected by the state of the tide but some areas can become highly dangerous and can cut off the unwary from land. If in doubt ask.
Equipment:
Make sure you have the right equipment, and your equipment is in full working order a faulty leash, board wetsuit will soon cause problems in the water, Check your equipment before you go.
Beach flags:
Warning flags are displayed at many beaches to assist you. You will need to avoid the beach sectioned off with red/yellow flags which is designated for swimmers and if the red flag is flying don’t enter the water at all as the condition s are considered dangerous.
Surf Safety & Surf Etiquette
What is Surfing Etiquette?
Surfing etiquette is a set of “rules” or a “code of conduct” that is based on common sense and consideration of others. All surfers should follow these general rules and guidelines to ensure that everyone can have a safe and enjoyable session in the water.
Learning, understanding, and following these basic surfing etiquette guidelines are a must for any surfer. If all water users show respect, the line-up will be a safer and friendlier place for all to enjoy! Remember, the best surfer at any beach is the one having the most FUN!!
– Respect the environment: Surfers are often considered ocean ambassadors and should promote the health of our beaches and ocean. We depend on a clean and healthy ocean, so always properly dispose of any trash you encounter on the beach. Maintain a positive attitude! Surfing should be fun for you and everyone else in the line-up. Respect others and share waves.
– Respect Others: Be aware of other water users and always show respect regardless of craft, keep a good attitude, be friendly and apologize if you make a mistake.
– Paddle out Safely: When paddling out, be aware that a surfer actively riding a wave has the right of way. As a paddler, it is your obligation to avoid a surfer on a wave. Paddle wide of the breaking waves to help avoid collisions or obstructions.
– Control your board: ONLY abandon your surf board if no one is around “Dive to stay alive”
– Never “drop in”: on another surfer. “Dropping in” is taking off on a wave in front of another surfer who has right of way. (See illustration).
– Do not snake: A snake is someone who aggressively positions him/herself in front of another surfer who otherwise would be in position to catch the wave. Remember to always respect other more experienced surfers and share waves.
– Communicate: If you are surfing a peak where you have an option to go right or left you must communicate with other surfers in the line up your preferred direction to avoid ‘drop ins’ and unridden waves. At some breaks you may be able to paddle out into a position that gives
– Follow the local laws: at the beach you visit. Different beaches maintain different sets of laws (i.e. surf zones, surfing near jetties and piers etc.), so check with a lifeguard for relevant laws before you enter the water.
– All ways wear a leash: Not only is it a law at many beaches, but wearing a leash is an important way to keep your board close to you and to keep it from becoming a hazard to other surfers.
– Help fellow surfers or swimmer if trouble in the water: The ocean is a dynamic environment and there are many safety hazards including rip currents. Should another surfer or swimmer encounter a problem, immediately offer assistance?
– Know CPR/First Aid: Everyone who surfs should be certified in CPR and Basic First Aid.
Don’t let this advice spoil any of your fun though! Surfing is fantastic and with a little common sense and safety awareness you’ll be able to have a great time in the surf.
Disclaimer: The information found within this site is for general information only and should not be treated as a substitute for local advice from local authorities, lifeguards, instructors and schools. SBSboards.com is not responsible or liable for any Action made by a user based on the information shown within this website. Always consult your own local lifeguard’s if in any way concerned about your safety or health.
