Luke, Author at Surf Hungry

10 Best Surfing Beaches in California

May 5, 2023December 29, 2019 by Luke

There is nothing like enjoying the gifts of nature. Of all the US states, California is one of the first places that comes into a surfer’s mind when they want to hit both big and gentle waves. This state is known for its surfing culture and impressive beaches, thus, making it an ideal location for both beginners and professional surfers. The best surfing beaches in California have brought the said sport into the mainstream. So, what are the best surfing beaches in California? Here are the top ten impressive beaches to surf across the state. Best Surfing Beaches in California in 2019 1. Huntington Beach (Orange County, California) Huntington Beach is known for its 8.5 miles property, which is suitable for surfing. It is located at the borderline of the Pacific Ocean on the west. Dean Torrence from the “Jan and Dean” pop group wrote a song called “Surf City”, which embodies the Huntington Beach fun. This beach is one of California’s safest, cleanest, and most extensive beaches for surfers. It also offers excellent bars and nightlife, which makes it an ideal place for surfers to unwind, too. From professional surfers to beginners, Huntington Beach has everything to offer. Plus, the crowd here is very friendly and approachable, too. The best time to surf this beach is before winter since the crowd is no longer surfing. Its long stretch can produce classic hollow waves, which is ideal for people who are taking surf lessons. Corky Carroll is one of the popular organizers that runs a summer surf lesson at Huntington Beach. 2. Maverick’s Beach (Half Moon Bay, California) Maverick’s Beach, located in Northern California (20 miles from the south of San Francisco), is known for its big waves. It is only suitable for professional surfers since its waves can be dangerous and fast for beginners. Truth be told, Maverick’s Beach is one of the beaches with the deadliest waves on Earth. This beach is an ideal place for professional surfers who are willing to risk their lives against the monster waves. The first professional surfers who approached this beach are Jim Thompson, Alex Matienzo, and Dick Notmeyer. In 1961, they decided to surf the inside spot (not the outer reef) during the winter. The best months to surf on Maverick’s Beach are September through April. But before surfing, surfers must be ready to commit their bodies and mind to the deadly waves. The water pressure on this beach is around 20 to 50 feet, which is strong enough to damage a person’s eardrums. Its strong currents can also push the surfers down from 20 to 50 feet below the surface. 3. Cowell Beach (Santa Cruz, California) Cowell Beach is one of the famous places for beginners who want to enhance their surfing skills. It is also ideal for longboards, especially on low tides. The gently rolling waves of the beach have a fun and easygoing atmosphere for all types of surfers. It can get crowded during the summer since there is a variety of surf schools available. 4. San Onofre State Beach (San Clemente, California) The San Onofre Beach became famous for its gentle waves. It’s been open to the public since the 1930s. The waves at this beach are at their best during the summer. It is suitable for beginners and professionals with short and longboards. The best mix of swells is usually medium-sized SW with a small-medium W swell. Getting to San Onofre Beach is pretty easy. Surfers can either drive north from San Diego or south from the five freeways. If a surfer is looking for a little solitude, this beach would be an ideal place. It has plenty of space which is perfect for camping, too. 5. Trestles Beach (San Clemente, California) Trestles Beach, also known as the jewel of Southern California, is named after a wooden trestle bridge (replaced with a concrete viaduct last 2012) that surfers walk through to reach the beach. Trestles Beach has the best waves in California. It is an ideal surf pool for people who wants to undergo surf training and experimentation sessions. It can be pretty crowded during the summer since it is a safe place to enhance a person’s surfing skills. Its rocky seafloor is not dangerous, especially for beginners. Each wave on Trestles breaks smoothly and will not put any surfer in a deadly situation. Nowadays, non-governmental organizations aim to maintain and manage the historical status of this beach. They are committed to protecting it from getting concrete and urbanized. 6. Laguna Beach (Orange County, California) Laguna Beach is known for its temperate weather, bohemian arts scene, and crystalline coves. These coves are famous for diving and snorkeling, while its idyllic beach is where the surfing glory occurs. Catching the waves in Laguna Beach can be easy for both beginners and professionals. Plus, the waves roll gently. Therefore, beginners can learn new skills quickly. If a professional surfer is looking for something bigger, he can visit Brooks Street. It is a fun and popular spot for experienced surfers due to its consistent left-breaking waves. If a person has never tried surfing before, Laguna Beach is the perfect place to learn. There is a variety of budget-friendly surf shops that offer a lesson that only costs $75 to $100 per hour. He can also rent boards and swimsuits that only cost around $125. 7. Swami’s Beach (San Diego, California) Swami’s Beach, also known as “Swami’s Reef”, is named after the Swami Paramahansa Yogananda, which is built last 1937. It became one of the major surfing destinations in California due to its excellent swells in the winter. Most of the time, this beach has a low to medium tide with W or NW swell directions. For that reason, Swami’s Beach is suitable for all types of surfers with long and shortboards. The Swami’s Surfing Association, built in the 1960s, is a non-governmental organization that aims to improve the beach community and protect its resources. Sponsors from the community … Read more

JK Surfboards Review: Epic Boards or Rip Off?

April 22, 2023December 26, 2019 by Luke

They have been around for years but have never taken the spotlight. Ignored too many times. An underdog in a world of balance, excitement, and speed. The years of designing some seriously superior surfboards have finally paid off. Now, they are starting to get noticed. Riders are surprised at how they never took a look before. Finally, these affordable sticks are taking the limelight. This corner is dedicated to JK Surfboards and their performance-style surfboards that you can kick back on and surf the weekend away with. JK Surfboards Reviewed Jason and Kiyo designed boards that come in an assortment of colors, materials, shapes, and sizes. They have longboards and funboards for the bigger guys and shortboards and retro fish for the smaller riders. JK Surfboards covers your stick needs regardless of your ability and your surfing spot. The Classic Noserider Longboard Surfboard The Soul Carver The Flow Rider Wafer Surfboard Groveler The Super Fun Board Surfboard Big Boy Fish Retro Fish Surfboard Groveler 1. The Classic Noserider Longboard Surfboard Specifications Length: 9 ft, 9 ft 2 in The stability that Classic Noserider Longboard Surfboard needs on most wave conditions is made possible by its outline which is full from nose to tail. Whether you want to come forward or do a hang ten, its roomy rounded nose with a contour spoon on the bottom makes it easy. With its minor taper through the tail, maneuvering this longboard is easy. Designed and shaped in southern California, it has a low to moderate rocker that lets you get into the waves early with less effort. The contours are designed with a single spoon to double concave with plenty of volumes from the nose to the tail and down to the rails. Riders at any level of expertise should be able to maneuver and balance with ease. JK guarantees that their board stands out from the rest when at the beach. Aesthetically, they are made with traditional resin swirls, and rail laps, with a matte finish that makes them look striking. Classic Noserider is constructed with US Poly foam blanks with superior (6 oz x2 top and 6 oz bottom) Polyresin. The board is sand finished with unique color combinations that will match your surfing personality. 100% hand-shaped, it comes with a single fin setup and a 9-inch center fin. #2. The Soul Carver Specifications Length: 6 ft 6 in, 7 ft, 7 ft 8 in, 8 ft 2 in, 8 ft 8 in, 9 ft Fin Setup: 8 ft 8 in and 9 in – 2 +1 set up and 2 side fins and center fin 6 ft 6 in, 7 ft, 7 ft 8 in, 8 ft 2 in – 4 +1 set up or 2 +1 setup with 2 side fins and a center fin Designed and hand shaped in Manhattan Beach, Southern California, Soul Carver is a high-performance mini longboard that lets you make cutbacks and bottom turns as if you never have on your other longboards. It can strongly hold on to bigger waves and effortlessly fly through mushy sections. The stability it presents will make you think twice about getting back on your old longboard. A must-have in your quiver, the Soul Carver longboard catches waves like a machine. Soul Carver Longboard is constructed with Polyurethane Foam blanks with superior (6 oz x2 top and 6 oz bottom) Polyresin. It is sand finished, 100% hand shaped, and comes complete with a 2 +1 set up and 2 side fins, and a center fin. Soul Caver gives you the feel of a longboard without all that bulk. It comes in different colors to choose from – Green nose dip, blue and green swirl, and yellow and orange swirl. 3. The Flow Rider Specifications Length: 6 ft, 6 ft 2 in, 6 ft 4 in, 6 ft 6 in, 6 ft 8 in, 6 ft 10 in Fin Setup: Tri Futures fin set An “everyday board”, Flow rider will impress you with its performance in all types of water conditions. Ride it in solid 8 to 10-foot faces in 2 to 3 mush, it will make you feel overwhelmed under the feet as you take turns and sections with just the right speed. JK created something special with Flow Rider. With the extra volume pushed to the chest area, paddling is easier, especially for boards this size. The single to double concave design can hold really well in barrel sections as it turns with no difficulty riding down the face of the wave. Flow Rider comes with Tri Futures Fin Set. Designed in Manhattan Beach, Southern California, it is 100% hand-shaped. This sand-finished surfboard is constructed with US EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam blanks with superior (4 oz x2 top and 4 oz bottom) eco-friendly epoxy resin. 4. Wafer Surfboard Groveler Specifications Length: 6 ft 1 in, 6 ft 3 in, 6 ft 5 in, 6 ft 7 in Fin Setup: 5 fins set up with Futures fin boxes and 3 fins JK Surfboards’ entry for groveler sticks, the Wafer, is perfect for riding and flying around normally un-rideable water conditions. Thanks to the team that made it feel looser, it gives the riders a longboard-like performance without carrying out an extended length. The Wafer is worth checking out. Despite its shorter and stouter shape, it gives enough balance and speed. The shape of this buoyant foam design allows it to conform with the 5-future fin setup. This combination allows beginners as well as experts to get out of the water smoothly. JK Surfboards’ The Wafer comes in different classic stripe designs that look perfect when you want to achieve that golden era of surfing nostalgia. You can choose from 2 constructions of this board: EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) Foam Blanks and Epoxy (which are normally in stock) or US Foam blanks with superior (6 oz x2 top and 4 oz bottom) poly resin, with carbon fiber and Kevlar vector net tail patch. 5. The Super Fun Board Surfboard … Read more

7 Easy Steps on How to Wax a Surfboard

April 9, 2023December 19, 2019 by Luke

If you are a beginner, you may not know how to wax a surfboard properly. We’re here to help. But first, let’s get things straight. What is the purpose of surf wax? Well, in short, surf wax will keep you on your board while you surf. When you apply surf wax on your board, you get proper traction and a stronger grip in the waters. Surf wax also serves as a protective layer that can prevent your board from falling off while you are overcoming the ocean waves. How to Wax a Surfboard: The Easy Way #1. Prepare all the needed materials. To wax your surfboard accurately, you will need a few supplies, including a wax comb, a basecoat wax, and a topcoat wax. If you are reapplying wax, you will need a wax cleaner and paper towels too. Make sure to buy the right wax for the water temperature in your location – soft wax for cold water, and hard wax for warm. However, if you are going to have a basecoat and topcoat, make sure to choose the hard wax for the base and something softer and stickier for the deck. It will give you an extra grip when you are going to apply a basecoat and topcoat. The basecoat will hold the topcoat to stay in place and stop it from being rubbed off easily. #2. Clean your surfboard. Before waxing your surfboard, clean it thoroughly first. If there’s any residue of old wax on your surfboard, you will still lose the new wax’s quality, and it will also flake off easily. You have to make sure that you are applying your new wax directly on your board’s body. To clean your board, you must use your wax comb to scrape the body. Make sure also to scrape the wax off the rails using the curved side of your wax comb. Additionally, you can also use a high-quality wax remover to dissolve any excess wax, so you can easily wipe it off. If your board looks shiny, you will know that all residue is now removed. You can now proceed with applying the new wax coat. #3. Apply your basecoat. The basecoat is the most adhesive wax for your board. Your topcoat may get worn and rub off with long-term use, but the basecoat will remain until the next time you wax your board again. If you have left an area without a basecoat, your topcoat will easily rub off even if you apply too much. The primary purpose of a basecoat wax is to create a bump pattern that keeps the topcoat intact. This wax helps the topcoat to last longer. In applying your basecoat, you must put enough pressure when rubbing it on to your board. If you rub it lightly, nothing will come off the wax, and it will take you a long time to finish. You will notice a strange sound while rubbing this wax on your surface, which is okay. It means that you are already forming bumps on the board, and the wax is bouncing over them. You have to start making a broader stroke until you see the bump patterns emerging. Here are the different techniques that you can use in applying your basecoat: Straight-line pattern: Applying the wax up and down the board, in parallel straight lines. Circle pattern: Applying the wax in small circles, moving it up and down until the bumps begin to form. Crosshatch pattern: Applying the wax on a diagonal pattern, and then perpendicular to the diagonal, forming a pattern of crosshatch. Kitchen sink: Applying the wax in any direction, using any of the above patterns, or make your own. You’ll know you’re doing it correctly when you see bumps starting to form. Continue until you have created enough thickness or the required amount of wax. #4. Apply your topcoat. The topcoat is sensitive to the water’s temperature, so make sure you have the right type of wax for your location. When the water temperature is warm, the wax becomes too soft. To ensure the optimal level of your wax’s softness, various chemicals are added to the wax. The ideal wax type for warm water is tropical wax, while the cold wax will remain tacky in cold water where most wax gets frozen up. The rule of thumb is that you can use cold wax in warm water, but you cannot use warm wax in cold water. To be safe, consider using a topcoat wax that has a different color from your basecoat. If your topcoat and basecoat have the same color, it will be difficult to tell where you’ve applied them. If this is the case, make sure to wax in one direction. Applying the topcoat is similar to the basecoat application procedure. The only difference is that you no longer have to apply too much pressure since it is softer. You can rub it lightly from back to front. #5. Comb the wax on your board. After applying your basecoat and topcoat, grab your wax comb and run it throughout your board. Comb your wax in diagonal crosshatch lines to rough up your wax. Additionally, it will also allow you to have a better grip while using your board. #6. Spray some cold water over your surfboard. Cold water does an excellent job of wax hardening. It will also help your wax to stick better on your surfboard. #7. Check your board after you surf. If you notice that some of your topcoats flaked off, you need to add a small amount of wax on specific areas. As time goes by, the topcoat gets flat and loses some traction, which is why you also need to comb it every time you surf. If you don’t want to apply a new coat yet, you just have to comb your board in a diagonal scrape to make a crosshatch pattern. Expert Tips Make sure to use the ideal wax type for your water temperature. … Read more

7 Easy Steps on How to Stand Up on a Surfboard

December 17, 2023December 19, 2019 by Luke

Surfing is one of the physical and mental activities that require endurance, balance, flexibility, power, speed, and mental toughness. If you want to overcome the bigger waves, you must be willing to commit to strict training and follow the instructions in this article. Even experienced surfers spend most of their time in training to boost their athletic capacity. Do you know how to stand up on a surfboard properly? Mastering this stance will help you jumpstart your surfing prowess in no time. So, it is essential to know how to properly do it, as well as to avoid suffering from injuries. Standing still in a surfboard can be tricky. You must learn the correct techniques to achieve the right position of your body while overcoming the waves. Fortunately, this article is here to discuss the seven easy steps on how to stand up on a surfboard. How to Stand Up on a Surfboard #1. Practice your proper position on land. Before hitting the ocean, take time to practice your standing technique on land. Lay your toes touching the tail on the board. Afterward, put your hands near your ribcage, lift your stomach, and place it like you are doing a push-up. Place your thumbs in line with your lower ribs. Always remember to look straight up. Refrain from looking down or from moving your head. You should also avoid using your upper body strength to launch and take off. #2. Slide your knees. Without changing your hands’ position, slide both of your knees up. This step means that you are now kneeling at the center of your board. #3. Shift your palms up and rest them on your fingertips Shift your palms to rest on your fingers. At first, you will always look down at your board to check whether your hands are in the right position. But remember that this is only fine when you are practicing on the sand. When you are already in the water, you must be confident, keep your chin high, do this step, and look straight ahead. #4. Bring your dominant foot forward. Now that you’re resting your fingertips while in the kneeling position, it is time to bring your foot forward. If you have a surf coach, he will teach you which foot to bring forward. If you don’t, you can choose whatever is comfortable. After putting it forward, place it flat at the center of your board. Make sure that your foot has a slight angle for balance. Additionally, make sure that both of your feet are in the right position. If they’re too far from each other, your board won’t be able to speed up. Otherwise, your board will lean out and collapse. #5. Twist your hips, then stand! After putting a foot forward, it’s time to twist your hips to the side and crouch your body. Keep your knees bent and face forwards since it will help you keep your balance. #6. Ride the waves. Keep your knees bent at all times. With this position, you will help your body to maintain its balance and lower your center of gravity. Keep your arms up and look straight forward. When your arms are always in the “surfer’s position”, you can keep your momentum going. Push your hips forward so you can transfer some pressure on your front leg. Additionally, you should also dip your back leg slightly to give you a more comfortable position. When you want to paddle, make sure to arch your back slightly so you can easily engage with your shoulders. Plus, your thumbs should be the first ones to enter the water. Afterward, close your fingers and draw the water under your board slightly. When the wave is getting close, paddle as fast and as strong as you can, but if you feel the wave pushing your surfboard, stand up. #7. Catch the broken waves. You wouldn’t want to be rolled over by big waves. However, you should not also insert yourself into them right away. Instead, practice catching the waves on shallower water near the shore. While you are doing this, never turn your back on the waves since they can seriously injure you. Face the waves while waiting for the perfect one. Practice this technique in shallow waters. If you can do it at least half of the time, then you will be ready to pull through the bigger waves. How to Stand Up Like a Professional Surfer? #1. Practice angling your board. If you want to experience the longest ride possible, you must ride it parallel to the shore. To do this, you must continue to bend your knees. Afterward, lightly put pressure in your desired direction. This way, you can elicit a kneel impact that breaks into the water and direct your board. #2. Take time to study the waves. For professional surfers, observing the waves and their behaviors allows them to become better. It will take some time, but eventually, you’ll get there. With committed learning, you will be able to tell the best wave to ride on. Additional Expert Tips Try to stand up on your surfboard as soon as the wave hits you. When you wait too long, you’ll eventually get to your knees before you decide to stand up because it’s too woolly to do so. Aim to get up right away. When you start to stand up and surf, keeping your head looking straight forward is crucial. When you notice that you are slipping off your surfboard, you will probably look down. Trust yourself and keep looking up. If you have experience in boarding like skateboarding, snowboarding, wakeboarding, and so on, you may quickly learn how to stand comfortably. But if you haven’t, you must place your most muscular leg at the back. This way, you will find it easier to maintain your balance while standing up on your surfboard. Common Mistakes While Surfing #1. Positioning your push-up hands in front of you. Some surfers unconsciously put … Read more

How to Repair a Surfboard in 8 Easy Steps

April 11, 2023December 19, 2019 by Luke

Surfboards break, and it can happen at any time. Even the most careful surfers out there would be one day looking at his favorite board with a heavy heart because of the damage, and that is why you need to learn how to repair a surfboard. The good thing that nowadays is that you can repair your surfboard with ease. There is no need to go to the nearest ding shop to get your board up and working again. Fixing your surfboard has its benefits. Aside from the fact that you can save money, some remote places do not have a ding repair shop you can turn to. In this article, we will help you to repair your surfboard in eight easy steps. Here are the tips to keep in mind when it comes to repairing your favorite board. How to Properly Repair a Surfboard Materials Needed: Sandpaper Masking tape Sanding resin Acetone Razorblade Safety glasses Paintbrush Wax comb Q-cell filler #1. Cut and clean the damaged part. The first step in repairing your surfboard is to cut and clean the damaged part using a razor blade. Carefully cut the damaged part of the board. This way, you will have a beautiful, clean board surface. It will help you to rebuild the outer coating and the fiberglass effectively. Cleaning the damaged part is also essential. You might want to get rid of any remaining wax from the area that you’ve cut earlier. Using a wax comb, carefully clean the damaged part of the board. You can also use some acetone to break down other substances that are still on the surfboard after you have cleaned it up. #2. Start sanding down your board. The next step is to sand down your surfboard. You might want a smoother surface to work with when repairing your board. Make sure that your sandpaper is only around 30 to 60 grit. If the grit level of the sandpaper is too high, you will not be able to bond your board after cleaning and sanding it. #3. Start filling the gaps. When you’re confident that you have adequately cleaned the board, proceed to fill the gaps. You might want to protect the surrounding areas using masking tape. It also helps to minimize the area that you need to sand later on. If the hole is too big, filling the gaps is the best thing to do. In a mixing cup, combine sanding resin and Q-cell. Start mixing it. Add at least ten catalyst drops to your paste. And then mix again. Apply this combination on the dinged areas. It serves as an adequate foam replacement. Keep in mind that when you’re filling the gaps, you have to pour the mixture very slowly to prevent the air bubbles from forming. You might want to use a stick to fill in every crevice, and not miss even the tiniest holes. Stop pouring the mixture when it sits above the damaged area. Then, wait for the mixture to harden. #4. Sand it down. Once the mixture that you used in filling the gaps hardened, sand it down. This way, it falls flat with the board. You can also sand down to cater to the resin coat. When sanding your board, it is best to use a sanding block. It helps to distribute the pressure evenly. The sanding block also helps to prevent coves on the board. #5. Start glassing the repaired area. You will need two circular fiberglass pieces; just make sure that the other one is a bit bigger compared to the other, and both parts are more significant compared to the repaired area. Combine the ten catalyst drops and the sanding resin. Stir it well until it’s ready to use. After that, using a paintbrush, start applying the mixture on the board. Make sure that the smaller circular piece of fiberglass is placed on the repaired area before you add more resin mixture. Wait patiently for the fiberglass to absorb the resin, and then you can repeat the process using the bigger fiberglass. Be careful and make sure that the resin is spread evenly. It is crucial that you can press the fiberglass pieces without difficulty. #6. Sand the area again. After placing two pieces of fiberglass, you may now sand the area again. Just make sure that the resin is already hardened before you sand for the third time. Look for bulges and lumps to know what area should be smoothened down with your sandpaper. Also, when you’re sanding your board, it’s a must that you don’t sand aggressively; otherwise, you will burn through the fiberglass you’ve just installed. #7. Add finishing coat. After sanding and smoothing it down, make sure to add a thin layer of resin and final drops of catalyst to the mixture. Wet sanding should be the last step in repairing your surfboard. Here you can use high grit sandpaper, say, about 600 grit level. This way, you can match the finishing of your board. If you want your board to be glossy, use a polisher and a diamond cut compound. Your board will look good as new with the help of the abovementioned materials. #8. Wait for 48 hours before using the board. When you’ve done all the steps correctly, wait for at least 48 hours before you can use the board again. Be mindful of the repaired area’s surface and make sure that it is just as smooth and as flat as the rest of the board. Let it rest for two days so that the board can adequately absorb the mixture. After that, your surfboard is ready to be used again. By repairing your surfboard, you can save both time and money. Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQs): Related Resources Electric Surfboards Hybrid Surfboards Groveler Surfboards Wakesurf Boards Funboards Bodyboards LukeLuke is an avid athlete and the driving force behind Surfhungry, a vibrant online platform dedicated to sharing the joy and passion of surfing and water sports with enthusiasts around … Read more

3 Easy Steps on Removing Wax from a Surfboard

April 18, 2023December 19, 2019 by Luke

Let’s start with the essential question: how to remove wax from a surfboard? There are several types of surf wax in the market. They can be classified as either Warm, Tropical, Cool, and Cold. The water temperature of your surf spot will determine which type you should choose. Removing wax from your surfboard is easier than other people think. However, it can be really messy, so you must get some old newspaper or plastic first before proceeding. Every surfer wants his surf wax to be as gooey as possible. However, removing it might be a little tricky, especially when it’s your first time removing wax from your surfboard. With this article, you can surely solve your dilemma and make your board look new again. How to Remove Wax from a Surfboard Removing an old wax tends to be time-consuming and a filthy task, but in this article, there are some useful ways to help you get rid of that wax coat. #1. Prepare all the needed materials. To easily remove the wax from your surfboard, you must know and have all the required materials. In the same way, one of the best ways to soften the wax is to leave your surfboard under the hot sun for ten to fifteen minutes. If the current weather cannot soften your board’s wax, you have to use the blow-dryer. You must blow-dry a particular area first before proceeding to other areas. Pouring hot water can also help you soften the wax. However, do not keep your surfboard out for too long. Too much heat can damage your board from inside out. After you soften the wax, take your wax comb, old credit card, or any similar object to scrape the wax carefully from your board. If you notice that it does not come off quickly, blow dry it again. If the wax is soft enough, you can continue scraping and use the curved edge of your wax comb to remove the wax on your board’s rails. #2. Continue rubbing until every bit of wax is removed. You can also buy some products in the market that will help you remove the remaining wax. You will rub it on your board after scraping. However, some surfers said that melted coconut oil could achieve the same job. Another tool that you can use is the Pickle Wax Remover. It is a chemical-free and saw-dust type of powder that works effectively to rub any waxy residue off your board. This is one of the ideal products to consider when removing old wax. Another product that you can also use is “magic dust”. It is a foam dust that is found in vacuum systems and shaping days. If you live near a surfboard manufacturer, this is a piece of excellent news for you. All you have to do is to bring a large zip lock on their factory and ask for some. If you live away from any surfboard manufacturer, a good alternative is a sawdust. After scraping, you can use this dust and rub it around your board. You can keep on sprinkling and wiping the wax until your board looks polished. #3. Do the final clean-up. You can use acetone or plain flour to achieve a wax-free shiny look. Just dab your paper towel in acetone and rub it on your board. If you are using flour, just spread it all over your board and disperse it properly. Why Do You Need to Remove and Replace Your Surf Wax Regularly? #1. It improves your grip. A fresh wax coat is way better than that two-year-old wax job. You won’t regret it – that’s for sure. #2. You can identify the necessary fixes. Cleaning your board will help you notice some dents and damage to it. You can also check if there is a crack that needs repair. If you left this crack unchecked, it could increase the damage on your board. Therefore, leaving your old wax on your board is not a good idea. Expert Tips Another thing that you need to consider before removing the wax is to place your surfboard in the right place. It is better to have your removal session outside like in the yard, so you’ll have adequate space to work on your board. Place some newspaper or cardboard and start the process. When you do this outside, the disposal will be a whole lot easier. Additionally, wax bits are hard to remove from furniture and rugs. Therefore, it is not recommended to do this entire process indoors. If you intend to travel with your surfboard, make sure to clean off your board’s wax. If you have a cold water wax, there’s a tendency of wax melting in your bag or the water. Do not use any sharp objects in scraping your board. Avoid using scissors, a knife, or even a kitchen scraper. Do not use boiling water on your board since it might ruin it. Some hot or warm water is enough. If you are going to use any solvent to clean the wax, make sure that it’s safe to use on your board. Make time to clean your surfboard and apply a new coat regularly. It will help you maintain your grip while surfing and avoid slipping. Frequently Asked Questions Q: Is it okay to apply wax without removing the old one? A: No. Most surfers think that it’s okay to add a new coat of wax instead of removing the old one first. When you layer multiple waxes on your board, there is a possibility that your wax will not do its job very well. When you do not remove your old wax before applying the new one, the new wax will flake off while you are using your board in the water. Another thing is that the wax will smear around. You will have a hard time keeping your feet in the right position on the board. Q: What will happen if I don’t apply … Read more

How to Improve Your Surf Balance: The Ultimate Guide

December 10, 2023December 19, 2019 by Luke

When you’re out of the water or want a productive Saturday afternoon, consider learning to improve balance in surfing. To be a good surfer means having a good balance. It also reduces the risks of water injury when you’re surfing. There are lots of ways to improve surf balance. Whether you’re at home, at the gym, or at the beach, there are ways to help you get ready to catch the perfect wave on your next surfing session. In this article, we will talk about tips and tricks that are proven to be effective in improving surf balance and overall, your surfing skills. How to Improve Your Surf Balance: The Truth 1. Try skateboarding. If the idea of hitting the gym and doing balance workouts doesn’t appeal to you, you should try skateboarding instead. Jumping on a skateboard and on a surfboard is similar in many ways. It requires you to maintain your stability when you’re zooming in on the momentum of both air and water. Skateboarding is also a great way to practice surfing when you are not in the water. There are no dangers of falling and drowning here, making it ideal for beginners in surfing as well. 2. Practice yoga. Yoga is not only for mindfulness and relieving yourself of stress and anxiety. It can help to improve balance in surfing. It is one of the best surfer exercises that you can try. Yoga helps to improve your flexibility, and balance, and strengthen your core, aside from helping you relax after being out on the water for a long time. Make sure that you focus on yoga workout routines that are anchored to improving your balance. As a result, you’ll be able to stand on the board without losing your balance. If you can’t afford a yoga instructor, you can always buy a yoga mat and get started in the comfort of your home. #3. Exercise at home. You don’t need to hit the gym just to work out. If you want to improve your balance in surfing, spend every vacant time of yours exercising and trying to be healthy at home. For instance, you can try a single-leg balance. This exercise is famous among surfers because it helps them to stand on the board and control bigger waves easily. When doing a single-leg balance, all you need to do is get up, keep your dominant feet on the floor, and raise your non-dominant leg. Make sure that you maintain your hips square and your knees bent slightly. Now that you’re standing on one leg, slowly place your hand on your knee and keep that position for at least 30 seconds. After that, repeat the same process using your other leg. Aside from the single-leg balance exercise, there are other workout routines such as diamond press-ups, wide press-ups, sit-ups, and even tossing a tennis ball that can help you in improving your surfing balance. You can do all of these in the comfort of your home. #4. Invest in the right surfing gear. If you want to get serious about surfing, aside from investing in the best surfboard out there, you should also invest in the right surfing gear and gadgets that can help to improve your balance in surfing. Some exercise routines may also require proper equipment for effective execution. For instance, one of the most vital surfing gear that you should invest in is a balance board. This rolling cylinder and board combo will allow you to improve your stability and strengthen your legs. It is also a great way to practice placing your feet firmly on the board. Balance cushions are also a significant investment. This cushion allows you to stand atop and improve your stability, the perfect activity to do during a rainy afternoon when you can’t go out and surf. Aside from these, there are also fitness balls that help to improve your core. Coordination between your hands and your eyes is vital when surfing. Fitness balls can help you get the most out of your exercises at home. 5. Maintain your position. This applies when you are in the water. After you’ve captured the green wave, make sure to maintain the right position. It prevents you from falling in the water or getting thrown off your board. Bend your knees just a little but keep your spine straight and stiff. Make sure that you relax your arms when it’s hanging down. Try not to stiffen as it can add weight to your board, making you lose your balance when you are surfing. Aside from that, you also need to master compressing your lower body while keeping your upper body in a straight position. Bend your knees and make sure that it is pointing toward each other. Bending your upper body down will only shift your weight and may cause you to lose your balance. 6. Choose your board wisely. Choosing the right board plays a significant role in improving your balance in surfing. There are lots of surfboards that you can choose from. Some are ideal for beginners, and some boards are for experts. For starters, it is best to invest in a high-volume surfboard. Aside from its excellent weight support, this type of board is easy to ride, allowing you to maintain your balance when you’re in the water. You should also consider investing in surfboard traction pads and surf wax. The texture of your surfboard should prevent you from slipping. It also helps to keep your balance while on the board and gain better control when you are surfing. Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQ) Related Resources Common Surfing Mistakes Surfing Wetsuits Surf Gloves Surfing Tips Epoxy vs. Fiberglass Surfboards Bodyboards LukeLuke is an avid athlete and the driving force behind Surfhungry, a vibrant online platform dedicated to sharing the joy and passion of surfing and water sports with enthusiasts around the world. With a deep-rooted love for the ocean and a lifelong commitment to riding waves, Luke’s journey as a surfer … Read more

How to Catch an Unbroken Wave Like a Surfing Pro

April 4, 2023December 19, 2019 by Luke

SURFER CATCHING AN UNBROKEN WAVE, SHOWING HOW TO CATCH AN UNBROKEN WAVE

Surfing is one of the best watersports to ease your stress and at the same time allow you to maintain a healthy body. To enjoy this sport, aside from learning how to swim and paddle, catching an unbroken wave is one of the fundamental skills that you need to master in surfing. Today, we are going to give you insights on how to catch a green wave like a surf pro. And by catching a green wave, we mean riding it throughout without having to nose-dive or getting passed over. The followings are the tips and tricks that you need to keep in mind when it comes to catching a green wave. How to Catch a Wave: The Ultimate Guide #1. Study the different phases of the wave. Before anything else, you might want to study the different phases of the wave. This is important to master before the positioning. Phase 1 – During this phase, the wave is just a ‘bump.’ When the tide is still at its first stage, try not to catch it. This ‘bump’ should only serve as an indication that a wave is about to hit. Phase 2 – Now that you know that a wave is coming, this is the time when you will see what they call the “green wave.” A green wave is an unbroken wave that has steepness and power, which allows surfers to paddle on it. A wave in its first phase is not powerful enough to catch, and in the next stage, it will be too vertical and dangerous to catch. Phase 3 – At this point, the wave will start to break. The lip of the wave will now come crashing down into the water. Surfers often do not catch this type of wave because it’s too powerful and can cause potential danger, especially if you are still a beginner surfer. Phase 4 – This is the final phase of the wave, where it has been completely broken down and joins the white-water wave. #2. Position yourself. Observe how both beginners and professionals in surfing wait in line for the best set of waves to hit. At the beach, you’ll find them sitting on their boards and patiently waiting as they position themselves. Do the same and find an excellent place to wait for the perfect waves to come. When positioning yourself, keep your nose pointed towards the upcoming waves. But when you see the wave coming, make sure that your board is turned away to help you get ready. #3. Start paddling. Now that you know how to determine a green wave get into the water and start paddling. To avoid combating the breaking waves, try going to the left or right side of the waves. It will also be easier for you to catch it. But be mindful of your timing. When a wave breaks, it comes in a set of fours. Observe the waves from the shore, and you will notice that in-between sets, there is a slight pause. That pause will serve as your cue, and it is usually the best time to hit. #4. Get on your feet. Now that you’ve managed to catch the green wave, it’s time to pop up! There are two methods by which you can pop up effectively. First is by pushing yourself up and then hopping to your feet in one swift motion. The second method is by pulling yourself up on your knees and then slowly rising to your feet. Each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. It is crucial that you practice the pop-up in the sand before you plunge into the water. The popping up is the trickiest and hardest part that you need to master in surfing. It’s all about timing and maintaining your balance on the board. Otherwise, you will fall face-first into the water. But don’t be discouraged if you can’t pop up right away. Practising in both sand and water can do wonders for your popping-up skills. #5. Ride the wave. If you’ve managed to catch the best wave and pop up at the right time, you can now ride the wave. The zoom of the momentum when riding the wave is what surfers are living for. Here you would feel in control, so be confident and dominant in riding the waves. After many trials and errors, this is the moment that you’ve been waiting for. So, make sure to ride the wave with ease, have fun, and you can even strike a pose if you want. Also, don’t get stuck up when you’re on top of the waves, as it can send you nose-diving into the water when you fall. #6. Change positions when you get thrown off. We get it the frustration is running through your veins when you get thrown off your board by a powerful wave. If you notice that you keep on falling down, it’s high time that you change positions. For instance, if you’re leaning too much forward, you can try to arch back on your board to gain full control. And when you start to ride the waves, arch your back so you can maximize the weight in your thighs and legs. Make sure that you don’t catch a wave in its final stage, as it will automatically pitch you, forwards. When this happens, you will lose control and fall into the water. Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQ’s) Q: What is the best thing to do when I can’t catch a passing wave? A: When you can’t catch a wave after several passes, try to shift your weight forward. When you’re too far back on your surfboard, catching a wave can be a little tricky. The nose of your board should only be a couple of inches out from the water. It is also advisable that you start paddling early so that you’ll have higher chances of catching the green waves and gaining more speed when it reaches your position. Even … Read more

Top 7 Best Surfing Backpacks | Reviews (Dakine, Rip Curl)

April 21, 2023December 16, 2019 by Luke

The best way to enjoy your surfing trip is not having to worry about your dry things getting wet because they have to be dumped into the same bag as your wet things. I was the type who’d rather not bring a lot of stuff to make sure nothing gets wet except my wetsuit. Even so, my backpack gets wet and it takes a while to dry up. Technology brought surfers the ability to bring anything they want to bring without stressing so much on water and moist. The best surfing backpacks address every surfer’s need to organize surfing accessories such as wax, sunscreen, laptop, camera, beer, and whatnot. Best Surfing Backpacks – Your Wet and Dry Sack We’ve got nothing against normal backpacks. They could surely bring your wetsuit wherever and other things down to the seaside. It’s just that surf backpacks have many advantages over them. Here are some of the best surfing backpacks in the market that will surely keep your phones, wallets, and your dry jacket protected from your wetsuit. Cyclone II Dry Pack Surfing Backpack by Dakine Cyclone Roll Top Surf Backpack by Dakine F-Light Surf Pack by Rip Curl Panga 50 by Yeti BackSåk by SKOG Å KUST Patrol Backpack by Dakine Borealis Backpack by The North Face #1. Cyclone II Dry Pack (36L) Backpack by Dakine – Best Overall Dakine started their company believing the land and the sea are more than just our playground. It is a sanctuary where we can discover escape, freedom, and connection. Therefore they desired to engage in their business with enough respect for the environment as well as Maui’s waves and locals. One of their sustainable product is the Cyclone II Dry Pack (36L) Backpack. Cyclone II Dry Pack (36L) Backpack is not just for a trip to the beach. Not a surfer, no problem. It is not all year round that you go surfing or kayaking but, there will be certain trips where you can not rule out getting wet. So, a dry pack like Cyclone II Dry Pack (36L) Backpack makes perfect sense. This dry pack is made from 305D Cordura HP coated ripstop fabric with a pack that has waterproof welded construction. The engineers added a roll top to protect the roomy main compartment from water. Other welded parts of Cyclone II Dry Pack (36L) Backpack are the front stash pockets. The bag’s contents are protected by water-resistant YKK PU (Polyurethane)—coated zippers. Holding 36 liters makes this bag one of the most reliable and versatile. You will be able to keep practically everything, except of course your surfboard. This rough, rugged, fully-waterproof backpack has a two-way purge valve that is exceptionally useful in compacting the bag down. Overall, the Cyclone II Dry Pack (36L) Backpack boasts the classic looks and lines of a regular backpack. #2. Cyclone Roll Top (32L) Backpack by Dakine – Minimalistic Surfing Backpack Dakine proves its worthiness in surfing backpacks with their 2nd entry on the best surfing backpacks list. As if Cyclone II Dry Pack (36L) Backpack is not enough yet, they’ve thrown in its little brother, Cyclone Roll Top (32L) Backpack. Built with the same materials and precision in construction, it comes with a design that is beyond remarkable. Welded 305D Cordura® HP Coated Ripstop makes it incredibly durable with a secret pocket. It does not just hold up against wetness but pickpockets, too. Cyclone Roll Top (32L) Backpack’s design of a big roll-top pocket allows easier access to fit all of your belongings inside the bag at once. Even the wettest and heaviest wetsuit won’t be a setback. The difference it has from Cyclone II Dry Pack (36L) is the limited pocket that can only hold a bar of wax, or your phone and keys. It has just one big pocket instead of a bunch of small ones. Its smaller dimensions make it easier to fit if a petite person uses it. Cyclone Roll Top (32L) Backpack is just as cozy and convenient as Cyclone II Dry Pack with their standard shoulder fastenings and back panel. Both are topped with waterproof YKK zipper. The smaller version of Cyclone II, it also has a cheaper price tag since there are lesser pockets, carry hooks, and purge valve. If it is a quick hike or a day trip you are going out for, this minimalistic themed surfing backpack will have you covered. #3. F-Light Surf Pack by Rip Curl – Best Lightweight Surf Backpack Anyone who surfs must know Rip Curl. They are one of the world’s most recognized and respected brand and has been at the forefront of surf and snow scenes since it came in the business. What makes Rip Curl unique the crew that was behind the driving force in the creation of the company – The Search. Aside from The Search that defines who they are, their products and the events that they run, the riders that they support, as well as the people they reach globally make them known worldwide. Since 1969, they remain a company built by surfers for surfers. F-Light Surf Pack by Rip Curl has tons of features you will be glad about. Let’s start with the easy access pocket on its front. This pocket includes a soft brush lining that is ideal for your gadgets. Then, there is the full organizational panel when you unzip the front section. The easy organizing panel has clips for your keys and slots for the smaller items you don’t want to lose. Just a little above the organizing panel is a dedicated compartment for your eyewear – sunglasses or winter goggles. It is made up of extremely soft materials to make sure your goggles’ lenses won’t get scratched up. Its wide shoulder straps are breathable and quick-drying. The back panels have perforations that create good airflow against the padding. Its adjustable sternum strap allows you to adjust the backpack for a comfortable snug fit. F-Light Surf Pack boasts a lot of useful pockets … Read more

Top 9 Best Surfing Tips for Beginners

December 17, 2023December 9, 2019 by Luke

If you’re looking for real fun in the water, surfing can satisfy your thirst for extreme adventures. Aside from the health benefits that it can offer, you also get closer to nature when you’re surfing. However, just like other extreme sports, no one starts an excellent surfer. Before you can ride the big wave, you’ll go through the difficulties of being a beginner in surfing. We’ve done our research and have come up with a list of comprehensive surfing tips for beginners that they should keep in mind. Before Surfing 1. Find a good surfing instructor Before anything else, you must find an excellent surfing instructor. This is to avoid injuries when you are surfing. Surfing instructors will not only teach you the basics of surfing, but they will also inspire you to become the best surfer and fall in love with the ocean. An excellent surfing instructor will teach you how to read the water, the tides, and weather forecasts, as well as give you tips on how to perfect your positioning when you are on the board. Aside from that, you get the best surfing techniques from professional surfing instructors. Most of them have joined competitions before, and with all the years they spent having fun in the water, they have most likely developed a surfing technique that will make your experience more pleasant and enjoyable. 2. Opt for a bigger board One of the best surfing tips for beginners that you should keep in mind is selecting the right board. When you are a beginner at surfing, it is vital to use a bigger one. A bigger board is easier to maneuver, and it also gives you a larger surface to make you feel comfortable when riding the waves. Make sure to check the materials of the board, too. If you invest in a high-quality board, rest assured that it will last for years. An ideal surfboard should be at least one palm higher than your height. It should weigh around 2.2 pounds which will allow you to transport it from one place to another easily. Aside from that, there are factors that you need to consider when choosing the right surfboard, including the type of waves on the beach where you’re planning to practice. You should also take your fitness level and surfing skill level into consideration. 3. Don’t forget the surf leash A surf leash is for your safety, so make sure that you don’t forget to put on one. There are times that it can get in the way of your surfing, but you will get used to having a surf leash. Even professional surfers also use a leash, especially in a competition. A surf leash can save your life in case anything happens. A surf leash functions by preventing your runway surfboard from hitting other surfers when you slip into the water. In case you fall, you don’t have to swim far to catch your surfboard because the leash will keep your board close to you. 4. Do some exercises before hitting the waves Before you plunge into the water, you must do some exercises. If you stretch your muscles before surfing, it will decrease the risks of suffering from muscle cramps when you’re in the water. It also improves your endurance, allowing you to enjoy more time in the water. Your surf instructor may introduce some basic exercise routines before surfing to make sure that your body is conditioned. The following are the most common exercises to do to improve your surfing skills: front squats, ring chin-ups, Turkish get-ups, pushups, dynamic lunges, and mobility drills. These are home-based exercises that will condition your body before you plunge into the water. It improves your strength, flexibility, endurance, and balance which can help you improve your surfing skills. During Surfing 5. Start small and slow down your pace When you start surfing, you may feel giddy and excited to hit the biggest of the waves. We understand your thrill, but it is still important to slow down to lessen the risks of injury. When you slow down your pace, you will start to get used to riding the waves. Start tackling smaller waves before you brave yourself to hit the big ones. Unless your surfing instructor gives you the signal that you can handle big waves, stay away, and get comfortable with small waves first. 6. Perfect your pop-up A pop-up is a quick, fluid push-up. Practicing your pop-up will allow you to move swiftly on the board. It is best to practice the pop-up position when you’re still on the sand, so you’ll be able to transition with no difficulty when you’re in the water. Start by putting your hands in a chicken position and then quickly transition to a cobra push-up position. After Surfing 7. Dry your ears and stretch To avoid surfer’s ears, it is essential that you dry your ears properly. This is crucial, especially if you spent a couple of hours out in the sea and playing with the waves. Make sure that you drain your ears and remove any traces of salty water. Make it a habit to dry your ears properly right after you step into the shore from the sea. After drying, you should proceed to stretch. Your shoulders and spine might be tensed after that surfing session you just had. Release the tension in your body by stretching and also avoid the adverse effects of lactic acid production. Stretching also helps to improve your flexibility, which is a vital surfing skill that you should develop in the long run. 8. Eat a protein-filled diet Your muscles are sore and mush after spending hours in the water. Therefore, you must eat a protein-filled lunch after surfing. Its main goal is to restore your muscles and bring back the right nutrients that your body needs. Throw in some carbohydrates to bring back your energy and protein to help you aid in muscle recovery. However, it doesn’t … Read more

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