Luke Morris

Longboard Surfing Tricks: How to Step Up

May 28, 2023by Luke Morris

Longboard surfing connects you with the ocean and lets you express yourself on the waves. Still, you’ll have to learn exciting skills and tricks to stand out from the crowd besides just riding out the wave. And this guide shows you how to rock the longboard like a pro, from the basics to the advanced moves. So, how can you step up your longboarding game? You must learn different maneuvers to elevate your longboard surfing skills, such as turns, cutbacks, re-entries, and nose rides. You also need to try some tricks that involve spinning, rolling, flying, and shuvits while practicing regularly, watching other surfers, and keeping a positive mindset. You’re about to enter the extraordinary world of longboard surfing, where you’ll learn how to nail the basic moves and the coolest tricks while remembering that it’s not all about technique. We’ll also give you some killer tips that will change your game and bring out the best surfer in you. So, don’t miss this chance to boost your skills and have a blast on the longboard. Let’s get started! Mastering The Basic Longboard Surfing Maneuvers So, getting to the basics – Longboarding surfing is a relaxed and laid-back style that requires a longboard, usually about three feet longer than your height. Different types of longboards, such as the nose rider, the performance, and the hybrid, suit various preferences and conditions. And starting longboarding surfing requires practicing your balance on a static board on grass or a rug and looking for waves breaking far from the shore. It would be best to include basic equipment, such as a swimsuit or wetsuit (optional), a fin, surf wax, a leg leash, and sunscreen. But before you can attempt any fancy tricks on your longboard, you need to master some essential skills and maneuvers that will help you control your board and ride the waves easily and in style. These are the basic longboard surfing maneuvers that every surfer should know: Bottom Turn Known as your first turn after catching a wave, it sets you up for the rest of the ride by positioning you on the face of the wave. Performing a bottom turn requires you to shift your weight to your rear foot and lean in your desired direction. Then, as you reach the lower end of the wave, you need to shift your weight to your front foot and look up at where you want to go next. Vision is essential for this role, allowing your body to respond and plan ahead on what you see rather than what you feel. And to top that up, Cross-stepping (mentioned below) can be extremely challenging without a proper bottom turn and board setup. Top Turn This is the turn you make at the top of the wave, allowing you to change direction and generate speed by using the power of the wave. Top turning is best approaching the lip of the wave with speed and angle your board towards it. Then, as you reach the lip, you must push hard on your back foot and twist your upper body in the opposite direction. It will make your board carve around and spray some water, and you’ll need to look down at where you want to go next and follow through with your board. Cutback A Cutback, or Front/Backside cutback, is the turn you make when you want to get back to the pocket, or power source, of the wave, allowing you to maintain speed and will help you stay on the wave for much longer. Among surfers, the common saying is “When fat, cutback!” which requires you to ride along the face of the wave until you feel like you are losing speed or getting too far ahead of the breaking section. You must shift your weight to your back foot and turn your board towards the whitewater. As you reach the whitewater, you need to shift a good portion of your weight to your front foot and turn your board back towards the face of the wave, making your board do a roundhouse arc and get back into position. It can be a slight learning curve for new surfers to get the hang of, but keep at it – and once you have it, it’s hard to forget the feeling! Re-Entry Re-entry is when you want to hit the lip of the wave with power and style, allowing you to show off your moves and impress other surfers. Every surfer’s arsenal must include a re-entry, which can take various forms, from a simple straight up and down to an explosive re-entry with no fins. The maneuver aims to ride the lip back to the flats after rebounding from the lip. To do a re-entry, you need to approach the lip of the wave with speed and angle your board slightly towards it. Then, as you reach the lip, you need to push hard on your back foot and lift your front foot up. This will make your board go vertical and hit the lip with force, where you will need to bring your front foot down and lean forward to land back on the face of the wave. Cross Step The Cross-stepping technique is used when you want to walk along your longboard and change your position on it. It allows you to adjust your trim and balance according to the size and shape of the wave. Cross-stepping also helps you adjust your position on the board and stay in the wave’s sweet spot. Start with your feet together near the middle of your board to do a cross-step – then, you need to move one foot forward by crossing it over or behind the other foot. Then, move the other foot forward by crossing it over or behind the first foot. You need to repeat this method until you reach your desired spot on your board – and sometimes, you’ll find that you do not need to go to the … Read more

DIY E Foil: How To Build DIY E Foil surfboard

May 28, 2023by Luke Morris

Surfing has always been a thrilling water sport, but the emergence of electric hydrofoil surfboards is quickly pushing the experience to new heights. Electric foils, or E Foils, have been gaining immense popularity in the surfing world. But, as with many things, there’s enormous satisfaction in riding something you made yourself. The easiest way to build your own DIY E Foil is by buying a pre-made kit that you can assemble. These kits usually come with instructions that are relatively easy to follow if you have the necessary tools and time. Building one without a kit is possible, but it will take more planning and effort. The exact process will depend on various factors, such as if you’re using a kit (which is recommended) or doing it from scratch (if you’re very adventurous). It will also depend on which kit you use, but we will also guide you through that aspect. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to build your own DIY E Foil! Everything You Need To Know About DIY E Foil Kits And Building An Electric Surfboard You likely won’t have much success building a DIY E Foil if you don’t understand what an E Foil is. Let’s start with the basic principles and work our way up from there. What Is An E Foil, And Why Is It Gaining Popularity? E Foiling emerged as a variation of the standard hydrofoil, which is a surfboard with a mast and sail “foil.” Foiling gained popularity in the early 2000s because it was a completely different surfing experience. An E Foil is an electric hydrofoil surfboard that utilizes an electric motor and a hydrofoil wing to lift the board out of the water, allowing for a smooth and almost levitating ride. This innovative technology has gained popularity due to its unique riding experience, combining the thrill of surfing with the feeling of flying. E Foils enable riders to effortlessly glide above the water, reaching impressive speeds and exploring new dimensions of surfing. It almost feels as if you’re flying above the water’s surface, which offers a new and exciting type of thrill. Some surfers will always look down on different types of surfing, but anyone who wants to experience surfing differently will love E Foiling! How Can You Build Your Own E Foil? Building your own E Foil requires some technical skills and attention to detail, but with the proper guidance, it is perfectly achievable. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to help you through the process: Step 1: Research And Planning The first thing you must decide during this phase is whether to do it from scratch or use a DIY E Foil Kit. Kits make things easier – you have all the components and can simply assemble them following a guide. If that’s your preference, many of the steps in this list will be unnecessary. However, some users prefer to do it the long way and make everything from scratch. Once you’ve chosen your option, you should familiarize yourself with the components and design of an E Foil. It helps when you understand what it consists of and where everything goes. Then you should determine the specifications you desire for your electric surfboard and gather information and resources from online tutorials, forums, and DIY communities (more on that later). Step 2: Gather Materials And Tools Obtain the necessary tools and supplies, such as a surfboard blank, fiberglass cloth, epoxy resin, hydrofoil components, batteries, and an electric motor kit. Of course, most of the equipment will be included when you buy a DIY E Foil Kit, but you will need to get most of the tools yourself. Also, ensure you have the right safety gear, including goggles, gloves, and a respirator. Some components may be toxic, so take all the necessary precautions. Step 3: Shaping The Board Use a surfboard blank to shape the board according to your desired specifications if you’re not using a pre-made board. Then you can apply fiberglass cloth and epoxy resin to reinforce and protect the board. Step 4: Installing The Hydrofoil Carefully install the hydrofoil components, including the mast, wing, and fuselage, following the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s vital to ensure proper alignment and to secure the attachment to the board properly. You don’t want it to break off while you’re riding. Step 5: Installing The Electric Motor Kit Install the electric motor kit according to the provided instructions. Each motor is different, so carefully check the user manual or manufacturer’s website. Then connect the motor to the battery and controller. Double-check the wiring, then waterproof it properly. Step 6: Testing And Adjusting Perform a thorough dry run to check all of the components and connections. Test the board in controlled conditions to ensure its stability and performance. Make any necessary adjustments to optimize the weight, balance, and performance of the E Foil. What Are The Best DIY E Foil Kits On The Market? If you want to buy an E Foil kit, there are many reputable choices out there. You should get advice from experienced E Foilers as they can guide you based on your skill level. But, here are a few popular options. Greenlight Surf Supply LF Series Greenlight Surf Supply specializes in various surf kits, including the LF series designed explicitly for E Foiling. You may have to buy the electric motor separately, but the supplier makes a few excellent recommendations. You can buy the LF Series from Greenlight Surf Supply’s online store. VeFoil VeFoil sells custom-developed pre-made E Foils, but there are also some kits to choose from. The company specializes in experimenting with new techniques and styles to create the best E Foil possible. You can get VeFoil kits from the VeFoil website. Maytech E Foil Kit The Maytech E Foil kit is designed and manufactured in China but has an excellent reputation. It’s affordable and easy to assemble, but all the parts are well-manufactured. You can get the Maytech kit from Alibaba. Materials Required For Building An … Read more

Discovering The Best Kitesurfing Camps

May 28, 2023by Luke Morris

Kitesurfing camps are everywhere, and joining one is the quickest way to learn the exhilarating sport that merges flying with surfing. Joining a kitesurfing camp is recommended for beginners as the sport of kitesurfing can be difficult to learn without an experienced guide showing you the ropes. The best kitesurfing camps around the world include many exotic and beautiful locations, such as Cabarete in the Dominican Republic, Tarifa in Spain, and El Gouna in Egypt. The best kitesurfing camps include accommodation, meals, kitesurfing lessons, and non-kiting activities for the overall price. Joining a kitesurfing camp is easier than ever before, with a host of high-quality camps popping up in favorable locations for kitesurfing. You’ll find them in Ecuador, Morocco, Sri Lanka, Greece, and Down Under. Let’s explore where you will find some of the best kitesurfing camps around the world. Why Joining A Kitesurfing Camp Is The Best Way To Learn Kitesurfing, also referred to as kiteboarding, is a difficult activity to master, especially when starting. The sport of kitesurfing can be described as a combination of the following: Wakeboarding Windsurfing Surfing Paragliding Skateboarding Gymnastics Kitesurfing is an extreme sport involving certain elements of other extreme sports while you’re strapped to a harness pulled by a power kite…strapped to a board in the ocean at the mercy of the wind. Joining a kitesurfing camp is a wise decision if you want to enter the flying-over-the-ocean world inhabited by numerous adrenaline seekers. At a kitesurfing camp, an experienced instructor will guide you through how to use kitesurfing equipment, how to read the conditions, all the relevant safety procedures, and ultimately how to kitesurf confidently. Joining a kitesurfing camp is the quickest and most fun way to learn the ropes and confidently surf the wind. It’s estimated that it takes between 6-8 hours of one-on-one instruction to get to a level where you are comfortable to continue your kitesurfing journey without the aid of a kitesurfing coach. Top Kitesurfing Camp Destinations There are many excellent kitesurfing destinations around the world. From the sandy dunes of Morocco to the challenging Australian coast, we are blessed with high-quality kitesurfing camps and beautiful destinations. When looking for the best kitesurfing camps in the most exotic locations, look no further than the following destinations: Caribbean – Dominican Republic, Aruba, and Curaçao Americas – Brazil, Mexico, and Peru Europe – Spain, Italy, Greece, and Portugal North America – Florida, California, North Carolina Africa – Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa Asia – Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Thailand What Does It Cost To Learn To Kitesurf? Good kitesurfing camps cater to all skill levels, solo travelers, or group bookings, and their prices depend on the service they offer. The more expensive kitesurfing camps are the ones that include the following, above and beyond the kitesurfing lessons and equipment: Accommodation Meals Flights Transfers Extra activities such as sightseeing trips or additional adventure excursions in the area, such as SUP tours, horse riding, or bike and whale-watching tours A combination camp, such as a yoga-kitesurfing camp or a scuba-kitesurfing camp Alternative therapies or holistic ceremonies will also hike up the total cost of the camp On average, you can expect to pay the following for kitesurfing lessons: $100 for a 90-minute introductory lesson $150 for a supervised rental $200 for a 2-hour Private Any-Level VIP training session $300 for a 3-hour Private Any-Level VIP training session $500+ for a 3-day kitesurfing camp (excluding accommodation, transfer costs, and additional activities) $850 for a 5-day kitesurfing camp (excluding accommodation, transfer costs, and additional activities) One-on-one private lessons will always be more expensive than a two-person per-instructor lesson. $600 for a Private Half-Day training session (one student per coach) $1,000 for Full-Day Offsite Coaching (coach travels to your destination) $1,200 for a Private Full-Day training session (one student per coach) Kitesurfing camp costs range from $200 to $2,000, depending on the camp inclusions and the actual hours of training lessons per day. Most kitesurfing lessons cost around $100 per hour. If you’re joining a local kitesurfing camp, you will only pay for the lessons themselves (hours), whereas a tourist will pay for lessons, accommodation, and other inclusive services. What Is A Kitesurfing Camp? A kitesurfing camp typically consists of a structured training program, ranging from a couple of training hours per day, spread over a couple of days to a week, with the sole aim of helping participants to improve their kitesurfing skills. Kitesurfing camps provide the following: Kitesurfing lessons (specially designed according to skill levels which include beginner to advanced) Equipment rental Personalized training program provided by an experienced kitesurfing instructor or coach Accommodation Some kitesurfing camps include travel arrangements such as flights and transfers and extra non-kiting activities in the itinerary package. What Are The Benefits Of Joining A Kitesurfing Camp? The benefits of joining a kitesurfing camp are numerous. If you’re uncertain of why a kitesurfing camp is beneficial, besides learning how to kitesurf, here are a few benefits of joining a kitesurfing camp: Learning how to kitesurf with professional kitesurfing equipment and a personal kitesurfing instructor Learning how to read wind and water conditions Learning about kitesurfing safety regulations and emergency procedures Meeting new people and forming part of a community of fellow kitesurfing enthusiasts Discovering new destinations and experiencing different cultures, cuisines, customs, and natural beauty. Getting to explore the area of life outside of your comfort zone Kitesurfing is a sport that challenges you on all levels. Getting actively involved in the sport of kitesurfing is a brilliant way to challenge yourself physically and mentally. It’s good exercise and great fun, but it can take hours of one-on-one tuition to master. What Skills Can You Learn From A Kitesurfing Camp? You need a certain skill set when kitesurfing. The skillset includes balance, strength, and the ability to read weather conditions. Being able to swim and having a body in relatively good health is also recommended. When … Read more

Tom Curren: The Legendary Surfer

May 26, 2023by Luke Morris

Surfing phenomenon – with an enigmatic personality, three world titles, and an almost poetic, original wave-riding style – Tom Curren is arguably the best and most influential surfer of all time. With a name almost synonymous with surfing, Tom Curren dominated professional surfing in the 1980s. Tom Curren is a legendary surfer and three times World Champion (1985, 1986, and 1990). His artistic, graceful, and revolutionary surfing style redefined competitive surfing in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He is among the wealthiest surfers, with a net worth of around $5 Million. Despite Curren’s humble, quiet, and reclusive personality, he was a fierce competitor with an unmatched talent in the water. Here’s more about the surfing legend who changed the art of competitive surfing in the 1980s. Is Tom Curren Still Surfing? Tom Curren odically retired from the competitive surfing scene in the mid-1990s. However, he is still very present in the world of surfing. Curren occasionally participates in ASP World Qualifying Series (WQS) contests, and the Word Championship Tour (WCT) often invited him to surf as a Dreamtour wildcard in their contests. He has also competed in the Annual Switchfoot Bro-Am Surf Contest a couple of times, surfing on the Switchfoot team. The Bro-Am is dedicated to giving back to the San Diego community and local children’s charities by raising awareness and funds. Tom Curren enjoys tinkering with unconventional surfboard designs, skimboards, and bodyboards, often in pumping surf. And even though he loves surfing in his local Santa Barbara waters, he still loves traveling the world to chase down those perfect waves. Curren occasionally trades his board for his guitar. His singing and composition reflect his unique personality, marrying blues, folk, and rock. Tom Curren has released several albums and has toured extensively. How Old Is Tom Curren? Tom Curren is 58 years old today. He was born in beautiful Santa Barbara, California, on 3 July 1964. How Many World Titles Did Tom Curren Win? Tom Curren has three world titles – 1985, 1986, and 1990. He was the first American surfer to win the men’s world title. Before Kelly Slater dominated the competitive arena, Curren held the record for achieving the most event victories, with 33 wins from 1982 to 1992. Curren is also a three-time Op Pro Champion, winning in 1983, 1984, and 1988. Tom Curren’s Surfing Style And Achievements Tom Curren redefined the competitive surfing era in the 1980s with his unique, effortless wave-riding style that other surfers can only dream of emulating. He always will be one of the most stylish surfers in history. Curren is an artist, then a world-champion surfer. Opposite to surfers like Occy, who surf with aggression and sharp lines, Curren surfs with a smooth style and clean, precise sinuous lines interspersed with raw power. His original surfing style was influenced by Wayne Bartholomew (1978 world champion) and endless hours spent mastering the waves. Tom Curren maneuvers each wave with deceptive power. He sets his front foot at a 90-degree angle while standing up, tucks his back knee in, and seldom moves his feet while riding a wave. His lines are precise and perfectly blended into the next with each turn. Curren invented the iconic Double-Pump Bottom Turn, which has become the goal for every surfer since. The turn is accomplished by adding a booster second turn at the trough of the wave while climbing toward the board’s lip. The maneuver results in greater torque and rotation during the off-the-top maneuver. Curren’s brilliant surfing technique and languorous bottom turns became the pattern for nearly every young surfer during the 1980s and early 1890s. He “paved the waves” for legendary Kelly Slater and JJF; both surfers mimic Tom’s style, from soulful bottom turns to perfectly positioned arms and effortless transitions. Tom Curren successful surfing career earned him three world titles and 33 event victories. Tom Curren Achievements – The 80’s Tom Curren started impressing the judges at only 14 years old, where he began an astonishing four-year streak in the amateur division, winning the US Surfing Championships in 1978 and 1979. He also won the national and World Championship junior titles in 1980 and followed up with one World Championship victory in the men’s division. In 1981 he participated in the Katin Pro-Am, finishing runner-up to former world pro champion Shaun Tomson, but won the following year. Tom Curren turned pro before his 18th birthday and signed his first sponsorship contracts with Rip Curl and Ocean Pacific. He won the Trestles-hosted Stubbies Pro and the Marui Word Surfing Pro in Japan in 1982 and entering only four of twelve world tour events, Curren finished the year rated #19. Over the next two years, Tom Curren’s rating went from eighth to fourth, helped by his consecutive wins in the Op Pro Championship at Huntington Beach. By mid-decade, the humble and reclusive teenager was an international surfing phenomenon. In his first golden year in 1985, Tom Curren conquered five stages: Foster’s Surf Master Pro, Marui World Surfing Pro, BHP Steel International, Philishave Tracer, and Stubbie’s Surf Classic. He was the first American male surfer to win the world tour since the circuit was founded in 1976. Curren took the championship, defeating Australian rival Mark semi-finals of the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach, which is still regarded as one of the greatest matches in world tour history. Tom Curren joined Martin Potter and Tom Carroll in 1985 to help introduce world politics to surfing by boycotting the world circuit events in South Africa to protest against apartheid. In 1986, Curren went for his send golden year, conquering Marui Japan Open, Gotcha Pro, Lacanau Pro, Foster’s Surf Master Pro, and Stubbie’s US Pro. It seemed as if Curren lost interest in competing between 1987 and 1988, dropping from 5th to 15th in the ratings. He quit the tour in 1989 to spend time with … Read more

Surfing Warm-Up: Proper Preparation

May 26, 2023by Luke Morris

Any decent workout begins with a warm-up; the same goes for surfing! It is essential to prepare properly to get the most out of your surfing session, and doing a good stretch will give you all you need to catch some gnarly waves and surf them well. There are multiple reasons why a proper surfing warm-up is necessary, including increased mobility, improved oxygen levels, injury prevention, enhanced muscle temperature, improved energy levels, and mental preparation. These surfing warm-up benefits are essential for improved performance. To get your surfing prep underway, this warm-up focus will equip you with all the information you’ll need to nail your warm-up every time, yielding surprising results when you’re out on the water. How To Warm Up For Surfing: Tips And Techniques For A Safe And Successful Session Some believe they may look like a kook when they warm up before a session, but pro surfers do it all the time before competitions, and it’s genuinely in your best interest to get your pre-session flowing. Also, nobody likes an injury, especially when it’s entirely preventable by trading in ten minutes of your time. Do you want an extra performance boost? Pre-surf warm-ups are your answer, thanks to improved oxygen flow, warmed-up muscles, and increased energy levels. Warm-ups are simple and offer you so many benefits – it’s an opportunity you don’t want to pass up. Warming up doesn’t just prepare your body – your mind gets ready too! Due to increased oxygen flow and the slight exercise you put your body through, your body releases hormones like cortisol and epinephrine, which manage your energy levels before you even begin surfing. In summary, the benefits of a pre-surf warm-up include: injury prevention amplified mobility improved oxygen exchange increased muscle temperature improved energy levels boosted performance mental preparation Tip #1: Take It Easy You might think warm-ups are tedious and energy-consuming, but that is not true. Warm-ups are supposed to be short and non-strenuous. Your prep should only last between five and ten minutes. Surfing warm-ups are yoga-inspired and low-impact but still give your muscles what they need to function when you catch some waves. Warm-ups are not supposed to feel like a workout; you’re probably over-exerting yourself if it feels that way. Relax and focus on getting the movements right instead of doing them as quickly as possible. Feel the flow and enjoy moving your body – you’ll notice how much your warm-up makes a difference once you’re on the water. Tip #2: Focus On Breathing Since yoga is a surf-warmup inspiration, you should get some breathwork into the warm-up mix to facilitate relaxation, proper oxygen flow, and release of necessary hormones. Breathwork also prevents muscle fatigue. When you breathe during warm-ups, you need to inhale through your nose until you feel as if your lungs have reached total capacity, pause briefly, and then exhale through your mouth, slightly forcing it out using your abdomen. Never hold your breath for long periods! You’ll want to follow the ‘exhale on exertion’ rule to ensure you get your breathing right, meaning that you should breathe out when you use the most energy, like when moving a muscle into a strenuous position. So, breathe in as you act out a movement, and exhale when you’ve completed the muscle placement. Tip #3: Warm-Up Key Areas You use your hands, arms, neck, shoulders, spine, abdomen, hips, and legs to surf, which are the key muscle groups you must focus on during a warm-up routine. You should preferably make room for all these muscle groups, but your hands and arms aren’t 100% necessary if you feel impatient. Your core focus should be on your shoulders, spine, hips, and legs, as that’s what you use most, and loosening them up will give you results and prevent serious injury. If you have any particularly stiff muscles, be sure to add them to your warm-up regimen and give extra focus on them as they are injury prone. Pre-Surf Warm-Up: Essential Exercises To Get Your Body Ready A pre-surf warm-up happens outside of the water, as it partially preps you for water temperatures. In-water drills aren’t as necessary as pre-surf ones because they’re more of a practice and water acclimatization than anything else – but we’ll delve further into them in a moment! You can perform your pre-surf regimen on the beach or nearby grass. These following pre-surf warm-ups are the main ones that focus on multiple muscle groups, but you can find others that work just as well. Remember to breathe out when you exert your muscles! Six to eight reps of each warm-up will be sufficient. Neck Rolls Neck rolls help prepare your neck and cervical spine. You start by standing in a proper posture, relaxing your shoulders, and looking forward. Tilt your head to your chest, and roll it until it moves above your shoulder. Rest for a second and roll it back to the center. Then roll it to the left, hold it, and repeat in the opposite direction each time. Torso Twist Keep your arms extended and slightly loose. Sway them all the way right while twisting the top half of your body with them until you’ve turned them as far as possible. Use your left leg while doing this to lean right into the twist. You can dip into a slight squat as you twist past the center of your body. Then you should sway your body and extended arms to the left, using your right leg to lean into it. Repeat from left to right and back again. There should be a seamless flowing movement when you twist from side to side. Spinal Roll Stand up straight. Start inhaling, hunch your shoulders forward, and slowly reach for your toes while rolling your spine along. Once you’ve got as low as possible, you can exhale. Then slowly rise, moving your spine upward, and once you’re back in a standing position, angle your shoulders backward. This movement is all in … Read more

Longboard Surfing Vs Shortboard Surfing

May 26, 2023by Luke Morris

An unabating feud has long existed between long- and shortboard surfers ever since shortboards entered the surf scene in the late 1960s. While both have strong arguments supporting their side, we are all essentially doing the same thing – riding the tides! If you’re an aspiring surfer, you may wonder which is right for you. Longboards are more buoyant, stable, and easier to ride. They are ideal for beginners and surfers looking for a laidback surfing experience. Shortboards are designed for high-performance and powerful waves. They are difficult to ride, making them better suited for intermediate and expert riders. Although both longboard and shortboard surfboards belong on the waves, an extra three or four feet of foam can make all the difference. Let’s compare the difference between the two surfboard styles to discover which suits you best. Difference Between Longboard Surfing And Shortboard Surfing The primary difference between a longboard and a shortboard include the length, shape, foam volume, fin setup, surf level, and the wave type they’re intended for. If you want to skip the reading, take a quick scan through the seven main differences: Longboard Surfboard Shortboard Surfboard Length 9ft + 5ft to 7ft Shape Wide, curved outline (rounded nose) Pointer, upturned tip (rocker nose) Foam Volume High Low Fin Setup · A large single central fin · Central fin and two smaller trailer fins on each side Smaller fins with various setups · Twin-fin · Thruster · Quad · Bonza (five fins) Surf Level Beginner + Intermediate + Maneuverability Slow Very Responsive Wave Type · Any wave · The ideal is 1 to 3ft green wave · Large range, but better suited in larger surf · The ideal wave is 2ft+ Now, for those looking for a bit more detail, let’s look at each board. Traditionally, longboards have a height upwards of 9 feet – they should measure at least three feet taller than the surfer’s height. These surfboards feature wide decks, large, rounded noses, and thick foam rails for increased volume. They are typically set up with a single fin but occasionally feature two smaller trailer fins on each side. Shortboards range between 5 to 7 feet in height. They are low volume and feature a pointier shape and thinner foam rails. Shortboards have much smaller fins available in various setups, including twin-fin, thruster, quad, and bonza. Longboard surfboards offer a more laid-back cruising experience. They are easy to paddle, stable, and guarantee to catch more waves and ride them for longer. Longboards are suitable for a range of surfers, from beginners to professionals and avid longboarders. Logging – a common surf term for riding a longboard – has experienced a revival since the shortboard revolution. If you are collecting a quiver of surfboards, adding a classic longboard to your collection is a must! Shortboards are specially designed for speed and high maneuverability; their high turn response makes them ideal for larger, more powerful waves. However, their small size makes them much harder to paddle and balance – they are better suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. Advantages And Disadvantages Of Shortboard Surfing Shortboard surfboards range onto the high-performance spectrum of surfing. The better you understand the surf, the better you can channel the power and speed of a shortboard. Here’s a rundown of a shortboard’s advantages and disadvantages. Advantages Of Shortboard Surfing Here are the top advantages of a shortboard: Performance:It is specially designed for speed, high maneuverability, and high-performance surfing. Size:The small size and light weight make the surfboard easy to transport and store. Duck diving:The shortboard is the easiest to duck dive and get “out the back.” Hollow waves:The shortboard has a more prominent rocker in its nose, making it perfect for steep drop-ins and hollow, barrelling waves. Durability:Shortboards are mostly from epoxy or EPS blanks, making them highly durable. Versatile:They have a wide variety of fin setups – twin-fin, thruster, quad, and bonza. Disadvantages Of Shortboard Surfing Here are the disadvantages of a shortboard: Advanced: Shortboards are the most challenging to surf. They are better suited for intermediate to professional surfers with solid technique. Usability: Shortboards are built for optimal performance. They do not perform well in small, mellow waves. Paddling: The lack of volume makes it harder to paddle. Choosing Between Longboard Surfing And Shortboard Surfing: Factors To Consider From skill level to wave shape and board style, there are various factors that you need to consider when choosing between a longboard and a shortboard. 1. Skill Level What is your skill level? If you’re a beginner, you’ll want to opt for a longboard. It’s easier to ride and more forgiving than a shortboard thanks to its wider, more stable shape. If you’re an advanced surfer, consider getting a more performance-orientated shortboard to help push your limits and grow your skill. 2. Fitness Level You’ll be surprised how big of a role fitness plays in choosing the correct surfboard for the best surfing experience. You don’t want to compromise your wave count on account of your surfing fitness (or rather, your lack thereof). A high-volume longboard adds buoyancy to your surfboard, making it easier to paddle into the lineup. Remember, you still want enough paddle power to catch those waves! As you gain stamina, your paddling and endurance will improve. Stronger paddles allow you to consider switching to a thinner, less buoyant shortboard to enjoy a more performance-based ride. 3. Wave Type What wave type do you enjoy surfing most? Naturally, your skill level will impact the wave types you’re riding. Here’s the best surfboard based on the wave type: Small waves: Longboards with a high volume are best for small, slow waves and for cruising around those ankle biters. Medium waves: You can still have a blast riding a medium wave on a longboard, but you can also consider busting out your performance shortboard. Big waves: Intermediate and advanced surfers should use their shortboards to challenge bigger, hollow waves and to catch a barrel. Most surfers have a … Read more

John John Florence, a Surfing Superstar Pushing the Limits

May 26, 2023by Luke Morris

John John Florence is one of the best, most influential surfers of our time. When it comes to progression and pushing the limits in waves of all types and sizes, John is unrivaled. Big waves, small waves, onshore waves, hollow waves, Pipe waves, John is the best in all of them—the ultimate all-rounder. John has performed some of the best surfing ever seen by anyone in waves of consequence, matching it with above-the-lip antics and the smoothest face carves on big open faces you’ll ever see. Few match John as an all-rounder, and fewer still with the diverse accolades to back it. Many professionals have preferences in wave type, size, and shape and have become known for being the best in specific conditions. For instance, Filipe Toledo in small waves or Jack Robinson in big hollow waves. John doesn’t fit that mold and is exceptional in all types of surfing. In this article, we dive into the life of the 2x world champion. We’ll discover where he grew up, how he got so damn good at surfing, and the accolades he has collected throughout his career. We will also check out his personal life, how his family life shaped his surfing, and what John is up to outside of surfing. The man has done a lot and is still only 31 at the time of writing this article, which means we have a lot to get through in the life of John; let’s get down to it. The Early Years of John John Florence John John, or John Florence as he is called now, was born in Honolulu on October 18, 1992. At 6ft 1 and 84kg, he’s grown into a tall, built-out figure, a body shape and figure that translates favorably to today’s speed, power, and flow judging criteria. Florence is well-versed in waves of consequence, which is unsurprising considering where he grew up. John grew up on one of the most notorious stretches of the coast in surfing. The North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. The North Shore. A young John was raised with his two younger brothers in a small beachfront property facing directly into the most notorious waves on earth–Pipeline. The heaviest, scariest, and most insanely beautiful wave on earth, but one that has claimed more lives than any other and a break by which all other waves are measured—Johns’s front yard. John was riding waves with his mum as early as six months old and was out surfing by himself by age 5. Yep, five! His mother, Alex, a keen and stylish longboarder herself, introduced John to surfing at an extremely young age, taking him surfing and watching over him as he progressed onto bigger and heavier waves along the stretch known as the seven-mile miracle. John would quickly make a name for himself, becoming that tiny blonde kid, pulling into huge barrels at the North Shore’s most notorious breaks. By age eight, he was surfing Pipeline regularly, standing in huge blue barrels, his long blonde hair falling down his back, getting spit out of waves where multiple young Johns could fit. Magazine photos and clips of young John surfing these waves began to emerge, and he quickly became a stand-out name in surfing circles. He spent years competing in NSSA events across the US. Although he faired poorly compared to other up-and-comers, like Kolohe Andino, he would become the youngest surfer ever to compete in the prestigious Triple Crown of Surfing. The Triple Crown is held at Haleiwa, Sunset, and Pipeline, three events held at the most notable waves on the North Shore–proving a surfer’s ultimate ability on the North Shore (the most important area to master as a professional surfer). John, although eliminated early, competed in these contests aged just 13. The Rise to Fame of John John Florence John soon became a stand-out at waves across the North Shore, and Kelly Slater is quoted saying, “John will go on to develop a deeper knowledge than any one of the North Shore waves,” He was right. Fast forward to today, and John is one of the best to ever surf Pipeline–winning multiple awards and surfing some of the craziest tubes ridden out there. He would go on to qualify for the World Championship Tour, and although his results weren’t bad by most surfer’s standards, he would struggle on tour initially. On his first seasons on tour, he finished; 34th, 4th, 10th, and 14th before winning his first world title in 2016. He went back to back, winning the title again in 2017, becoming the first Hawaiian to win back-to-back titles since Andy Irons. John is also the youngest surfer to win the Triple Crown and has won the notorious Volcom Pipe Pro an incredible four times. In 2011, John won the event in dramatic fashion, in what many call the best final ever. The final was against John’s neighbor and friend–another Pipe specialist called Jamie Obrien (one of the few Pipe surfers that rival John at Pipe). The final was all but done, with Jamie boasting a 19-point heat total and John still needing a huge score. The friends shook hands, and John congratulated his friend with a few seconds to go. Jamie collapsed in celebration off his board, and as he did so, a wave popped up down the reef. John sprint paddles across to it, and Jamie chases him with ten seconds to go! John paddles far across as if to go left at Pipeline, but changes his mind last second, fades right, and gets ridiculously barreled to earn himself 10 points and the Pipe Pro title. In John’s first world title year, he enlisted the help and knowledge of coach and fellow Hawaiian Ross Williams. The pair would develop a training program, work on boards and go into attack mode in heat strategy and mindset. Just before the start of the 2016 season, John won the iconic Eddie Aikua event at 30ft Waimea Bay, beating some of the best big … Read more

Top Surf Yoga Retreat | Travel Guide

May 20, 2023by Luke Morris

Yoga and surfing have become increasingly popular among people who want a healthy lifestyle. Also, it is a way to connect with nature, a major encouragement for many. Suppose you are seeing a combination of these two practices. In that case, a surf yoga retreat is the best place for you as it allows you to immerse yourself in a week-long experience of yoga, surfing, and relaxation in nature. You can visit many surf yoga retreats, making it easy to get confused. But if you are looking for a place in a charming coastal town that offers the setting for surfing, and a picturesque ambiance, you’ve come to the right place. Our experts have handpicked the best all-inclusive surf and yoga vacations to visit. Best 8 Surf Yoga Retreats to Visit If surfing with the best boards or a yoga vacation seems pleasing, know you can find incredible yoga and surf retreats worldwide. Here are the eight best yoga and surf retreat to visit. Bodhi Surf Yoga Located in the Bahia Ballena-Uvita, Bodhi surf yoga was founded in 2010 by three surfer enthusiasts from different corners of the world. The mission of this retreat in Costa Rica was to educate, inspire, and empower visitors to live more sustainably through yoga, surfing, nature immersion, and community engagement. This retreat hosts three different modalities of camp; the Bodhi Awaken, a two-week long bodysurfing ocean awareness of surfing and yoga. The Bodhi Family is a one-week camp for families passionate about surfing. In contrast, the Bodhi Sessions is a one-week camp for adults who want to surf and engage in yoga sessions. At each of the camps, surfing is taught theoretically and practically to help you understand the fundamentals of surfing. The accommodation is also decent, with options for four and a maximum of 10 guests per week in either bungalows or rooms. The bungalow has a kitchenette, and the rooms have a shared kitchen. Overall, this surf yoga retreat is affordable for everyone. Surf Simply – Surf Yoga Retreat The surf is another surf & yoga retreat in Costa Rica in the Playa Guiones, Nosara. Founded in 2007 by Rupert Hill, Surf has since grown to be one of the most renowned retreats in Costa Rica. As a high-end coasting resort with luxurious buildings and professional coast, it makes sense why it books visitors all year long. This resort in Costa Rica runs coaching courses in Peru, the UK, and parts of Indonesia and France. So, if you want to take your surfing skills to the next level, the surf is a destination located on the edge of the nature reserve. The course includes a seven-day session from Saturday until next Saturday. The accommodations at surf hold awards for minimizing the environmental impact on its construction and everyday operation. It has ten bedrooms with king-size beds, an air conditioner, Wi-Fi, shared living space, a pool, a hot tub, and many more. Surf Simply’s approach to increasing the quality by limiting its visits to only 12 surfers a week makes it a competitive destination. Sansara Surf and Yoga Retreat Created to share space to encourage surfers to tap into their potential, Sansara surf and yoga resort is perfect for all surfers. At Sansara, it helps surfers restore their balance and draw energy from the community, whether through inspiring yoga or surf retreats, healing exercises, and creative dining experiences. Sansara retreat is a destination for every surfer, irrespective of your skill level. As an eco-resort, it is surrounded by lush tropical forests and pristine beaches where you can practice catching waves in real time. The unique experience with yogis and suffering helps you build a community of like minds. Visitors at Sansara can choose from various accommodations, such as oceanfront villas, cozy garden cabanas, and so on, all designed to provide relaxation and comfort. The retreat features a beautiful infinity pool, delicious restaurants, and a range of wellness activities such as meditation, hiking, massages, etc. Don Jon’s Surf and Yoga Lodge Located in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, Don Jon’s surf and yoga lodge is a world-class sport with beautiful waves. Its white sand beaches and picturesque sunsets make this destination perfect for connecting with nature. It is a laid-back destination known globally for its stunning natural setting. Guests who want to experience the authentic and comfortable Costa Rican experience can do so at Don Jon’s surf and yoga lodge. The retreat features a beautiful outdoor yoga shala, a refreshing saltwater pool, and a healthy and delicious restaurant for refreshing and international cuisines. Don Jon’s Surf and Yoga Retreat are dedicated to providing guests with a holistic experience that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. In addition to surfing and yoga, guests can enjoy various wellness activities such as massages, acupuncture, and Reiki. With its focus on community and sustainability, Don Jon’s Surf and Yoga Retreat is the perfect destination for those seeking a transformative and rejuvenating experience in the heart of Costa Rica. The Salty Pelican Retreat The Salty Pelican Retreat, a surf & yoga retreat in Sri Lanka, is a laid-back and charming destination in Portugal. This retreat is a place that offers its visitors a balance of relaxation, surfing, and yoga. And its proximity to the beach makes it a place to get the best surfing classes and yoga sessions for those looking to refresh their mind. The Salty Pelican also offers comfortable and cozy accommodations to its visitors, all of which are designed with bohemian and rustic style. Its accommodations reflect its laid-back vibe, where guests can enjoy the beautiful ambiance of the outdoors from the terrace or converse with like-minded surfers at the cozy indoor lounge. Also, this destination offers guests several wellness activities they can engage in, such as massage, hiking, and so on. Guests can also take their time to visit nearby attractions in Lisbon and Sintra to boost their experience at this retreat. Adventure Yogi Cornwall Retreat The Adventure Yogi Cornwall Retreat is a unique and … Read more

Why Don’t Surfers Like Bodyboarding?

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

Surfing and bodyboarding have a well-documented rivalry that’s spanned too long even to remember how it started. Though it’s not as fierce as it used to be, there’s still some animosity occasionally, and nobody can ever say precisely why they feel the way they do. So, why don’t surfers like bodyboarding? Is there even an answer? Some surfers look down on bodyboarding because they see the sport as a less skilled version of surfing. Bodyboarders also add competition in the water since more people are now competing for the perfect waves. Unfortunately, the origins of the rivalry are unclear, so nobody knows how it began. Bodyboarders and surfers want the same thing: the thrill of riding the perfect wave. This makes it strange that surfers often don’t like bodyboarders, but it is an unfortunate fact. Let’s look at the phenomenon more closely to try and find the reasons why. What Is Bodyboarding? Bodyboarding became a commercial sport in 1971, but it was an ancient form of riding waves that, according to most sources, originated with the Polynesian people. It involves riding waves in a prone position on your belly. We know that it dates at least as far back as the 1700s when Captain Cook saw natives of Hawaii riding the waves this way. Today, bodyboarding is an accepted sport that requires a unique board that doesn’t have a ventral fin, so it’s considerably different from a regular surfboard. By all indications, it’s highly possible that bodyboarding (or “Alaia,” as the Polynesian natives called it) predates surfing as we know it today. Why Do Some Surfers Look Down On Bodyboarding? Though nobody can tell for sure, there are two reasons that surfers often quote when asked why they don’t like bodyboarders. The first is a matter of skill. Surfers tend to look at bodyboarding as a low-skill sport compared to surfing. Since bodyboarders don’t stand upright, they don’t have to learn to maintain balance and stand up on a moving board, which makes it seem like an inferior sport. Their second point is that bodyboarders make it more difficult for surfers to ride the perfect wave, and they make the sea more crowded and add competition for the waves. Waves are not like skateboarding tubes – they come and go. Some are great, and others are complete duds. When the beach is crowded with people looking to ride the waves, the perfect ones are harder to find and get to on time. When we consider the perception that surfers see bodyboarding as inferior, it makes sense that they will see the competition as unfair and feel that bodyboarders are “taking up space.” How Are Surfing And Bodyboarding Different? The main difference between surfing and bodyboarding is the position. Surfing requires standing while riding the waves, while bodyboarding is done in a prone position. But this simple difference makes a big difference. First of all, bodyboarding is far more accessible than surfing. While there are children that surf, they are few and tend to be closer to their teenage years. Bodyboarding is accessible to anyone, including very young children. It also means that bodyboards require far less maintenance and attention than surfboards – you don’t have to polish them, for example. They are also much smaller and easier to transport. Becoming a bodyboarder is much easier than a surfer since standing up on a surfboard requires considerable skill. On the other hand, surfing gives you access to much larger waves than bodyboarding, making many consider surfing more fun. Can Bodyboarding Be A Good Way To Learn How To Surf? Depending on your skill level, age, size, and balance, bodyboarding can be the ideal way to progress to surfing. Many surfing schools start newbies off on a bodyboard instead of a surfboard, especially young children. This helps newcomers to learn the basics of riding waves and become familiar with the ocean and the types of waves. Some people find it easiest to just skip straight to surfing, so it will vary from person to person, but bodyboarding is generally considered an excellent starting point. The History Of The Surfing Vs. Bodyboarding Rivalry It’s unclear exactly how the rivalry began, but looking at history (and understanding human nature), we can make some educated guesses. We know that bodyboarding originated before surfing, but when surfing started among the Polynesian people, it was the royalty who would stand upright on their boards. This led to modern surfers referring to surfing as the “sport of kings,” It remained that way for many years because of the amount of skill required to surf, and it was an elite sport that only a select few could do. Then, in the 1970s, a massive influx of people braved the waves on their smaller bodyboards that required less skill. Suddenly, the surfers found their “kingdom” challenged by a commercial hit – bodyboarding. Anyone could do it, and everyone did, which made surfing “cheap” in some people’s eyes. Tom Morey, the man who commercialized bodyboarding, was a surfer himself, but he wanted to bring a type of surfing to the people who couldn’t surf. It’s a noble goal, and it was massively successful, but the “elite” members of the surfing community did not take kindly to this. The good news is that the rivalry is less pronounced than it used to be, and more and more surfers are starting to support bodyboarding and living in peace with bodyboarders, even if they will never touch a bodyboard. Tips For Bodyboarders Who Want To Surf Bodyboarding helps to prepare you for surfing since you learn to read waves and understand the water. However, surfing requires many additional skills that bodyboarding won’t teach you. So, if you’re planning to switch to surfing, here are some tips that can help you do that: It’s all about progression. You might be able to get on a surfboard and find your feet pretty quickly, but that’s not how it usually goes. … Read more

Which Is Harder: Kitesurfing Or Surfing?

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

Let’s face it, kitesurfing and controlling a kite and a board simultaneously looks harder than surfing. Although, we all know that appearances can be deceiving. According to sports enthusiasts who have tried both water sports, surfing is harder than kitesurfing. Surfing takes longer to master and demands greater physical strength and energy to paddle to the waves. Surfing is also far more dependent on optimal surfing conditions than kitesurfing. If you want to know what kitesurfing and surfing’s main difference and challenges are, including their optimal wind requirements, safety considerations, advantages, disadvantages, and similarities, and determine which sport is best for you – read on! Exploring The Differences And Challenges Of Both Water Sports Apart from their equipment and varying skill sets, the overriding difference between kitesurfing and surfing is that the latter is far more dependent on optimal surfing conditions. Kite surfers don’t need great waves, and they can enjoy their sport more often, even in rough conditions that are not ideal for surfing, if it’s windy enough. However, kitesurfing is expensive as it requires a kite, bar, seat harness, safety leash, door board, and added extras like water shoes and a wet suit, with added maintenance and replacement costs to factor in. Surfing is far more affordable as you can pick up a budget-friendly board and a leash for under $400, and you’re ready to hit the waves. The Main Differences Whereas both kitesurfing and surfing are both ocean-based water sports, that’s where their similarities end as they are entirely different water sports for the following reasons: Kitesurfing requires wind, while surfing needs waves. Kiteboards tend to be sturdier than surfboards, especially fiberboards. Kitesurfing can be enjoyed on flat water surfaces like lakes, unlike surfing which requires waves. Physical Strength And Endurance Even though kitesurfing may be exhausting until you learn to use the wind to your advantage, it requires far less strength and physical fitness than surfing. Although, that does not mean you won’t get a full-body workout. Surfing is a high-intensity sport as you must paddle to catch waves and return to reach the peak. It requires much more physical strength and energy than kitesurfing. Training There is a consensus that kitesurfing is easier to learn than surfing. However, it does take time to master the art of flying a kite and riding on a board at the same time. Compared with surfing, which takes far more time to learn, kite surfers with the right equipment can stay upright and hit the waves after roughly 12 hours of coaching. And, with a few added practice hours, feel completely at ease. Wind Conditions The ideal surfing conditions for the best, sustained waves are when there is no wind or a very light offshore wind that blows in the direction of the ocean. Although, it should come as no surprise that prime kitesurfing wind conditions are 15-25 knots, with 12 knots being the minimum wind strength. And the wind direction is also crucial in kitesurfing as it should blow from side to shore or from a side to onshore direction. Even though it is true that somewhat offshore winds result in better waves, they can be risky and pull inexperienced surfers into the ocean. Key Safety Considerations According to research, kitesurfing is far riskier than surfing, backed up by the high number of serious accidents yearly. Kitesurfing Safety Considerations Here are a few kitesurfing safety considerations to mitigate all those risks: Check the weather forecast before you go kiting. Maintain your equipment, and don’t use secondhand gear. Familiarize yourself with how your safety gear works and carry a side cutter. Accept that you may lose or damage your kit in an emergency. Surfing Safety Precautions Even though surfing is less risky, here are a few safety precautions to prevent injuries: Add a protective nose guard to an existing board or invest in a new one with a blunt nose and flexible fins. Use a wetsuit to avoid seabed abrasions and provide sun protection and buoyancy. Most importantly, always wear leg ropes, particularly when surfing massive waves. Kitesurfing Vs Surfing: Advantages And Disadvantages Kitesurfing’s most significant advantage is that it offers many more opportunities than surfing, as you don’t have to wait for stellar waves. However, you may need to wait for favorable winds. Additionally, kiteboards are more versatile as you can achieve greater heights and speeds than on a surfboard. However, apart from the cost, kitesurfing’s biggest disadvantage is that the equipment may get damaged, and your beachside prep time will take longer before you can hit the waves. In stark contrast, your surfing beachside setup is far more time and cost-efficient than kitesurfing. But surfing’s most significant downsides are that you will need to wait for the best waves and compete with tuns of other surfers in the process. Are There Any Similarities Between Kitesurfing And Surfing? Contrary to belief, there are some similarities between these two water sports. Most notably, they rely on directional boards to assist airborne riders. Another similarity, compared to traditional wooden boards, is that they both use boards equipped with foam props that allow for a much smoother ride when airborne. Can You Transition From One Sport To The Other? Even though most folks assume that transitioning from surfing to kitesurfing is a breeze, that is not always the case, as they require different skill sets. However, any board sport like surfing that needs board control will be helpful. Learning how to handle a kite and a board simultaneously will take time if you want to master kitesurfing. What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Between Kitesurfing and Surfing? Kitesurfing is an excellent option if you don’t have budget constraints, live near a windy beach, are in relatively good shape, and want a quick learning curve. Although surfing is preferable if your local beach is wind-free … Read more

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