Luke Morris

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

What Is A Duck Dive In Surfing?

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

You might be new to surfing and unfamiliar with terms like “duck dive” and “turtle roll,” or perhaps you’ve heard about them but never practiced them before. In truth, these two techniques will change how you surf forever and make it much easier to paddle to the lineup! So, what is a duck dive, and should you duck dive or turtle roll? A duck dive is a surfing technique that enables a surfer to dive underneath an oncoming wave and more easily paddle out to a lineup. Duck diving is better for big waves and surfboards with less volume, while turtle rolling works well for smaller waves and surfboards with lower volume. Let’s break down the differences between duck diving and turtle rolling, discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each technique, and go over a step-by-step guide on how to do them. We’ll also cover handy tips for improving these techniques and discuss why they are essential to your surfing toolkit! What Is A Duck Dive In Surfing? A duck dive is a technique that surfers use to safely navigate through oncoming waves when paddling out to the lineup, which is the area where the waves break, and surfers wait for the perfect waves to ride. What Are The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Duck Diving? There are significant advantages to mastering duck diving, but it also comes with its drawbacks. Here are the essential benefits and drawbacks you need to know! Benefits: Duck diving allows you to efficiently navigate through oncoming waves that would other push you back and allows you to keep paddling out to the lineup so you can get into position for the next ride. You’ll conserve a lot of energy by avoiding waves that may push you back toward the shore. Maintaining control of your board is easier, meaning there’s less risk of wipeouts and collisions with other surfers. You avoid long swims back to the beach in case your leash breaks. Drawbacks: Duck diving demands a lot of strength and stamina, especially when it comes to large waves. It takes some practice, especially for new surfers. You must time the oncoming wave perfectly, or you will lose momentum and get pushed back. If you do not duck dive properly, you’ll damage your surfboard. Incorrectly pressing on your board can create pressure dings, delamination, or snap your board. How Do You Duck Dive? While duck diving will take some practice before you master it, here are the steps you need to know: When you see an oncoming wave, increase your paddle speed before you duck dive to ensure you have enough momentum to dive underwater and back out of the wave. Using your hands, push the nose of your board nose-first under the water, with your hands in a push-up position and by your side holding on to the rails. With your hands in a push-up position and holding onto the board’s rails, push the board’s nose under the water. Make sure to push it nose-first to reduce resistance. Slide your foot up and underneath you so that it’s on the tail of your board, and use it to push down – while still pushing down on your board’s nose with your hands. Once you and your board are successfully under the wave, release your legs, slide your hands toward your board’s nose, and perform a frog kick to give you a boost of speed to the surface. Tips For Improving Your Duck Dive Paddle hard to gain enough speed so that you can get deep enough for the water’s cylindrical effect to pull you back up to the surface. If you’re going too slow, your board won’t submerge properly, and it will start to wobble and want to surface because of its natural buoyancy. Duck dive as close to the wave as possible so that you can dive underneath the whitewater rather than getting slammed by the force of the water. You must extend and push your board forward after duck diving; otherwise, it may pull you back. Most Common Mistakes Surfers Make When Duck Diving Don’t stop paddling in fear when you see a wave approaching you; you must keep paddling to gather momentum and push through. When you push down the nose of your board, remember to push down the tail, or your backside will remain stuck in the air, and the wave will push you back. Your average board and leash are both 6 feet, plus your body makes 18 feet. Don’t let go of your board because you have about an 18-foot strike range to hit other surfers, so watch your surroundings. What Is A Turtle Roll In Surfing? A turtle roll is a technique that surfers use to maneuver under an oncoming wave and prevent it from pushing them back. It allows them to reach the lineup – the place where waves form – to catch the perfect wave. What Are The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Turtle Rolling? Turtle rolling can be an effective way to hold onto your position in a lineup and save energy, but this technique has benefits and drawbacks. Benefits: You can more easily navigate through larger waves that are too difficult to duck dive. It helps you to conserve energy preventing you from having to paddle around the wave. You’ll avoid getting pushed back and maintain your position in the lineup. It’s an effective alternative to duck diving if you’re a beginner or find it hard to duck dive. Drawbacks: ou must have good timing and technique to avoid getting caught by the wave and tossed around underwater. It can be challenging especially when the water is turbulent, or the wind is howling. If you don’t do it properly, your board can hit and injure you, or the wave will drag you under. If you let your board go, it can injure other nearby or unaware surfers. It’s less efficient than a duck dive because you don’t go as … Read more

Traveling With Your SUP: You Need To Know

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

Are you going somewhere with a stellar SUP location? Taking your stand-up paddleboard with you might feel like a tricky task, but you won’t regret bringing it along if you’re an avid paddler. You’ll be thrilled to know that you are able to bring your SUP anywhere you go! If you want to travel with a SUP, you’ll benefit more from an inflatable one, especially if you’re taking a flight. Flight costs with a regular SUP might be as expensive as a new inflatable one. Inflatable paddleboards are easy to carry in a high-quality SUP backpack. Traveling with an inflatable paddleboard is in your best interest, as a hard SUP might be too large for flights and public transport. Whether flying, traveling by car, or taking public transport, here’s everything you need to know about traveling with your beloved SUP. Flying With An Inflatable SUP The world has an endless supply of stunning SUP spots, and not all of them have a SUP rental shop. Taking your paddleboard along is easier than you think! You’ll want an inflatable SUP, especially if you often travel, because a non-inflatable is much more challenging and will cost you more than an entry-level inflatable. Inflatable paddleboards range from $200 to $1500, but you can easily find a decent one in the $250 to $400 range. Considering that you’ll pay at least $100 one way on a flight and need to spend extra on a rental car for a solid SUP, you’ll thank yourself for purchasing a new one that’s travel friendly. Can You Take Your SUP On A Plane? Yes, you can take your paddleboard on a flight! Inflatable SUPs shrink down enough to make them portable. Many SUP enthusiasts have traveled successfully with their boards – both inflatable and solid, but your best bet, as mentioned, is an inflatable one. You’ll also need a 3-piece paddle to make packing easier. You’ll need to pay extra to transport your paddleboard, but many have been lucky enough to pass through luggage control for free. If your paddleboard and gear fit within your carry-on weight limit, you won’t face too much of a hassle; otherwise, you’ll pay extra. American Airlines has a 70 lbs. weight limit for your gear, while other airlines max out at 100 lbs. Fees range from $50 to $150 per flight. United and U.S Airways are the most expensive airlines to transport your SUP, with fees of $200. If you have an epoxy SUP, you’ll want to ensure your SUP length is no longer than 9.6 feet. Airlines classify SUPs under surfboards if you want to call the airline for information. How To Pack An Inflatable SUP For Air Travel You should purchase an inflatable SUP travel bag for maximum protection and ease of transport. You should choose a bag with heavy-duty zips, padded straps, and grab handles, and if you can find one with wheels, you’re in for a much easier time walking through the airport! You should also find a bag that has extra space so that you can pack in other gear. When you roll up your SUP, you should wrap it around your paddle and pump to protect them from the rough handling that airport luggage goes through. It will be a grand idea if you wrap your bag with an extra layer of protection by using the airport luggage wrapping service. This will ensure your gear sits snug and lessens the chance of damage. Inflating Your SUP After Arriving At Your Destination You’ll need a pump to take with you to your destination; otherwise, it’s a pointless exercise lugging it on the plane! You can unwrap your pump, assemble it, and blow up your SUP at your paddleboarding location. It’s best only to inflate your SUP when you’re using it and then deflate it once you’re done to make transit easier. Tips For Flying With An Inflatable SUP Just in case you’re still a little lost on going airborne with your SUP, these tips should help: Contact your airline to find out their luggage policy, especially if you’re transporting an epoxy SUP. Wrapping your bag with an extra layer helps with additional protection. If you’ve wrapped your bag, write your name and address with a permanent marker in case your travel tags fall off. Wrap your pump hose on the outside of your SUP. Lock your zips or cable ties with a lock so nothing falls out. It would help if you arrived earlier for check-in, as it might take extra time to get your SUP through. Only mention that you’re transporting a SUP if necessary to avoid extra costs; instead, get by with paying for luggage weight. Transporting Your SUP By Car Securing your epoxy paddleboard to your car is essential for your SUP adventures! Not everyone needs to catch a flight to their SUP location, so if you’re using an inflatable paddleboard, you can use a bag, but you won’t need to wrap your pump and paddle in the middle of the board because the transit isn’t rough. Epoxy and already-inflated SUPs need a roof rack if you’re traveling by car because, as you know – they’re huge! If your car doesn’t have a roof rack already, you’ll need to install one, preferably one designed for a SUP. If you’re transporting via a pickup truck, you can transport it in the back, with the deck facing down and the nose supported by the tailgate, with padding underneath. You’ll also need to secure it with ropes. How To Secure Your SUP To Your Car Roof You’ll need a few things to attach your SUP to the roof rack: Crossbar: If you don’t have a SUP rack, you’ll need a bar that runs across the roof for stability. Rack padding: Your racks need padding to prevent damaging your SUP. You can use foam blocks or pool noodles. Cam straps: Cam straps are the most convenient, sturdy type of straps. You’ll need two 12-foot-length straps. Extra rope: … Read more

Traveling with Windsurfing Gear: Tips

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

If you enjoy windsurfing, it is only natural that you will want to explore the world and ensure you always have your kit with you. If you do not want to rent equipment from a local shop in the area, the tips and tricks we mention below may be able to help you ensure your kit is safe and arrives the way it should. When you want to travel with your windsurfing board and equipment, the most important thing to consider is that you will need enough padding to keep your gear in good condition. Other things to consider include air travel regulations and the best ways to pack your sails to ensure minimal damage. If you have spent a while building up your equipment and getting comfortable with everything, you’ll want to keep everything in the best possible condition. The tips below are essential to ensure your gear gets packed safely and that you won’t need to replace anything on your travels. How To Travel With Windsurfing Equipment Though you may have carted your windsurfing gear to the beach a few times, traveling with that gear over long distances can be challenging. With this in mind, we discuss a few significant considerations below and tips and tricks for traveling with all your gear. The best way to transport your gear: Since windsurfing requires quite a lot of equipment, some of which can be pretty big even after folding or dismantling, the best way to haul your gear around is by using a trailer. The trailer will help fit all of your equipment and keep it safe. However, you can use a roof rack for some of your gear if you do not have a trailer. Can you fly with windsurfing gear: Though not all airlines allow you to travel with windsurfing equipment, many do if you are willing to pay the additional fees of around $150 to $200. Some airlines require you to send your windsurfing gear as cargo instead of allowing it on your passenger plane, though this may also cost considerably more. How to pack your sails: In windsurfing, the sails are one of the most critical parts of your gear, so packing them the best way is essential. Before you can pack your sail, you must remove your boom and mast, after which you can roll up your sail relatively tightly. Once your sail is rolled up and secured with straps, you can slide it into the bag sleeve first; for more help, watch this video. Packing your mast and boom: Both your boom and mast have individual bags you can buy to house them and keep them safe while traveling. However, if you want to travel with your gear packed in one bag, a quiver bag may be your best option and can house almost all your equipment. The best windsurfing travel bags: If you want to buy some windsurfing gear bags, Unifiber is one of the best brands to consider and has a variety of bags you can use. However, other brands, like Starboard, sell bags for windsurfing gear, which can hold multiple boards and equipment. Can you rent gear at your destination: Though many of us would prefer to use the equipment we are used to and own, plenty of shops are willing to rent gear if you cannot bring yours. With this in mind, some rental shops you can use may even have equipment better suited to the area where you want to windsurf since they likely know the area. Tips to ensure your equipment arrives safely: The best advice for traveling with windsurfing gear is to buy a bag with enough padding or add some extra to be safe. One of the main reasons why equipment gets damaged during travel is because of bumping or moving around. You can use cloth or cardboard as an easy way to pad your gear and ensure it is extra safe. How To Travel With A Windsurf Board Since your board is arguably the most critical part of your windsurfing gear, discussing how to travel with your board is best to do separately. Below we look at some details you should remember the next time you travel with your windsurfing board. The dimensions of your board (air travel): Though many airlines allow you to travel with windsurfing gear and boards, the dimensions of the boards can determine the cost and whether it qualifies to fly with you or has to get sent separately. The general rule is that a windsurfing board should not be larger than 115 inches by 24 inches to qualify for flights.In addition, your windsurfing board should not weigh more than 70 lbs., but if it weighs less than 50 lbs., you may be able to pass it off as a surfboard and not need to pay the fees. How to pack your board: Though there are ways to fit all of your equipment and your board in the same bag, if you want to use air travel, it may be better to split your things into more bags that weigh less. Using extra board bags to store your boom and other equipment may be helpful since some airlines prefer not to take heavier loads and may require splitting it up.With this in mind, airlines are notoriously bad at keeping fragile things in one piece, so it may be best to wrap your board in a few layers of bubble wrap, cardboard, or other padding materials. Windsurfing board bag materials: There are a few different materials manufacturers use to make windsurfing board bags, some of the most common being nylon and neoprene. With this in mind, the best of these two is usually neoprene which is more durable and gives better overall protection for your board.When you buy a board bag, it is best to look at how much padding it comes with. Some bags have minimal padding, while others have rubber or foam … Read more

Ultimate Guide To Stand-Up Paddleboard Racing

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

If you are looking for the ultimate comprehensive guide to stand-up paddleboarding racing – look no further! This article will cover every aspect of SUP racing, like essential gear and excellent training strategies, finding top local races, and the best way to prepare for challenging long-distance events. The ultimate guide to stand-up paddleboard racing includes info on how to get into SUP racing, a list of races in Florida, Molokai, an introduction to PaddleGuru, and prone paddleboard races in California. Excellent kayak races and long-distance race training programs for a competitive edge. So, if you are interested in your local SUP racing scene, looking for the ultimate guide to improving your stand-up paddleboarding skills with a handy pre-race day checklist for long-distance events, including answers to common questions, and ready to up your game like a pro – read on! How To Get Into SUP Racing A significant difference exists between leisurely and SUP racing gear, mainly because the latter is built for speed. You will also need mandatory safety equipment to participate in all official races. Here’s the lowdown on the gear you will need, including basic training techniques to practice if you are new to the thrilling prospect of stand-up paddleboarding races: Essential SUP Racing Gear Race board: even though you could technically race on a regular paddle board, they are not purposely designed for speed or agility. And they will not give you the competitive edge you need. Thus, if you are shopping for some new racing kit, opt for a lightweight, narrow racing board with a water displacement underside that helps you glide through the water at top speeds. A lightweight paddle: a paddle crafted from a durable carbon fiber shaft is your best option. However, ensure that the paddle’s size works with your stroke style and height for optimal performance. Racing apparel: choose quick-drying clothes that will keep you comfortable on hot race days, like board shorts, leggings, and rash guards. Alternatively, consider a dry or wet suit to keep your body temperature consistent. Other essentials include a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. SUP racing accessories: nice to have items include a GPS watch to track your performance when you are training and on the race day, and dry bags or waterproof containers to protect your stuff. SUP Safety Gear Like with all water sports, safety should always be your top priority, so with that said, you will need the following kit to compete in all SUP races: Mandatory PDF: you will need to wear a personal flotation device at any race, so opt for one designed for paddling and gives you lots of freedom to move. Coiled leash: select a brand that feels comfortable to stay connected to your paddleboard during a fall. The leash should also have a quick-release feature needed if you get entangled. Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tips And Tricks Before we delve into the most effective way to prepare for your first race, it’s essential to practice as much as possible. So, paddle in all types of weather and water conditions (even upstream) or train with heavier paddles to prepare you for all eventualities. Most importantly, devise a comprehensive pre-race workout plan with strength, flexibility, speed, and endurance exercises, with built-in recovery days to avoid potential injuries. But remember to take it easy and not push yourself too hard. The Best SUP Training Techniques Like any sport, your paddling technique is essential, so begin your training sessions by focusing on maintaining a proper, well-balanced stance with your feet placed hip distance apart, toes pointing forward, and softly bent knees. To stay centered on the board, engage your core muscles as they are essential to maintain your balance, move your board, and provide stability and the power needed to up your paddling speed. To maximize your strokes and cover greater distances quickly, keep your arms straight and ensure your paddle is always vertical when it first enters the water. Once you have mastered those basic techniques, you are ready to practice drafting, which involves closely paddling behind another paddler to use their slipstream to your advantage. It’s vital to test this drafting technique with a partner as you must figure out your optimal position and distance from your paddling buddy. Finally, you will need to practice buoy turns which are technically one of the most challenging aspects of any race. To master the fine art of buoy turns like a pro, paddle towards the buoy at a fast speed and then practice shifting your body weight toward the board’s interior rail, followed by a succession of quick short paddle strokes for a controlled and seamless turn. SUP Races Near Me: Find The Best Events The best part about SUP races is that they cater to all ability levels. Due to the sport’s increasing popularity, you are spoilt for choice with fun poker runs and night races, including open and flatwater races that are well organized. Although, if you are starting out, look for PaddleGuru beginner-friendly races on inland lakes, as the water and weather conditions tend to be less volatile. Alternatively, check race notifications at your nearest SUP shop, or ask your trainer and fellow paddlers about upcoming races in your area that cater to your current ability level. However, once you’ve entered, ensure you are adequately prepared, especially if it is your first SUP race and nerves tend to kick in. Make a checklist ahead of time as you will need the following: Paddleboard (including your fins) and the paddle. Safety gear like your Personal Floating Device (PFD) and leash. Snacks, including a water bottle, to keep your energy levels up. A hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Your mobile phone and dry bags. Directions to the race event, including your registration fees (if you did not pay online). Most importantly, arrive early at the race day location to attend the mandatory safety meetings, find out about any obstacles on the course, and meet your fellow competitors. Top SUP Races In … Read more

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