Luke Morris

Steph Gilmore; Female Surfing’s GOAT?

June 28, 2023by Luke Morris

Stephanie Gilmore, steph Gilmore, world title.

There are the World Champions–all legendary in their own right; but multiple world title winners etch their names into surfing history and become the greatest surfers to walk the earth. However, two surfing figures rise above even the best are two surfers on completely different echelons. Over 20 years, these two surfers have been overwhelmingly dominant in competition, blowing their competitors out of the water for years at a time. The GOATS. (Greatest of all Time). Kelly Slater and Steph Gilmore. Both need no introduction as the winningest surfers of all time. But today, we focus on Steph–a surfer regarded as the most stylish surfer ever and even quoted by Kelly himself as “Steph surfs the way we should all surf.” A testament to her style and competitive prowess. Combining style, flow, and elegance with a fierce competitive streak, it’s no wonder Steph became an eight times WSL World Champion. Her career speaks for itself, and in this, we take a deeper dive into the life of Steph, from where she grew up, how she started surfing, and her most notable events and achievements. It’s been a long and illustrious career, so we have heaps to get through. Who is Steph Gilmore? Stephanie Gilmore is a professional surfer from the Gold Coast of Australia. She is called the greatest female surfer of all time and has won 8 world titles. She’s an incredibly smooth and stylish surfer with 34 event wins on the Championship Tour. Steph still competes on the World Tour at the time of writing (aged 35) and won her last title in 2022 at the WSL finals at Trestles, California. Now, Steph is known for her style in the surf and her joyous and playful personality on land. Before we look into Steph’s most notable achievements in her career, how did the eight times World Champ start surfing? Steph Gilmore’s Early Years Born on 29 January 1988, Steph grew up in one of the best places to grow up as a surfer— on the Gold Coast, Australia. Home to world-class pointbreaks, perfect weather, and three of the best surfers on the planet, the Goldie is ground zero for Australian professional surfing. In this part of the world, people don’t grow up wanting to be soccer players or movie stars; they dream of being surfers and competing on the WSL Championship Tour. It’s one of the best surf towns in the world, and young Steph would develop and groom her surfing style on the various perfect pointbreaks. At age 9, Gilmore learned to surf by standing on a bodyboard in shore breaks across the Gold Coast beaches. Her family home in Kingscliff, NSW, would be the perfect playground for a budding surfer. Steph’s style and competitive prowess grew and grew from Snapper to D-bah and everywhere else with sick waves on the Goldie. By 17, she was competing in wild card events on the Championship Tour and won the Roxy Pro Gold Coast in 2005–her maiden CT event entry and win. After competing on the WQS, Steph qualified for the Championship Tour in 2007 and successfully won 4 of the eight events that year. A dominating rookie year and one unmatched by any other female surfer. She then went on to win another seven world titles while collecting countless achievements, awards, and accolades. Steph’s Achievements & Awards As you’d expect, the list of Steph’s wins and achievements is extensive, and there are far too many to include on this list., I’ve tried my best to summarize the most notable. Championship Tour World Titles 2007 2008 2009 2010 2012 2014 2018 2022 Out of all Steph’s World Titles, her most impressive campaign came in 2022. After narrowly missing the mid-year cut earlier in the year, Steph earned results to put her in the top 5 women for the year. Since 2021, the WSL has changed its formatting and now decides its world champion through a 1-day event at Trestles, California. Previously, the World Title was decided by whoever had the most points at the end of the year. This meant Steph had a shot, even though she finished 5th. She surfed her way to the final and beat Carissa Moore in the final to secure her 8th World Title. Pretty impressive, huh? Notable Accolades & Awards Surfers Hall of Fame in 2010 Laureus Actionsports Person of the Year 2010 34 total event wins With such success, Steph has racked up many notable sponsors, including Roxy, Nikon, Breitling watches, and Audi. She has also worked with DHD Surfboards for much of her career, a relationship that helped her get the best boards and perform the type of surfing she’s known for. Stephanie Gilmore’s Personal Life Steph isn’t known for sharing much of her private life and keeps much of it under wraps. To our knowledge, she doesn’t have a husband or children. Today and What the Future Holds for Steph No one knows when Steph will retire, and she keeps us guessing, just like Kelly. Outside of surfing, Steph has a passion for music, art, photography, and guitar playing and works with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society as an advisor and ambassador. All I do know is that we keep getting to watch Steph for years to come, whether on the CT or in free surfing movie parts. She is one of the winningest and most stylish surfers ever to live, and it’s a type of surfing we can all take a leaf or two from. Luke MorrisLuke Morris is an avid athlete and the driving force behind Surfhungry, a vibrant online platform dedicated to sharing the joy and passion of surfing and water sports with enthusiasts around the world. With a deep-rooted love for the ocean and a lifelong commitment to riding waves, Luke’s journey as a surfer has inspired him to create a community where like-minded individuals can come together to celebrate their shared passion.

Mick Fanning (and) A SHARK ATTACK on Live TV!

June 28, 2023by Luke Morris

Few surfers have the same level of dedication and commitment to professionalism as Mick Fanning. The three-time surfing world champion is known for his lightning focus in heats, earning him the surfers nickname “White Lightning” and surfing with unrivaled speed, power, and flow. Outside of the water, Mick is known for embodying the true Aussie spirit, work hard and play harder. Popular among his peers, he is one of the most influential surfers of our time. However, things haven’t come easy for Mick Fanning. Facing adversity and more than his fair share of challenges, Mick has experienced things that most of us can’t imagine; good and bad. After losing his brother at age 17, getting attacked by a shark on live television, and losing another brother and a world title in the same year, Mick has etched his name in surfing folklore. With 3 x world titles, and some of the most significant contracts in surfing, Mick is still one of the most successful surfers ever; let’s dive into his life, from where it all started, his major achievements to where Mick is now. The Rise & Rise of Young Mick Fanning Born on 13 June 1981 in Penrith, New South Wales, Mick was born into a single-parent family of four brothers in a public housing commission flat. The brothers were fiercely competitive and played all different sports. But Mick’s passion and focus for surfing wouldn’t happen until the family moved north to the Gold Coast when Mick was 12. The Gold Coast would pave the way for Mick’s early career, surfing Coolangatta’s perfect pointbreaks and punchy beachies and battling out with close friends and fellow aspiring pro surfers Joel Parkinson and Dean Morrison. Young Mick was surfing well, entering local events, winning, and surfing with the speed, power, and flow he is known for today. He was taking the first steps to become a fully-fledged professional surfer. At 17, Mick lost his older brother Sean (an amazing surfer) in a car accident. Afterward, Mick dropped out of high school and went all in and pursuing the pro surfing dream. Mick’s Career & Achievements After winning his first-ever event as a wildcard at the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach in 2001, Mick qualified for the World Championship Tour full-time in 2022. In his first year, he won the Billabong Pro J-Bay and won Rookie of the Year (highest-finishing rookie surfer for that year). After a few ok but nothing special years on the CT, Mick suffered a devastating injury in 2004. While on an Indonesian boat trip, Fanning tore his hamstring off the bone, ruling him out for the rest of that year. A long recovery process followed, and “white lightning” used this opportunity to change his attitude toward his career. Back in the day, the WCT was a full-on party scene, and it wasn’t uncommon for surfers to party all night and paddle out for heats still dusty from the night before. But young Mick was dedicated to adopting a more professional approach. Adopting the approach of British football teams, Mick developed a network of support from coaches, nutritionists, and everyone who could help him succeed on the world tour. He also began to take training and diet more seriously–fully committing to winning a world title campaign. Mick went on to win 3 x world titles. His first in Brazil in 2007, after battling Kelly Slater for the entire year. He then went on to repeat the same feat in 2009 and 2013. His three world titles put Mick into the same category as the greats, surfing legends like Sunny Garcia, Kelly Slater, and Andy Irons. Mick’s Profile & Equipment While known for being the fastest surfer with an unrivaled ability to connect turns with power and flow, Mick stands only 1.78m tall and weighs only 75kg. He has a strong relationship with lifelong shaper DHD (Darren Handly). The relationship allowed the two to work on refined board models to give Fanning an edge in competition. This close surfer/shaper relationship is one of the most notable in surfing (only John Florence and Pyzel have a more intimate working relationship) and has helped Mick succeed. Typically, Fanning rides a 5’11 x 18.75 x 2.28 shortboard. It’s worth noting that although Mick rides DHD almost exclusively, he also uses Tokoro surfboards in Hawaii. The Shark Attack Incident Although Mick Fanning was already one of the best and most famous surfers ever, the famous Shark attack incident 2015 brought Mick mainstream fame, but not for the reasons he expected. During the Championship Tour event final at Jeffreys Bay, South Africa, Mick was surfing against fellow Australian and tour veteran Julian Wilson. Suddenly there was a lull between waves and a huge splash behind Mick. Viewers are blocked from view for a second, and we see Mick swimming on his back toward the shore. After a dramatic 30 seconds, the jetski is there to pick him up, and Mick comes out of the incident relatively unscathed. Mick was attacked by what is thought to be a Great White shark. The incident was captured live on TV worldwide, with millions watching. J-Bay is notorious for sharks, but during a CT final in front of the whole world is unheard of. The broadcast snippet shows how Mick was knocked off his board as a shark got tangled in his leg rope–the only damage to Mick and his board was a snapped leg rope, luckily! Global news outlets reported the event, and after ten days out of the water, Mick returned to the waves at home of the Gold Coast before returning to J-bay for the event the following year and winning! Retirement, Net Worth & Personal Life Mick Fanning retired in 2018. After losing his eldest brother and world title to Gabriel Medina in the same year, Mick called it quits on the World Tour. However, he still surfs incredibly well, appears in many surf media productions, and is frequently spotted gracing the Gold … Read more

What Is An eFoil? Complete Instruction

June 13, 2023by Luke Morris

Have you ever watched someone’s facial expression the first time they see a surfer on an eFoil rise out of the water? You can almost see their mental gearbox scratching and slipping like someone who never learned to drive stick. And, even you probably also think some sorcery is involved. But fear not; no magic rituals were involved, just some magical science. An electric hydrofoil, or “eFoil,” is a board that has an electrically powered propeller attached to a foil or wing below the board. Much like an airplane wing, the foil causes a pressure difference which creates lift, and when the board reaches higher speeds, the board starts to “fly” over water. A few years ago, many people wrote of the eFoil as a novelty that would probably come and go pretty quickly. However, fast forward to today, and eFoils have become increasingly popular, and truthfully, it’s not all that hard to see why. Not only are they extremely fun to ride, but they’re easy to learn and can be used in almost any condition. How Does An eFoil Work? If you enjoy chewing on interesting scientific titbits, the eFoil is bound to satisfy some of that craving. Surprisingly, the idea of the hydrofoil dates back further than 150 years, with the attempts dating back to 1861. Interestingly, that makes the idea older than the first invented airplane, although the airplane and the hydrofoil share the same basic principle. When air moves around an airplane wing, the air at the top is compressed and sped up, compared to the air below, which is obstructed and slows down. The increase in speed at the top of the wing causes the pressure above the wing to drop, while the slower speed at the bottom increases pressure. The higher pressure below pushes toward the lower pressure above, causing the wing to lift. The faster you go, the bigger the pressure gap and the more lift is generated. In simple terms, the idea of a hydrofoil is to take a wing, and slap it onto the bottom of a boat, causing the boat’s hull to essentially fly above the water. And wouldn’t you know it, but the idea worked. In fact, there have even been hydrofoil warships in service in the US Navy. So, someone thought, “If a foil can make a warship fly, then why not a surfboard?” Well, obviously, it can, but with one limitation: speed. For a foil to generate lift, it needs to reach a certain speed, which means that a surfboard with a foil underneath becomes extremely impractical because you can’t precisely paddle it up to speed. This problem was resolved by adding an electric motor and propeller, which is controlled by the surfer with a handheld remote control, like an electric skateboard. The Price Of eFoils: Is It Worth It? Well, the technology of eFoils is impressive, but the same cannot exactly be said about their prices. Unfortunately, it doesn’t matter which angle you look at; eFoiling is a very expensive hobby. Currently, the cheapest board on the market will still set you back around $6 000 plus shipping and tax. However, if you want the most popular brands like Lift and Fliteboard, be ready to spend upwards of $12 000. Ouch. This steep price does pose the obvious question of whether it’s worth it, and the answer should be equally obvious; maybe. If you live a stone’s throw away from the sea or a lake and have been saving up to get a water toy like an eFoil or a jetski, it’s absolutely worth it. Unlike a jetski, eFoils don’t become monotonous to ride. If you find yourself lacking a challenge, you can swap out the wing for a more difficult one that can allow you to do some epic tricks. Or you can learn to ride waves. But, if you’re considering an eFoil to use on your once-a-year holiday, it’s better to rent one than to spend all that cash for something that will sit in storage. Advantages And Challenges Of eFoils There are several upsides to an eFoil. Firstly, they are reasonably easy to get the hang of, especially if you are an experienced surfer. In fact, even if you have zero surfing experience, they’re still reasonably forgiving. Sure, you will fall off in the beginning. A lot. But after an hour or so, you should start finding your feet. They also have the advantage of handling nearly all conditions, from a mirror-smooth lake to curling surf. You also aren’t limited by your fitness, so you can even take a nice long cruise if the weather allows. Furthermore, they are super-fast, with some models easily reaching speeds upward of 30 miles per hour. However, it’s not all smooth sailing for eFoils. Their drawbacks include being battery-powered, which means that your ride time is limited to the size of the battery. That varies from about 40 minutes to a couple of hours, but there isn’t one that’ll last you the whole day. And if it dies on you when you’re far from home, you better be fit for the paddle back. Speaking of that battery, while it is maritime-grade, the ocean will eventually corrode just about everything. So, you must prepare for regular, thorough cleaning and maintenance if you want your board to last. Another drawback is the very thing that makes it awesome, which is the foil. Because it sits quite deep in the water, you can easily hit a rock or sandbank, which can cost quite a bit in repairs. Finally, eFoils do have an inherent safety risk. The foils and props are thin and sharp, and people have had pretty severe cuts from them. Some Tips For Riding An eFoil: Beginner To Advanced To take a deep dive into riding an eFoil would be a whole topic on its own, but here are … Read more

What KiteSurf Size Do I Need? | Complete Guide

June 13, 2023by Luke Morris

What KiteSurf Size Do I Need | A complete Guide

Knowing the right kite size for your kitesurfing style is like catching the perfect wave—it’s the key to an epic ride. You’ve probably wondered how to make that choice and yoke the wind’s power to conquer the surf. While it may seem complex, the truth is that it’s not that difficult to find out. That said, what is the right kite size for you that will make all the difference to your experience? The right kite size depends on factors like wind speed, rider weight, board size, skill level, and personal style. The wind speed determines the power and lift you’ll experience, while your weight, board, and skill level dictate the control and maneuverability you need. Kite size matters. A lot. It can make or break your kitesurfing session. Fortunately, this guide covers how to pick the right kite size for your style and condition – like having your own personal surf guru. Read on as we explain the different kitesurfing styles, such as freeride, freestyle, wave riding, foil boarding, the general kite size ranges and how to pick them, and more! Size Matters: Decoding The Dynamics Of Kite Size In Kitesurfing Before we ride the waves of different kitesurfing styles, let’s take a moment to understand the crucial role kite size plays in shaping our epic kitesurfing experience. Kite size refers to the size of the kite’s canopy, measured in square meters (m²). The bigger the kite, the more power and lift it brings to your ride. Additionally, wind speed, measured in knots (kt), also plays a vital role. Strong winds mean more power and lift, while weak winds mean less. Now, imagine yourself on the water and gliding in style. Your rider weight, the board size, skill level, and personal style—all these factors join forces to determine the kite size that suits you best. And if there’s one thing that physics taught us, you’ll need a larger kite for that extra oomph if you’re a heavier rider. When it comes to boards, smaller boards want smaller kites, which need less power and lift to sail smoothly. And when it comes to kites, beginners should look for stability and forgiveness, requiring larger kites, while freestylers chase speed and maneuverability, opting for smaller kites. Now let’s talk impact! Kite size dictates the power, speed, maneuverability, and stability you’ll experience on the water. So, how do different kite sizes match different conditions and preferences? Here are some things to keep in mind: For those light wind days (8-15 kt), a large kite (12-20 m²) will generate the power and lift needed to get you soaring. When moderate winds (16-25 kt) rise, a medium-sized kite (8-12 m²) strikes the perfect balance for a unique style. As the wind strengthens (26-35 kt), a smaller kite (5-8 m²) allows you to tame the elements without getting overpowered. In extreme winds (36+ kt), it’s time to prioritize safety and consider staying on land. Or, if you dare, opt for a very small kite (3-5 m²) to really defy gravity (best for only professionals in the sport!). Remember, these are merely rough estimates, not carved in stone. The ideal kite size for you lies within your area of personal preference and environmental factors. To find your perfect match, take various kite sizes for a spin before committing to only one size. And always stay adaptable to changing conditions, adjusting your kite size accordingly. How To Choose The Right Kite Size For Your Kitesurfing Style Now that you know how kite-size works and why it matters, let’s see how you can choose the right kite size for your kitesurfing style. As you may already know, kitesurfing is not a one-size-fits-all sport. Here, we’ll guide you in selecting the ideal kite size for your kitesurfing style. Each style has unique requirements, and we’ll cover the main ones: freeride, freestyle, wave riding, and foil boarding. We’ll explain the characteristics of each style and how they influence your choice of kite size. Plus, we’ll provide handy formulas to estimate the correct size based on your weight and wind speed. Note: Remember to check wind conditions and manufacturer recommendations. Freeride Style: Cruise With Confidence Freeride is the go-to style for versatility and fun. It offers smooth rides and basic tricks and is ideal for beginners and intermediate riders. Freeride kites are user-friendly, stable, and responsive, typically bow or delta shaped. To find your ideal kite size, consider your weight and wind speed. Use this formula to get a general idea of the size you would need to go: Weight (kg) divided by wind (knots) x 2.2 = Recommended kite size. So, for example, a weight of 70 kg (154 lbs) with 20 knots (24 mph) of wind suggests an 8m (26ft) kite. Freestyle Style: Push Your Limits Freestyle is for thrill-seekers who want to perform complex tricks in the air. These kites are designed mainly for pros and are powerful, fast, and agile, often C-shaped or hybrid-shaped. To choose your kite size, factor in your weight and wind speed. A great example to help you figure out the ideal size for you is: Weight (kg divided by wind (knots) x 1.8 = Recommended kite size. For example, a weight of 70 kg (154 lbs) with 20 knots (24 mph) of wind suggests a 6m (19 ft) or 7m (22 ft) kite. Wave Riding Style: Surf With Bravura Wave riding combines kitesurfing with the thrill of surfing waves. Fit for intermediate and advanced riders, wave-riding kites offer stability and drift-friendliness. They are usually delta or hybrid shaped. When selecting your kite size, consider your weight and wind speed. To get a good idea, use this formula: Weight (kg) divided by wind (knots) x 2 = Recommended kite size. For instance, a 70 kg (154 lbs) weight with 20 knots (24 mph) of wind suggests a 7m (22 ft) or 8m (26 ft) kite. Foilboarding Style: Glide Above The Water Foil boarding brings a whole new level … Read more

5 Top Q&A | Electric Longboard Skateboards

June 13, 2023by Luke Morris

Over the last decade, electric longboard skateboards have become significantly popular globally as they are an incredibly efficient, fun and safe mode of transport. For generations, traditional skateboards have been a form of transportation for millions of people; however, electric skateboards combine the usual thrill with the unmatched convenience of electric power. Electric longboard skateboards are like traditional skateboards, yet they come standard with an electric motor. The motor functions as an effective propulsion system, seamlessly integrated into the underside of the board or its rear wheels. The electric motor is controlled by a handheld remote. It is worth noting that numerous high-quality, dependable, and desirable electric skateboard models are currently available. While premium electric skateboards are expensive, they are worthy of their price tag, induced by advanced safety features, longer ranges on a single charge and a higher top speed. Have you considered buying an electric longboard skateboard but want to know more? Keep reading for the Top 5 things you need to know about electric longboard skateboards. 1. What Is an Electric Longboard Skateboard? While numerous electric longboard skateboards are currently available, most are considered traditional skateboards with an additional electric propulsion motor. These skateboards are similar to usual longboard skateboards. However, an electric motor connected to the device’s rear wheels or underside enables users to travel several miles without inserting any arduous physical effort. Electric longboard skateboard owners commonly control their devices with a handheld remote or a smartphone application. This can be used to decelerate or accelerate, depending on the situation. Some higher-end electric skateboard models use a regenerative braking system, allowing users to travel substantially further on a single charge. Despite most electric longboards being limited to shorter or medium distances, they are an effective and exciting alternative to traditional modes of transport such as regular skateboards, bicycles, scooters, or walking. The longer wheelbase associated with electric longboard skateboards is beneficial. This significantly enhances the ride’s smoothness, stability, and safety compared to archaic ones. Purchasing an electric longboard skateboard is a decision you will never regret. It will allow you to effortlessly travel around your local area completely free of charge. 2. How Do Electric Longboard Skateboards Function? Electric longboard skateboards work by efficiently combining a traditional longboard skateboard design with modern battery and electric motor systems. The best ones are designed with a narrow deck comprising lightweight composite materials. A high-quality deck is essential as it provides the rider unparalleled stability, especially at higher speeds, with the accompanying electric motor providing the required forward power. Moreover, the remote controller that comes with the skateboard is the most critical aspect of the entire experience as it manipulates the battery and onboard motor to accelerate, brake, or reverse. Suppose your electric longboard skateboard comes standard with LED lights. In that case, you have purchased one of the better models. Lights are directly responsible for your safety while riding due to their illumination characteristics. In addition, the LED lights indicate how much of the battery is currently available, the indicated temperature, and other safety features. 3. What are the Main Benefits of Using an Electric Longboard Skateboard? There are countless benefits directly associated with modern electric skateboards, especially when considering how much more advantageous they are compared to traditional longboard skateboards. While there are numerous benefits of utilizing an electric longboard skateboard, these are the top seven unseen aspects worth noting: Speed and range. Most modern electric longboard skateboards can reach speeds of between 10 and 20 miles per hour, with an accompanying range of between 15 and 25 miles on a single charge. Convenience. Premium electric longboard skateboards do not require any additional physical effort, meaning users can ride forwards or backward without taking their feet off the deck. Inclines and hills. With the associated power and torque, modern electric longboards. Skateboards can traverse most hills and inclines without necessitating significant physical user effort. Customization. The best electric longboard skateboards can be highly customized, meaning you can adjust crucial settings until they suit your riding style, requirements, and skill level. Health and fitness. Despite electric longboard skateboards requiring almost no additional physical exertion, users must maintain their stability, balance, and direction, indirectly benefiting their overall health and fitness. Fun, enjoyment, and pleasure. Any electric longboard user will agree that riding modern equipment induces unparalleled levels of enjoyment, fun, and pleasure, especially when used as a recreational device. Improve your surfing and snowboarding skills, without having to hit the waves or the slopes! It is important to remember that while these skateboards are convenient and thrilling, they can be risky if utilized incorrectly or recklessly. 4. Which Factors to Consider Before Buying an Electric Longboard Skateboard? You must comprehensively account for numerous considerations before purchasing a pricy electric longboard skateboard. While there are too many considerations to analyze entirely, here are the most critical ones: Fundamental purpose. Knowing what you intend to use for the electric longboard is vital. By knowing your specific purpose for purchasing a pricy device, the selection process will be streamlined and efficient. The electric longboard skateboards range. Before purchasing your device, check its range, battery life, and power, directly influencing its overall convenience, practicality, and usability. Power and speed. Consider the electric longboard’s power and speed. It must be powerful and fast enough to account for your intended usage effortlessly. Your current budget and the electric longboard’s price. Overall safety. Long-term reputation and online reviews. Build quality. It is vital to check the electric longboard skateboard’s overall build quality and accompanying deck, as this will directly influence its longevity, usefulness, and practicality. Suspension and wheels. Larger wheels and suspensions usually mean the device’s ride quality will be outstanding. Braking and control. How fast your device can brake and how well it can be controlled by a user of your current skill level is critical as it will impact your general safety and the security of those around you. It is important to consider the abovementioned factors fully as they will positively … Read more

Is Skateboarding Good For Surf Training?

June 11, 2023by Luke Morris

Skateboards were invented long ago by surfers who wanted to surf the sidewalks when not catching waves. Sure, they aren’t the same sport, given the difference in the surfaces ridden, but they share similar techniques. So, many surfers skate for fun and to practice skills in a more controlled environment. Skateboarding is a good tool for surf training, provided it is not the only form of practice. You can practice valuable techniques while working on your fitness, balance, concentration, and strength. However, skateboarding will not teach you how to paddle or understand the fickle nature of waves. In any training regime, knowing what you want to improve is good. You can enhance specific surfing techniques like balance, footwork, cutting, and board control with intentional practice on a skateboard. Doing so won’t make you a pro surfer, but the board time and muscle memory will undoubtedly help. Benefits Of Skateboarding For Surf Training Skateboarding is beneficial for surf training if you have already got some experience on a surfboard. You can use your skateboard to practice critical skills used in surfing, especially if you live somewhere where good waves are absent or inconsistent. Discussed next are some benefits of skateboarding for surf training: Skateboarding Improves Balance And Coordination The balance required in skateboarding is much like the unique type of balance needed in surfing. For instance, you can practice the following balance and coordination skills as part of your cross-training and fitness regime. Carving and turning are basic maneuvers used in skateboarding and surfing. Practicing leaning and adjusting your balance on a skateboard will help improve your bottom turn and carving skills in the waves. Stopping and stalling on a skateboard helps you get barreled in surfing or return to a wave’s energy zone. Slowing down on either of these boards requires you to shift your body weight to the tail without losing your balance or falling off. Helps Build Core Strength And Stability Skateboarding helps to maintain your core strength and stability when you’re not surfing, working, or sleeping. Such stability and core strength are vital for functional fitness and executing those advanced maneuvers on a surfboard later. Skateboarding Enhances Board Control And Foot Placement Board control and the correct foot placement are imperative for riding a wave to the max. Unfortunately, since we don’t all have access to consistent, excellent waves to practice these skills, we can do a bit of training on a skateboard. As mentioned, you slow a skateboard or surfboard by shifting your body weight to your back foot. However, you can also practice board control and foot placement by learning a critical maneuver on your skateboard: the ollie. If you know how to ollie on a skateboard, it opens you up to the world of aerial moves in surfing. All that fancy footwork on your skateboard creates muscle memory and sets you up for a splendid time of planned acrobatics in the surf. Skateboarding Offers A Similar Sensation To Surfing Skateboarding can offer a similar sensation to surfing, depending on what, where, and how you’re riding. For instance, you’ll find practicing in a skate park is more like surfing than cruising down a straight, flat road. So how else does skateboarding benefit surfing? The two board sports share a few fundamental elements, allowing you to practice despite the surf conditions. When used intentionally, skateboarding can benefit your surfing by helping you: Improve your flow, Visualize new lines, Experiment with new carves, Work on your timing and focus, and Create your suave surfing style. Drawbacks Of Skateboarding For Surf Training As helpful as skateboarding can be for surf training, it can negate some of your progression if not done right. But how so? Skateboarding And Surfing Use Different Movement Patterns Skateboarding and surfing share a few similarities, but many movement patterns differ. For instance, a large portion of surfing requires you to lie on your belly and confidently paddle while you wait for a wave, and skateboarding doesn’t teach you how to do that. Skateboarding Lacks The Resistance And Instability Of Water When skateboarding, you must contend with the certainties of gravity and solid ground. But the ocean is a different animal altogether. It’s moody and constantly changing, and no amount of skating can prepare you for a session in deep water. For example, you can only learn to survive being churned underwater by spending quality time in the waves – either with or without a board. Skateboarding Can Lead To Bad Habits On The Board You need to balance out your skating with surfing time to avoid reinforcing habits that aren’t ideal for surfing. If you’ve developed bad habits from skating, you must unlearn them to progress with your surfing. You can do this by retraining in the surf or practicing the right skill on your skateboard. How To Incorporate Skateboarding Into Your Surf Training Skateboarding can be helpful for surf training if you don’t rely on it as your sole training method. Here are some great tips to help you to incorporate skateboarding into your surf training: Use skateboarding as a complementary exercise to surfing. Not only is it like surfing in many respects, but you’re also getting valuable time on a board that helps you focus on mastering specific techniques. Additionally, you can use skateboarding as a cross-training or warm-up activity before hitting the surf. Focus on specific movements and techniques relevant to surfing. Skateboarding allows you to repeatedly practice appropriate surfing movements and techniques even when the surf isn’t great. Find a local skate park or DIY spot to practice. A skate park offers more opportunities to practice surf-related techniques than a flat surface would. For instance, you can practice kick turns, work on your floaters by doing 50-50s, practice your airs, slides, and carving on big ramps, and get valuable pocket practice. In the absence of a skate park in your area, you can make a DIY setup with a few ramps and ledges. Practice using a surf skate. If … Read more

Best Surf Hostels: Plan Your Next Trip

June 8, 2023by Luke Morris

Ahhh, the surf hostel. A budget surf traveler’s best mate, Surf hostels have made surf travel all the more possible, and if your bank balance is less than favorable, sharing a room at a hostel means you can still score waves on a shoestring. And don’t stress, “Hostel” no longer means a flea-ridden beach shack for US$2 a night (I mean, they still exist if you’re going feral), but just by sharing a room, you can tap into wifi, on-site restaurants, co-workspaces, meet wicked people, have a kitchen, and all the creature comforts of home, a stone’s throw from the world’s best surf spots. Pretty sick, right? In this article, we dive into the world of surf hostels! We’ll discover how to choose the right hostel that aligns with your ability, wave preferences, and vibe. We’ll also check out the world’s best surf hostels and establish the difference between surf camps and surf hostels, so after reading this, you’ll be clued up on where to stay for your next budget surf trip. We have a lot to get through, so let’s dive in! How to Choose the Right Surf Hostel (& What to Consider)? When choosing the best surf hostel, your needs vs. what the hostel has to offer determines what you would consider the best. One hostel could be perfect for one person, while not so good for another, so it depends on what you’re looking for. Factors include the waves you like to surf, the vibe you chase and where the hostel is, and the non-surfing activities you want to do. For me, the most critical surf hostel factors include the following: Location The location is huge, as you want to put yourself close to the waves. Duh! But you also want to put yourself close to the waves you want to surf is vital. For instance, let’s say you’re a beginner staying at a hostel close to the perfect reef break at Uluwatu, a great spot for advanced surfers but not fantastic for beginners. Stay somewhere you can easily access the waves suited to your preferences and ability. This might be making sure the hostel can offer transportation or choosing a location where you can walk to different waves. Cost Cost is a significant factor when deciding on a hostel. Surf hostels are budget surf travelers’ best friends, making surf trips possible. So look for a hostel in your price range. Look for a balance of location and amenities for the least amount of money per night. This is the magic recipe for choosing an affordable surf hostel. While you don’t always want to stay in a dilapidated beach shack for $US5 per night, plenty of super comfortable, modern hostels now have rooms for $15 or less! Amenities Amenities are all the things, no matter how big or small, that make your trip easier. This could be an on-site restaurant, co-workspace, pool, common area, and kitchen. Always look at the amenities and envision how they will make things easier on your trip. The more added niceties, the better. When choosing a hostel, I like to choose dorms with private curtains (booths) to add privacy! Although this may seem trivial, it makes a big difference. Vibe The vibe is also essential when it comes to choosing a surf hostel. What kind of vibe do you want? Do you want a lively, bustling party vibe? Or do you want somewhere more tranquil? A dedicated co-working digital nomad hostel? Or just a simple surf and nothing else type vibe? Whatever vibe you’re looking for, your hostel must align with your personality, so you surround yourself with like-minded people–a massive contributor to surf trip enjoyment. Best Surf Hostels from Around the World The Farm (Canggu, Bali) Boasting 110 beads, dorms, privates, 2 x pools, and common areas, all in the heart of Canggu. The Farm Hostel in Bali is among the world’s best surf hostels. Whether you’re looking to surf, party, work or combine all three, The Farm is a wicked place to do it. Canggu is a thriving backpacker hub, with many choosing it as a base to live, work and surf in Bali. While the town is somewhat chaotic, the waves are super fun for all abilities; from the beginner-friendly rollers at Old Mans to the punchy peaks of Echo Beach, Canggu has it all. The Farm puts your mere minutes from all the best breaks. Dreamsea (Tamarindo, Costa Rica) Tamarindo, in Costa Rica’s Northwest, is one of the best beginner surf towns in the world. A relaxed town with a beginner-friendly bay in the tropics; what more could you ask for? Dreamsea combines surf, yoga, and glamping for an authentic “Pura Vida” surf experience. Comprised of villas, and glamping tents, Dreamsea is a self-sustained, eco-friendly surf hostel nestled in the jungle. Selina Boavista (Ericeira, Portugal) Ericeira is one of Portugal’s (and the world’s) best surf towns. With dozens of breaks for all abilities, a thriving digital nomad surf town, and warm(ish) weather year-round, it’s a hard place to beat—the perfect combo of waves and quality of living. Oh, and it’s pretty affordable. Ericeira is a globally renowned chain of hostels perfect for surfers and digital nomads. Selina Boavista Ericeira is a small property with everything you need to surf and stay in Ericeira. Small workspace, call booth, surf school, restaurant, and kitchen combine all the amenities you could ever want from one of the best surf hostels. The surf school, as part of Selina, will take you to the best beginner breaks, while just a short drive away, you’ll have access to the long walls of Ribeira D’llhas and the freight train tubes of Coxos. Hangtime Hostel (Weligama, Sri Lanka) Weligama, in Sri Lanka’s Southwest, is one of the best beginner surf spots on earth. Hangtime Hostel puts you right there, amongst it! With dorms and privates, this beachfront property also offers board hire/lessons and yoga classes to limber up between shred sessions. Close by, you have … Read more

BEST Surf Towns IN THE USA: Guide for Surfers

June 7, 2023by Luke Morris

More than simply being a sport, surfing has become a lifestyle for many who love being on the water. With this in mind, many surfers enjoy visiting different surf towns to integrate with the culture while indulging in their love of waves. However, if you are looking to plan your next trip or, even better, relocate to a surf town, you’ll want to know a bit about the best surf towns in the US. Some of the best surf towns in the US in terms of waves, surf culture, and beach quality include Huntington Beach, Santa Cruz, and Haleʻiwa. However, there are also other towns to consider for different reasons, such as Port Isabel and Wilmington, both great cities for various reasons. Though there are many different surf towns in the US, not all are equal, and each has unique features that make it great. Below we discuss the best of the best and examine what makes each choice unique. In addition, we also give you some information on some of the best surf towns to relocate to, some of the cheaper surf towns to go to, and some of the best surf towns in different areas of the US. What Are the Best Surf Towns in the USA? When looking for the best surf towns in the US, the key considerations include the culture, beach quality, and wave consistency. With this in mind, we have listed some of the best surf towns in the USA below, including the details mentioned above. 1. Huntington Beach, California Huntington Beach, or Surf City as some know it, is a seaside city in Southern California. With a name like Surf City, it is only natural that this city is known for its excellent climate, gorgeous beaches, and the surfing culture you can find here. Beach Quality – With a beach maintenance group that cleans the beach and keeps everything in tip-top shape year-round, the quality of the beach itself is excellent. The ocean water is also safe to swim and surf in, meeting the health standards for bacteria levels. Wave Consistency – The consistency of the waves at the Huntington surf spots can differ significantly, but waves are relatively constant, even if they aren’t always rideable. With the most consistent waves, January is the best time to surf here. Surf Culture – Huntington Beach is rich with surf culture and history, with some of its history dating back to 1914 when George Freeth surfed at the pier dedication. With this in mind, though it took a few years for everyone to catch on, Huntington Beach is now filled with surf shops and even has a surfing museum you can visit. 2. Santa Cruz, California Known for some of its fantastic surf spots, like Steamer Lane, Santa Cruz is high on the list of best surf towns in the US. With numerous surf spots in and around Santa Cruz, surf schools for those who want to learn, beautiful views of the ocean, local wineries, and strong surf culture, Santa Cruz is perfect for any surfer, especially those who enjoy wine. Beach Quality – Though the Santa Cruz beaches are clean for the most part, the ocean water quality does differ frequently. It is best to check the latest tests for water quality before you get your surfboard ready. Wave Consistency – If you want the best chance to catch some waves on the water in Santa Cruz, it is best to visit in July. During this time of the year and most of the summer, more consistent and clean waves allow you to ride for longer. Surf Culture – Also boasting a surf museum, Santa Cruz has been a go-to surfing area since the 1880s when it got reported that three Hawaiian princes introduced the locals to surfing. Since then, Santa Cruz has been home to Jack O’Neill, who introduced the wetsuit, gathered tons of exciting surfing-related items like a shark-bitten surfboard, and gained popularity among surfers. 3. Haleiwa, Hawaii One of the most well-known surf towns, Haleiwa in Hawaii is a hub of activity, culture, food, and surfing. This surf town, which now plays the role of the area’s social, cultural, and artistic hub, is rich with history and surrounded by excellent surf spots. With many eateries in old buildings, surf shops, art galleries, and boutiques, this is a go-to area for any surfer. Beach Quality – With many ongoing projects to clean the beaches of Hawaii, it is safe to say that, for the most part, the beaches themselves get kept in good condition. However, before going to Haleiwa, it is best to see if there have been any recent storms or floods since these make the water brown sometimes. Though brown water is mainly due to rain, most advise surfers to steer clear. Wave Consistency – If you want the best surfing time at Haleiwa, the best time to visit is in January, when proper surfable and consistent waves are more likely. During January, these waves occur around 38% of the time. Surf Culture – Winter in this area is full of the hustle and bustle when it comes to surfing, with people coming from all around the world to experience the fantastic waves and rich culture. Making friends with locals is also an excellent way to learn in-depth information about where to go and what you can do if the scenery and historic buildings are not enough to satiate the culture-hungry. Cheapest Surf Towns to Live in the USA If you are a budget-conscious surfer, you may need more details to determine whether you can afford the area. Below you will find some of the cheapest surf towns in the US with important information such as the median home cost and cost of living index rating. 1. Port Isabel, Texas Based on the most recent numbers, Port Isabel in Texas is one of the most affordable surf towns in the US. Despite being one of the cheaper surf towns … Read more

The WSL: An Overview of The World Surf League

June 5, 2023by Luke Morris

Here in 2023, we have countless ways to consume amazing surf content, from YouTube to Stab Cinema and tapping into your favorite surf movies! Heck, even scrolling through Instagram can feel like a moving version of your favorite surf mag. There are clips and content everywhere. But watching surf competitions can be painstaking. With long lulls, lackluster waves, and questionable wave scoring, it’s no wonder surfing hasn’t become the mainstream sport everyone can relate to. However, The WSL is changing this, working hard to create a platform where competitive surfing is not only watchable but exciting and engaging. The WSL’s mission is putting (as their slogan goes) the world’s best surfers in the world’s best waves. While several surf tours comprise the WSL, the overriding focus is on the Championship Tour and respective Challenger Series, where the world’s top high-performance surfers battle it out around the globe. In this post, we take a closer look at how this all works, so whether you’re new to competitive surfing or have lost track of how it works, take a seat, grab a cuppa, and let’s dive into the world of the WSL. What is The WSL? The WSL is the largest governing body for international surfing. The largest platform for professional surfers to make or launch a career as a professional surfer. Comprised of multiple tours across various surfing disciplines, the WSL is a company that broadcasts and shows surfing to the world. With events all around the globe in epic waves, the free webcasts are a spectacle, and the WSL does an amazing service to surfing. History of The WSL Back in the day, competitive surf events ran much in the same way they do today, only they were held in sub-par conditions. These early days of competitive surfing were far from what we see today. The events were held in population centers (where sponsors could push their logos in front of as many beachgoing eyeballs as possible), but waves would often be crappy. Were’ talking Virginia Beach, Huntington Beach–1-2ft slop. There were no webcasts, no airs, and sponsorship deals were minimum, if not non-existent. Eventually, surfers came together to end what was, at best, an average tour of average beach breaks. Icons like Rabbit Bartholomew from Australia were at the forefront of pushing the tour into what later became the Dream Tour, stating, “It should be the world’s best surfers, in the world’s best waves” after a series of meetings, the surfers, and the ASP came together to make a tour that was exactly that, with the addition of world-class surf spots such as Cloudbreak, Pipeline, G-Land, Snapper Rocks, the tour was transformed into the Dream Tour. These incredible waves set the foundation for some of the most iconic moments in surf history, and the best surfing the world had ever seen. As surfing progressed, world tour surfers now had a platform to showcase what they could do in real waves. Through the early noughties, professional surfing entered its heyday; sponsorship deals were big, the waves pumped, and the most influential surfers of our time battled in epic rivalries! We’re talking Andy Vs. Kelly Slater, The Hobgood twins, Mick, Parko…Ahhh, what a time! Today, the ASP has rebranded as the WSL into a multi-million dollar company, but before we dive into the tours and WSL schedule, how does the WSL work now for surfers? How Does The WSL Work? Tours The WSL comprises multiple tours. The Championship Tour (where the best surfers on earth compete for the world title), the Big Wave World Tour (where the best big wave riders compete in big wave venues when a swell is called on), the world longboard tour, and the junior series. By far, the biggest aspect of the WSL arsenal is the WCT, the championship tour, and qualifying for it is a big deal! The Tour Schedule The Championship Tour schedule is held at eleven different events in various locations. Over the years, locations have chopped and changed around due to rights issues, waves, contracts, and not mention Covid, but now as we move through 2023, the WSL looks to solidify a consistent tour schedule. Event 1: Pipeline, North Shore, Hawaii Event 2: Sunset Beach, North Shore, Hawaii Event 3: Supertubos, Peniche, Portugal Event 4: Bells Beach, Torquay, Australia *Event 5: Main Break, Margaret River, Western Australia Event 6: Surf Ranch, Leemore, California Event 7: Punta Roca, La Libertad, El Salvador Event 8: Saquarema, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil Event 9: Jeffery’s Bay, South Africa Event 10: Teahupoo, Tahiti, French Polynesia Event 11 – The WSL Final (Top 5 Only) After event 6, the tour gets cut in half after the WSL announced the return of the mid-year cut, where the lowest-ranking surfers at this stage in the season fall off the tour and are relegated to the challenger series. This leaves a condensed tour for the reaming half of the season, with only the top-performing surfs competing for the final five places. Then, the top 5 surfers do battle at Lower Trestles, a perfect a-frame in Southern California and a platform where high-performance surfing can go down! In the beys of the WSL. this is the venue to decide the World Title. This decision was met with much criticism in the surfing world as previously, the world title showdown would traditionally happen at Pipeline, in heavy barreling waves. Each contest is held over a waiting period, which ensures good waves for each event. If you’ve ever competed at a local boardriders event, you’ll know firsthand that scheduling a surf contest on a random weekend doesn’t always give you good surf. The WSl typically has 10-day event windows and only runs a competition on the best days. Ranking Regardless of the tour, surfers are allocated points based on how they finish in a competition. Then surfers are ranked in the leaderboard system, and whoever has the most points finishes at the top and either … Read more

Surfing in The Olympics: A History & Overview

June 5, 2023by Luke Morris

It’s always been this way, Surfing. A sport that walks the line between sport and lifestyle, a fringe sport, or an outcast of sorts–a counter-culture. But nowadays, with multiple ways to make money through surfing, most notably through competition, surfing certainly is a sport. With big endorsement deals and solid prize money for Championship Tour athletes, surfing at the top level can be a 6-figure career. Not bad for riding waves and traveling the world, huh? However, surfing competitively is no easy feat, and it’s no coincidence the WQS (now Challenger Series) is known as the Q grind. It’s tough, and making it to the Championship Tour takes years of training, traveling, losing clutch heats, and heartbreak, not to mention tens of thousands of dollars. In recent years there’s been another dangling carrot for competitive surfers; a carrot that promises an international stage, good(ish) waves, and the chance to represent their country doing what they love at one of the biggest sporting events in the world, the Olympic Games. For the first time ever, surfing was added to the Olympics in the Tokyo 2022 games. While the waves were expectantly lackluster, Olympic surfing was an interesting watch for surf fans and the general public alike. The inaugural event took place in Chiba, just outside of Tokyo, at Shidashita Beach, whereas surfing’s next Olympic appearance will be at the 2024 France Olympics at Teahupoo, Tahiti (A french overseas territory). In this article, we dive into everything you need to know about surfing in the Olympics. We’ll cover how Olympic surfing works, how surfing became an Olympic sport, and how the qualification process works. We have a lot to get through, so let’s jump in. How Does Olympic Surfing Work? Olympic surfing works much in the same way as your favorite WSL Championship Tour event. In Man-on-man heats, the surfer’s best two waves make up an overall score out of 20, and surfers have 40 minutes to find their best rides and progress. The event is knockout and will run from Round 3 through Round 2, Quarterfinals, Semi-Finals, and eventually, a man-on-man finale where the remaining two battle it out for a coveted surfing Olympic medal. Now we know the rough competition format, let’s take a closer look at how Olympic surfing works. Contest Format The Olympic surfing contest format includes 48 surfers, 24 men and 24 women. 2 x surfers from each (NOC-country) will represent their respective nation and compete for countries that have qualified (through a separate ISA event. Confused yet? Same. Through the ISA world games, surfers can qualify their country for the games, regardless of individual performance. (Nation’s must also qualify). Scoring So how is surfing scored in the games? Olympic surfing will be scored with the traditional surf contest criteria, with waves marked on a combination of: Speed, power, and flow Commitment and degree of difficulty Combination of major maneuvers Variety All WSL contests are judged based on these criteria, and so too will the Olympics. However, emphasis is put on different aspects of the criteria depending on the location and conditions. Whatever the criteria emphasis, surfers will be scored on their best two waves within a 40-minute man-on-man heat, and the closer their total to twenty, the better their chances of advancing. Conditions In the Tokyo Olympics, the contest was held at Shidshita Beach. An average stretch of beach at the best of times, let alone in mid-summer when the games were held. Waves were 1-2ft, onshore mush burgers for most of the contest before concluding on finals day in 4ft stormy but still extremely mushy conditions. (It was basically like an oversized weak Huntington). Due to the conditions, waves were scored on moves like airs, speed, power, and flow. However, things will ramp up in France 2024 with the event being held at the famous Teahupoo. Teahupoo is a perfect left barrel, hollow and heavy, and should conditions provide, waves will be scored on barrel riding as it’s traditionally a barrel-only type wave. (Fingers crossed for good waves). While epic surf isn’t guaranteed whenever a set date is in place, the planned event dates (27-30 July) are slap bang in the middle of Chope’s swell window. Most Recent Olympic Surfing Results The first-ever Olympic surfing event occurred in 2021 as part of the Tokyo 2020 (postponed initially due to Covid) at Shidashita Beach. Although the conditions and subsequent waves were 1-2ft slop at best, the event was intriguing to watch. I thought the broadcasting was excellent, with a commentary team of both surfers and non-surfers. This allowed non-surfing viewers to learn and understand what makes a well-surfed wave, and for surfers, it was great to listen to people who actually knew what they were talking about. It was also epic to see top pros mix it up with lesser-known names representing their country! There were some interesting battles, with Gabriel Media being knocked out by Japanese surfer Kanoa Igarashi, who went on to lose in the final against another Brazilian surfing superstar, Italo Ferreira–who took out surfing’s first-ever gold medal match. These were surfing’s medal placings in Tokyo 2020: 1st – Italo Ferrieria (Brazil) 2nd – Kanoa Igarashi (Japan) 3rd – Owen Wright (Australia) While the inaugural event was met with skepticism in the surfing world for me, I thoroughly enjoyed watching the surfers I know and love from the WSL compete on such a huge world stage. I regard any opportunity to see the best guys and gals surf (whatever the cosnitons) as a positive. Qualifying for the Olympics (Process & Requirements) Qualifying for the Olympics is a little complex, but I’ll try and explain it as simply as possible. In Short, the highest-ranked surfers from the WSL and ISA games events will qualify. To determine a fair way of deciding who competes, the WSL, ISA, and Olympic Committee comprised a hierarchical event structure. The Championship Tour The world’s best surfers competing on the WSL CT, will have first … Read more

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