How-to’s

Learning to surf, paddle, kitesurf, or ride a wakesurf board is easier when you have the right guidance. Surf Hungry’s how-to guides break down techniques, skills, and water sports knowledge into clear, actionable steps — whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to level up a specific skill. From your first pop-up on a surfboard to advanced manoeuvres on the wave face, our step-by-step guides are written by people who’ve been through the learning curve themselves.

Surfing: How To Pop Up: A Step-By-Step Guide

April 24, 2026May 18, 2023 by Dan Harmon

As a beginner surfer, there are many things to learn and master before you comfortably ride most waves. One of the essential skills you’ll need to learn is how to “pop up” because you’re only bodyboarding without it. Fortunately, this article provides a step-by-step guide on how to pop up for those embarking on a surfing adventure. The key to a successful pop-up on a surfboard is your position on the board, correct foot and hand placement, a balanced stance, and practicing the movements until they are natural. Core strength, balance, and coordination are essential for mastering the various pop-up techniques. Once you’ve learned how to paddle the board, the next important technique to learn is how to pop up. Although this beginner’s technique is fundamental to surfing (especially on a longboard or foam surfboard), it is tricky to master. This article focuses on the push-up and slide method for popping up. Start In The Right Position Fundamental to executing the pop-up technique is starting in the right position. Picture this. You’ve paddled out through the surf and joined the lineup. You’ve waited patiently (it’s a busy day), and it’s finally your turn. You paddle hard; the wave starts pushing you. In your excitement, you stand up, but alas! You’re too far back, and your board stalls. How could you avoid this? By being aware of your body’s position on the board before standing up. Where You Lie On The Surfboard Is Essential While paddling out to the waves requires certain body positioning (so you don’t fall off when going over/under waves and swells), once you’re in position, ready to catch a wave, you’ll need to lie on your stomach again in a way that maximizes your paddling capabilities. I.e., lie where you can paddle quickly with your arms so that the wave catches and drives you along. You want to lie far back enough that the surfboard’s nose is in line with, or just above, the water. Too low and you’ll nose dive; too high, the back of the board sits too low in the water, creating drag. Unfortunately, this drag results in the wave not pushing you along sufficiently. You’re too far back if your surfboard’s nose is 30° (or more) above the water. Lying in the correct spot takes practice. As a beginner, you won’t always get it right. If you surf with friends/a group, ask for pointers as you wait for waves (unless you plan on an out-of-body experience, seeing yourself from the side is challenging). Another great way to learn about the ideal position is to ride a few waves lying on a surfboard (like a bodyboarder). Although it may feel embarrassing, you’ll learn where to position yourself and what it feels like when a wave takes you. Preparing For Pushing Up On A Surfboard Once you’re correctly positioned and the right wave approaches, start paddling! You’ll paddle between four and eight strokes to move fast enough to catch a wave. Enough speed is essential for a pop-up, and part of the correct position is moving ahead of the wave. If uncertain, give an extra one or two paddles to ensure you travel with the wave. Once the wave takes over, put your hands (palms down) on the board with your fingers pointing to the surfboard’s nose. They should be next to your pectoral region. If you’re on a longboard, position your feet with the toes down on the surfboard’s tail (most beginners start on longboards, as they are easier to balance and the wave catches them quicker). Congratulations, you’re ready for a push-up! Push Up and Slide Your Feet Although there are four different pop-up methods, the push-up method is the easiest for beginners to master. This technique is ideally suited to longboards and large foam boards. Once you’re moving along with the wave and your hands are in position, push your body up and away from the board, pivoting on your toes on the surfboard’s tail. Slide your feet underneath yourself when your body is above the surfboard (your arms are stretched to their maximum, giving you as much space as possible). As strange as it sounds, the best method for this slide is to bring your back foot (if you stand regular, then your right foot, if you stand goofy, then your left foot) forward first. Your back foot should end roughly in line with your other leg’s knee. Once the back foot is in position, you’ll move the “soon-to-be” front foot forwards and place it between your hands with your knee bent under your chin (ideally, you want to land with your front foot roughly in the middle of the surfboard). Now you’re ready to stand up. Take your hands off and step up. Note: Although you can move your front foot into position first, you risk landing too far back on the board, which would cause you to stall and fall. Tips On Perfecting The Push Up And Feet Slide It’s important to push with the same force on both hands; otherwise, you might tip the board one way. Keeping your hands on the board while sliding your feet helps you maintain your balance and speed (by keeping the nose sufficiently down). Try not to grab onto the rails (side of the board). Your hands under the board create drag and could cause you to topple over. You’ll need to be able to push your body up and hold it on your hands and toes, so a degree of physical strength (arms, core, legs, etc.) is necessary. You’ll hold roughly 80% of your body weight on your arms, freeing up your legs to move forward. Look ahead of you when pushing up. If you look at your feet, you’re likely to fall. Don’t worry about trying to move both feet and land them on the surfboard simultaneously. Rather, focus on sliding the backfoot into position, followed by the front foot forward. When you’ve … Read more

Mastering Kite Tricks For Beginners

December 10, 2023May 18, 2023 by Luke

Kitesurfing is an extreme sport that’s growing at a tremendous rate. Equipment manufacturers and retailers report an average annual growth in sales of over 14%, and it’s expected to grow even more! And that’s with good reason – it’s one of the most exciting sports you can participate in. But what should you know if you want to take up kiteboarding and learn some beginner kite tricks? Beginners can master basic kite tricks, but they should get the best equipment and take all the necessary safety precautions. Getting a professional trainer is also a good idea, especially if you’ve never kitesurfed before. Also, note that the sport can be frustrating initially, but it gets easier. If all of that seems a bit daunting, don’t worry. We will go through everything you should know to master kite tricks, whether you’ve kitesurfed before or not. Whether you’re an absolute beginner kitesurfer or already took to the waves a few times, work through this guide, and you will be performing tricks in no time. Learning The Basics: Kite Tricks For Beginners Kite surfing is an exhilarating water sport that combines the incredible thrill of surfing with the power of a kite. While riding the waves is exciting, learning kite tricks can take your kite surfing experience to a new level. It’s great for showing off your skills and having fun, but it’s also a way to pass the not-so-good days since you can take those times to practice your moves. But you should consider some essential things before practicing your first tricks. Let’s go through them. The first thing to consider is safety. If you can, try to get training from a professional instructor, but at the very least, you should always wear a well-fitted harness and helmet. It’s also important to mind the weather and not attempt kitesurfing in adverse weather conditions. Maintain a reasonable distance from other people to avoid injury on either side. When you embark on your kite trick journey, you’ll need some essential gear: Kite: Choose a kite suitable for your skill level and the prevailing wind conditions. Beginner-friendly kites are generally more stable and forgiving, so don’t go for a premium product if you’re just starting. Control bar: The control bar is your connection to the kite and allows you to control its movements. It’s essential to have one that you can use and grip comfortably. Harness: A kiteboarding harness distributes the kite’s pulling force across your body, reducing strain on your arms. Safety leash: A safety leash attaches you to the kite, allowing you to release it quickly. Wetsuit: Wear a wetsuit or rash guard (depending on the water temperature) to stay comfortable and protected. Board: Select a kiteboard that suits your weight, skill level, and riding style. Before attempting kite tricks, having a solid foundation in kite control and movement is crucial. A professional instructor can guide you through these, but you should focus on launching and landing the kite, adjusting its power, steering, and body dragging. Once you understand basic kite control, it’s time to dive into some beginner-friendly kite tricks. Here are a few maneuvers that are great to start with: Jumping: Begin with small jumps and gradually increase height as you become more comfortable. Focus on maintaining control and a smooth landing. Sliding turns: Practice carving turns by shifting your weight and edging the board to slide across the water. Backrolls and front rolls: These are rotational jumps that involve spinning backward or forward while in the air. Start with slow rotations, then gradually progress to faster spins. As you get better at beginner-level kite tricks, you can explore more challenging moves, such as kite loops, handle passes, unhooked tricks, board-offs, front-flips, backflips, and multiple spins. But it’s vital to remember that mastering intermediate and advanced kite tricks requires practice, dedication, and gradual progression. Always prioritize safety, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from experienced kite surfers or professionals to learn proper techniques. Kitesurfing Trick List: Mastering The Art Of Kite Tricks Now that you have an understanding of the different levels of kite tricks and how to progress let’s explore a comprehensive list of tricks across various skill levels: The Different Types Of Kitesurfing Tricks Kitesurfing tricks can be categorized into three main levels: Basic Tricks Jumping and landing with control Sliding turns and carving Basic grabs (for example, the Indy grab and tail grab) Riding toeside Downwind drag Intermediate Tricks Front roll and back roll jumps Basic handle passes (for example, the 180 pass) Unhooked jumps and rotations Kiteloops Surface handle passes (such as the surface pass and surface handle pass 360) Advanced Tricks: Advanced handle passes (for example, 360 handle pass and kite loop handle pass) Advanced unhooked tricks (like the blind judge and KGB) Powered tricks (for example, the kite loop handle pass with power and the mega loop board-off) Advanced rotations (such as the double backflip and the front loop 720) Remember, there are countless variations and combinations of tricks to explore. The key is to challenge yourself while maintaining a safe and progressive approach to learning. That last point is crucial: progression. You have to work your way through the tricks gradually. Don’t attempt an advanced kite trick if you haven’t mastered the basic and intermediate tricks yet, because the advanced tricks build on the foundations laid by the basic ones. Tips For Practicing And Improving Kite Tricks Here are some tips to help you progress: Set goals. Identify specific tricks you want to learn and break them down into manageable steps. Focus on one trick at a time and build up gradually. Practice regularly. Consistency is key. Dedicate regular practice sessions to kite tricks to build muscle memory and improve your technique—practice in different wind and water conditions to adapt to various scenarios. Film yourself. Use a waterproof action camera or ask a friend to record your sessions. Reviewing your performance will help identify areas for improvement and refine your technique. Seek feedback. Connect … Read more

How To Get Past the Break On A Longboard

December 10, 2023May 18, 2023 by Luke

Longboarding is both thrilling and graceful, often appearing as if you’re dancing on the waves! If you have trouble dealing with the break, you might end up wiping out or missing the best part of the wave! Here are the best techniques and tips for beginners and pros to get past the break on a longboard. You can get past the break on a longboard by using the push-up technique to lift your torso off your board and allow the water to pass between you and the board. Then, use the rocket ship technique, where you use your weight to launch yourself over the wave, and turtle rolling to roll under the wave. A lot goes into getting past the break on a longboard; you need to consider the volume of your board and the width and keep a constant speed. We’ll cover all the crucial factors and follow a detailed step-by-step guide using the push-up, rocket ship, and turtle roll techniques. We’ll cover tips pros use and examine the differences between paddling with longboards and shortboards. Paddling Out In Big Surf On A Longboard You might really enjoy using your 6’6 Foamie board with 44L of volume – its superior buoyancy and stability are unparalleled, making riding the waves much more enjoyable! While this is true, these factors also make it more challenging to negotiate the waves when you paddle out. Duck diving is a handy technique that you can use to dive under an oncoming wave to avoid getting pushed back. It requires you to push your surfboard under the water, which can be difficult with a longboard board with a high volume (buoyancy) and stubbornly refuses to sink. So, how do you get past the whitewater on your longboard? Getting Past Whitewater On A Longboard: Step-By-Step Guide While you can’t completely stop oncoming waves from pushing you back, you can control by how much. You can use a few methods to help you get past the whitewater and paddle out comfortably at a good pace. We’ll examine the raised method, the rocket ship, and turtle rolling. The Push-Up Technique Increase your paddling speed toward the approaching whitewater or the lip of the wave. Speed is vital to help you build momentum and maximize the chances of the technique working. When the whitewater is about to hit you, use your arms to lift your torso up and off the board. This will ensure the whitewater passes between you and your surfboard, significantly reducing the resistance you feel from the wave. If you want to take the push-up technique further, you can also perform a hop motion to lift your feet into the air and off the board. The less water hits your body, the less resistance you’ll experience. This method is ideal for moderate-sized whitewater because if the whitewater is taller than you, it will lift you and push you backward. The Rocket Ship When you see the approaching whitewater, sit up and move to the back of your board, raising your board‘s nose into the air. This is important for gaining the necessary momentum for the next step. As the whitewater is about to hit you, reach your arms as high up your board as you can, and pull your weight toward your board’s nose. Watch your timing; if you don’t have enough weight at the nose of your board when the wave hits, you’ll flip backward. Shooting yourself forward with your weight will help you to propel yourself up, out of the water, and over the wave. The rocket ship is excellent for dealing with smaller waves or when the waves are too big for the push-up technique, but more powerful waves will lift you up and possibly turn you on your back, so be careful! Turtle Rolling Accelerate into the oncoming whitewater, keeping your board perpendicular to the wave (facing the wave). Use both hands and grab the rails of your surfboard. Shift your body off your board and into the water, turning your board upside down so that you are underneath it and holding it with both hands. When the whitewater hits you, jab it with your board to reduce resistance. Once the wave passes, climb back onto your board and continue paddling out. Turtle rolling is ideal if there’s a wave breaking right in front of or on top of you. Rip Currents: How To Use Them To Your Advantage If you’ve spent time in the ocean or have experience with surf lifesaving, you’ve probably heard about rip currents. While they do carry a negative connotation due to their safety risks, experienced surfers often use them to make it back to the lineup much quicker. A rip current results from water rushing back into the ocean after hitting the shoreline. When this process happens for long periods, small-scale erosion forms channels that allow the water to return to the sea. These channels are often deeper than the sand around them, which means that waves don’t break in the rip current itself. Here’s how to spot a rip current: Dark patches of water deep-colored water Fewer breaking waves Rippled surface surrounded by a smooth surface Anything floating beyond the waves (foamy, discolored sandwater) Rip currents are dangerous, so practice safety first, and if there’s a lifeguard on duty, swim where they can see you and between the allocated flags. Longboarding Vs. Shortboarding: Which Is Easier To Paddle? Longboards and shortboards are loads of fun and excitement in their own right, but when it comes to paddling, longboards are easier to paddle than shortboards. Let’s look at the facts: Length – longboards are longer than shortboards, which means they have more glide and momentum on the water. This makes them easier to paddle and catch waves with. Shortboards are shorter and require more effort and speed to paddle and catch waves with. Width – shortboards are narrower and require more skill and agility to paddle and maneuver. Longboards are wider than … Read more

How To Kitesurf For Beginners: Tips And Tricks

November 16, 2023May 18, 2023 by Luke

Kitesurfing is undoubtedly among the most fascinating and thrilling water sports ever, yet getting started remains incredibly daunting for interested beginners. Inexperienced kite surfers are known to find the initial stages frustrating due to the extreme water sports’ steep learning curve; however, with a suitable instructor, location, and gear, you’ll be addicted before you can blink. The early stages of learning kitesurf can be tricky for beginners; most can individually operate their board, kite, and harness after 10 hours of lessons. Surprisingly, kitesurfing is significantly easier than it seems, making it the ideal activity for anyone brave enough to try. Despite frequently appearing as an intimidating and hazardous water sport exclusively reserved for hardcore enthusiasts, kite surfing has developed into the fastest-growing extreme sport globally as it is straightforward to learn, incredibly exhilarating, and globally prevalent. Starting your journey to becoming a skilled kite surfer is the best decision anyone can make, as this article will demonstrate. Can You Teach Yourself To Kitesurf? While it is technically possible to teach yourself to kitesurf, it is not advisable. It is vital to remember that kitesurfing is classified as an extreme water sport, making it hazardous for beginners. Due to the numerous high risks associated with kitesurfing, beginners should purchase several lessons from a qualified instructor before attempting to master the sport without the appropriate assistance. Despite the costs of taking kitesurfing lessons from a qualified instructor, the long-term benefits significantly outweigh the initial time and financial investment. In addition, undertaking kitesurfing lessons with an experienced professional instructor will engrain the extreme water sport’s fundamentals into your mind and muscle memory, making it far easier to progress. Initially, a qualified instructor will demonstrate how to set your gear best up, how to land and launch your kite, and the most effective way to control your board. You will learn vital safety procedures, enabling you to safely release your kite during an emergency while ensuring you know how to avoid unforeseen hazards. If you cannot afford or do not currently have access to a qualified kitesurfing instructor, you can teach yourself. While it is not recommended and is associated with a high level of danger, teaching yourself how to kitesurf is not impossible. However, starting your journey in shallow or calm waters, such as a relatively sheltered lake, is vital. Utilizing a less powerful kite with less power is essential in mitigating as many of the associated hazards as possible. Before you venture into the lake, you should ensure you are equipped with appropriate safety equipment, such as: An impact vests A helmet A rugged safety leashes Teaching yourself how to kitesurf may save money initially, although working with an experienced instructor will make your learning process safer, more enjoyable, and less frustrating. How Long Does It Take To Learn To Kitesurf? The number of hours, days, or weeks required to learn how to kitesurf will vary from person to person, depending on their determination, prior experience, fitness levels, and weather conditions. Most kitesurfing experts agree that learning the extreme water sport can take 10 to 12 hours of dedicated practice with a qualified instructor. It can take you longer than 12 hours of intense practice. In that case, you should not be discouraged, as once you understand the fundamentals, the remainder of the learning process is significantly more straightforward. At the same time, grasping the most influential concepts regarding kitesurfing can take less than 10 hours, especially when you have a fair amount of prior experience, determination, and inherent skill. It is vital to remember that kitesurfing’s learning process is not a standardized one-size fits all approach. The best way for beginner kite surfers to learn the basics of the beloved extreme water sport is by practicing for an hour each weekday for a few weeks. While this may not always be possible, the closer the sessions are together, the more streamlined the learning process will be. How Many Kitesurfing Lessons Do I Need? There is no pre-determined number of lessons beginners need to learn how to kitesurf safely. Experts note that your current budget, commitment levels, and learning objectives directly influence the specific number of lessons required. While some inexperienced kite surfers can kitesurf without the help of an instructor, it is highly recommended to take between three and five lessons before venturing out on their own. It is generally accepted that after three lessons, most people can kitesurf without requiring assistance from a qualified instructor. However, committing to ten or more lessons is the most reliable approach if you want to enhance your skills, take the extreme water sport up full time, or attempt thrilling jumps. What Is The Minimum Age For Kitesurfing? Currently, there is no globally accepted minimum age associated with kitesurfing, but most kitesurfing schools require beginners to be 12 years old before they start their first lesson. It should be noted that some kitesurfing schools will accept people younger than 12 years old, although most prefer not to as it exposes them to unnecessarily high levels of legal risk. In addition, the few kitesurfing schools willing to accept people younger than 12 usually require a parent or legal guardian always to be present. While there are ways to learn how to kitesurf before age 12, it is not recommended for most children as the physical and mental demands can be severe for anyone of that age. It is also crucial to fully consider your child’s current physical and mental maturity before thrusting them into the unforgiving and occasionally hazardous oceans. Any experienced kite surfer will agree that the world’s most popular extreme water sport requires significant coordination, strength, and agility. While everyone has some form of coordination, strength, and agility, the essential characteristics are usually underdeveloped in people younger than 12. If your enthusiastic kid is younger than 12, it is recommended to consult your local kitesurfing school and instructor thoroughly. If the instructor is confident about a positive outcome for your child, allow them … Read more

How to Pack a Surfboard for Travel

July 7, 2023May 4, 2023 by Luke

Imagine it, you think you know how to pack a surfboard for travel, right? Now envisage yourself planning your ultimate surf trip, rocking up at the picture-perfect location, warm blue waters, the tropical sun beating down, 3-4ft a-frames peeling down the reef in front of your room. It’s the stuff of dreams, right? You scramble to get your stuff together for the first session, slapping on sunscreen and pulling on your boardies. Only you get to your board bag, open it and pull out your two brand-new sticks to find both noses crunched. It’s a nightmare. Unfortunately, this situation is all too common for the avid surf traveler. Whether it’s down to lousy board bag packing or, more likely, mishandling from airport workers, our boards get put through it when we travel. It’s always nerve-racking when you open a board bag, and the further you travel, the bigger the worry. While nothing can guarantee a damage-free trip, there are many ways you can pack your beloved surfboards and equipment to reduce the chances of rocking up in paradise with broken sticks. Here, we dive into everything you need to know about packing surfboards for travel, from choosing the right board bag, how to pack them correctly, and how to protect your nose and tail. We have a bit to get through, so let’s get down to it. Choosing The Right Surfboard Bag First, choose a board bag appropriate to your surf travel needs. This will come down to how much travel you plan to do, where you’re going, and how many boards you want to bring. Whatever board bag you choose, you want to avoid having excess space in your bag. Extra room creates space where things can slide around, meaning boards are more likely to get damaged. Instead, you want a compact, tightly packed bag to ensure everything is snug and protected. If you’re only traveling to the beach and back, a day bag will be perfect, which gives you a little protection for carrying one board to the beach and back. If you’re going on an overseas trip and traveling by air, you’ll want a proper board bag with great padding and pockets to keep fins and other surf accessories stashed away nicely. If you plan to travel long-term or want to take 3-4 boards or more, you’ll need a coffin board bag. These are heavy-duty surfboard bags, fit 4+ boards, and have room to carry other things such as clothes and surf accessories. How to Pack Your Surfboard Bag? Packing your surfboard bag is an art form. You can’t simply chuck your boards in with a bundle of clothes and hope for the best. Instead, you need to prepare and pack to ensure your boards are packed in one solid, ding-proof package. Preparing Your Surfboard for Air Travel First, you’ll need to prep your boards. I always like to de-wax and clean up my boards before I travel so that I can arrive with a clean board and new wax job before the first session. A clean board when you pack can mean you don’t get your board socks and bag all waxy. However, this is just an added luxury and not essential. What is essential is protecting your board in a board sock, which provides some extra padding from scratches and dings within the bag. Surfboard Protection I use clothes and towels as a layer of padding for my boards, but if you’ve got the room, you can also use bubble wrap. Bubble wrap or cutting the long pool floats in half can protect the rails. The most critical areas of your boards to protect are the nose and tail. I usually stuff a towel or large jacket around the nose and tail. I then pack clothes down the rails to protect them. Anything you can do to protect the essential parts of the board serves as protection. Surfboard Layout/Order When packing your boards, always pack them in hierarchical order. This means always pack your largest board at the bottom and stack pyramid style from your largest to the smallest. This prevents noses from being crushed. Packing & Padding Ensure your boards are packed neatly; use towels and clothes to add cushion between each one while making sure the nose and tails have even more padding, using thicker clothing items or bubble wrap. Essentially, you want to ensure the bag is packed as tightly as possible, so the weight is spread evenly throughout the bag. Making sure the weight even helps protect your boards, as when the (usually careless) baggage handlers throw your board around, it won’t land with all the weight at the nose or tail. While we all hope our boards get treated well on flights, it’s unfortunately not always the case. Trust me, I’ve seen my boards thrown on a pile of bags before! Alternative Surfboard Transport Options Without a Bag If you’re just traveling to the beach for a beach day, you won’t need the faff of lugging a huge board bag around, so just purchase a board sock or day bag. These still give some protection and can also prevent the board from getting discolored from being left in direct sunlight. Oh, and from your wax melting. Shipping a Surfboard Sometimes shipping a surfboard is a good idea. For instance, if you’re going to Hawaii and ordering boards specifically for North Shore waves or have a custom board order from a different country, there would be no point in ordering your boards home, then flying out with them. Instead, you can order them to your accommodation in your planned destination. You can ship surfboards with all the most renowned shipping companies in the world. I’ve never done this personally, and although it will cost more than flying boards out yourself, it will save you the hassle of traveling with boards, oh, and any unexpected surfboard baggage fees at the airport. Final Thoughts So there, we have everything you need to … Read more

Surfer’s Ear: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

December 7, 2023May 1, 2023 by Luke

Do you know about Surfer’s Ear? We put our bodies through it as surfers. We cram in double sessions on the weekend, jump in the water before and after work, and on surf trips; we spend 8 hours per day paddling, duck diving, getting tubed, or, if you’re like me, taking sets on the head and spending most of the session underwater. This kind of activity fills our sinuses with water, and you only need to have been in the middle of dinner, even on a date and have a cup full of water poor out of your nose onto the dinner table. A little embarrassing, but all part and parcel of being a surfer! But if you’re a cold-water surfer, you face another, more serious problem from surfing too much. Surfer’s ear. If you’ve ever come out of the surf unable to hear, had water stuck in your ear for days, or had an ear infection, you’ll know first-hand how frustrating surfers ear can be. In this article, we dive into everything you need to know about the incredibly annoying surfer ear. From what it is, why it happens, and what you can do to prevent it. What is Surfer’s Ear? Surfer’s ear is a bone growth inside the ear from repeat exposure to cold water and wind. If you live in a cold water surf destination such as Canada, Northern Califonia, Europe, or even South Australia, you’re exposed to the risk of a surfer’s ear. It’s the body’s way of protecting the eardrum from constant cold exposure that can permanently damage your ear. So the bone grows over the canal to protect the more important parts of your ear. Although you know it as the annoying water wedged in your ear after surfing all day, the scientific name for surfer’s ear is exostoses. What Are The Surfer’s Ear Symptoms? Nowadays, we are lucky enough to be able to surf in any water at any temperature. Wetsuits are amazing and allow us to surf for hours in sub zeros and in destinations as far-flung as Alaska, Iceland, and Tasmania. But surfing in such places (particularly if you live and surf there every day) comes with an increased risk of surfer’s ear. Some common symptoms include: Loss of hearing Water stuck in the ear Middle ear infections Ear pain When you can’t get that water out by shaking your head or stuffing your index finger in there–it’s super frustrating. While surfer’s ear can happen to surfers of all ages and abilities, it’s most common for surfers who have surfed in cold water most of their lives and who are in their mid-30s. So now we know the symptoms, how do you treat a surfer’s ear? How to Treat Surfer’s Ear There are several ways to treat a surfer’s ear, but before it gets to the point of needing treatment, you must look for the early signs and put preventative measures in place. Recognize the Early Signs Early signs of surfer’s ear include loss of hearing, having water stuck in the ear after surfing, pain in your ears, etc., all the annoyances of surfing consistently in cold water. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, get checked for the early signs of exostoses by a doctor. They’ll be able to tell you if you have early onset surfers’ ear or not. However, there is something else worth considering if you have experienced these symptoms. I surf all the time and went to get checked for the surfer’s ear after water was lodged in there for days, and I couldn’t hear! The doctor told me I have no signs of surfer’s ear yet (I’m 26), but often water gets trapped behind ear wax, leading to infection. Non-surgical Remedies for Surfer’s Ear? Initially, surfers’ ear doesn’t require treatment; if it’s early or you just have an infection, antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat it. Surgical Remedies for Surfer’s Ear? When things become more serious, when bone grows over the ear canal, partially or completely, surfer’s ear requires treatment. Unfortunately, once the bone starts growing, it doesn’t stop you get it surgically removed. There are two methods you can go about it: By incision – The most common way of treating surfer’s ear is where a pigeon makes an incision behind the patient’s ear and drills into the bone to remove it. By Microchisel – This involved chiseling away the bone growth to clear it. Afterward, a thin sheet of plastic silicone is applied inside the ear to protect the treated area and is removed 3 weeks later. How to Prevent Surfer’s Ear? By far, the best way to treat surfer’s ear is to prevent it in the first place! Ultimately, there is only one way you can prevent surfers’ ear entirely and that’s to avoid surfing in cold water. But you and I both know you won’t be doing that, so the next best option is to wear earplugs and/or a hood for super cold winter sessions. You can purchase custom earplugs online or buy a good set from any decent surf shop or grab standard-sized earplugs over the counter for surfers and swimmers. In my experience, although I don’t have surfers ear (yet), I often use earplugs to avoid infections when surfing in dirty water. (After it rains in Bali) and have found cheap earplugs usually fall out, and it’s well worth investing in a customized pair. Final Thoughts There’s no doubt looking after your ears is a crucial part of being a surfer, and getting constant ear infections and being unable to hear is no badge of honor for being a hardcore surfer, far from it. It’s just annoying. So, whether you’ve got early onset surfers’ ear or want to avoid it before it starts happening, wear ear plugs (invest in good ones), wear a hood if you’re surfing in cold water, and generally take care of your ear health. We’re not going to stop surfing in cold water, and nor … Read more

How to Stay Warm When Surfing in Cold Water: Top Tips for Toasty Waves

December 11, 2023April 25, 2023 by Luke

person surfing on waves in winter - wondering how to stay warm when surfing in cold water

Where I live in Western Australia, we happen to get our best swell in the winter months. As a cold-water winter surfer, I know firsthand how important it is to know how to stay warm when surfing in cold water in order to enjoy the waves. Cold temperatures can quickly sap your energy and make it difficult to perform at your best. With that in mind, I’d like to share some tips on how to stay warm while surfing in cold water. One of the key elements to staying warm during those frosty surf sessions is paying close attention to how we protect our extremities, like our hands and feet. These body parts are typically more exposed to the elements, and as a result, they require some special consideration. In the next sections, I’ll be discussing the different ways to keep your hands and feet warm while riding those chilly swells. What Do Surfers Do to Stay Warm in Winter Wetsuits and Accessories When I surf winter swells in cold water, I make sure to wear a good quality wetsuit with the appropriate thickness to keep my body warm. Thick neoprene wetsuits, especially hooded ones, provide extra insulation against the cold. I also wear essential wetsuit accessories like gloves, booties, and earplugs to protect my extremities and prevent heat loss. Gloves and booties keep my hands and feet warm, while hooded wetsuits and earplugs protect me from cold water flushing and possible ear infections. Techniques and Tips One important tip I follow to stay warm when surfing is to keep moving in the water. I paddle regularly and stay active, as this helps in maintaining my body temperature and blood circulation. Avoiding unnecessary duck dives also helps in retaining body heat by not submerging myself and the surfboard beneath the waves when it is not needed. I don’t know about you, but the old ‘doing a wee in the wetsuit’ offers a bit of immediate relief too and is a classic surfer’s trick where I’m from (Haha, sorry, too much information!?) Diet and Nutrition In order to maintain my energy and body temperature while cold water surfing, I plan a nutritious pre-surf meal. High-calorie foods rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats provide fuel to my body and help me stay warm. Fruits and vegetables with high water content might not be the best choice before cold water surfing, so I opt for more substantial meals instead. Coffee and alcohol might be tempting for a quick fix, but they are not advisable as they can reduce my body’s core temperature. Of course, a hot drink and warm feed immediately after surfing is a great way to warm back up again too. I personally love the Aussie classic of a hot choccie and a sausage roll with tomato sauce! Preparing for Winter Surfing Before heading out for a winter surf, I make sure to warm up by stretching and doing light exercises. Having a warm and insulated van to change in and gather my gear is a great way to start my session comfortably. It’s also a good idea to keep a changing poncho and a container of warm water handy for rinsing and warming up my hands and feet after a surf. Understanding Water Temperature I always consider the water temperature before a winter surf session. Knowing the ideal wetsuit thickness and accessories needed for specific water temperatures helps me prepare better and stay warm while surfing. For instance, thicker wetsuits and extra accessories like hoods and gloves might be essential when water temperatures drop significantly, certainly this is needed when I surf in the colder south eastern states of Australia in the winter; I can only imagine what it’s like in parts of Europe and the USA (you guys are mad!). Rejuvenating after a Cold Surf Session After a cold surf session, I focus on rejuvenating my body and warming up quickly. A hot shower, warm drinks, and dry clothes help me regain my body temperature and recover faster from the effects of cold water surfing. I also make sure to refuel my body with a nutritious post-surf meal to replenish energy and restore balance. In Australia, we surfers wear ugg boots – sheepskin wool lined boots; in fact you wouldn’t be a surfer in winter in Australia unless you pulled your uggies on straight after your feet were nearly dry (even with sand on them, the lot!). Don’t let the cold water stop you chasing epic waves! Get the right gear, eat the right foods, warm up quickly and enjoy the winter swell! LukeLuke is an avid athlete and the driving force behind Surfhungry, a vibrant online platform dedicated to sharing the joy and passion of surfing and water sports with enthusiasts around the world. With a deep-rooted love for the ocean and a lifelong commitment to riding waves, Luke’s journey as a surfer has inspired him to create a community where like-minded individuals can come together to celebrate their shared passion.

How Many Times Per Week Should You Surf?

April 24, 2026April 21, 2023 by Dan Harmon

It sounds dreamy, right? Surfing all day, every day, tropical paradise, not a care in the world! An endless surf trip. However, such a lifestyle is much more difficult and less fun than it may seem. Surprisingly, there is such a thing as too much surfing. For most of us, surfing is a fun pastime, and it should be exactly that. Still, when surfing starts negatively affecting other areas of your life, such as your career, family, and relationships, you must ask yourself some serious questions. In contrast, feeling like you don’t surf enough and stagnating can also take the fun out of surfing. If you can only surf a handful of times in a month and take one surf trip a year, being able to surf how you want to surf is tricky and frustrating. But whether you wish to improve or just enjoy surfing, there must be a perfect balance. A balance between surfing enough to satisfy your appetite and still having time to thrive in your personal and professional life. This article explores this balance. We dive into all the aspects involved with achieving a healthy relationship with surfing and establishing a surf frequency to suit you. There is no one answer to finding the ideal amount of surfing; it’s all down to you. The Benefits & Risks of Surfing Daily It’s tricky weighing up the benefits and risks of surfing every day. And while surfing all day every day sounds amazing, it takes a massive toll on your body! (Let’s face it, we’re not all John Florence and can’t all surf for ten hours daily). However, surfing as much as possible has both positives and negatives. Benefits Progress The best way to get better at surfing is to surf as much as possible. You can do all the out-of-water training in the world, eat healthily, and watch every surf movie ever made, but unless you’re in the water surfing, there is nothing you can do to 100% replicate surfing. Therefore, progression will be limited. You only have to look at the best surfer you know and see how much time they spend in the water. Chances are the best surfers you know are out there at any chance they get! The more waves you surf, the more you expose yourself to different conditions, familiarise yourself with equipment and gather more surfing/ocean reference points. Everything you notice, whether it be how a wave breaks to where to push through a turn, are all references that build up the more your surf. You’ll develop stronger muscle memory when performing maneuvers through sheer repetition, and the more you surf, the more opportunity you’ll have to practice such maneuvers. Enjoyment Let’s face it, we surfers are a greedy bunch, and the more waves we can catch, the happier we are. We’re all guilty of it, taking waves off inferior surfers, getting “one more” wave, and staying out for another 2 hours; it’s part of our nature! While this may seem selfish, the more water time and barrel vision you can clock up significantly affect surfing enjoyment; just imagine it, two weeks straight of getting barreled every day–euphoria. Risks Injury If you’re not super fit, surfing every day all of a sudden can easily lead to overexertion and injury. You can’t go from sitting at a desk for 8 hours per day to surfing all day and expect your body to say, yep, that’s ok; I feel great! Just think back to your last surf trip; you’ll know first-hand how sore and tired you feel after that first day. Surfing with sore and tight muscles only takes a tweak in an awkward position to blow out a knee or twist an ankle. Being Surfed Out If you’ve ever been on a surf trip for ten days or more, you know how hard it is to surf all day for that long. It doesn’t matter how good the waves are or even how much your surf; surfing for more than 5 hours a day is hard, let alone for consecutive days! Even the world’s best need rest days. Surfing too much can also majorly affect your surf motivation, leading to passing up sessions you would have previously been frothing for. So while this is one of the better surf frequency issues, you can surf too much. And surfing as much as possible (as a long-term goal) isn’t necessarily ideal either. For example, if you got paid to surf, whether creating content (like me) or surfing professionally, going surfing can feel like a full-time job, which is a strange feeling because it’s the best job in the world, right? But if you add finances and pressure to anything, it can feel more of a chore than a fun past time. So how do you do it? How do you strike that perfect balance between surf, rest, family, and your professional life? How do you combine these aspects to achieve a healthy life and a good relationship with surfing? Let’s find out! Surfing for Optimal Progression Whether you’re surfing for enjoyment or progression, there are a few considerations that will affect how much you progress in surfing. Water time, conditions, equipment, and enjoyment are the main ingredients for facilitating surf progression. Water Time I know I said above that getting surfed out can be detrimental to your surfing, but the fact remains the more time yous end surfing, the better you get. However, randomly surfing and repeating the same mistakes and bad habits will stagnate your surfing, resulting in the opposite effect. Instead, you want to combine lots of water time with focused sessions, where you consciously go out and work on specific maneuvers. Add in some video analysis coaching, and you have fast-tracked surf progression. Fitness Knowing your fitness level is massive in finding your optimum amount of surfing. And if you want to improve, it’s in your interest to get fit in and out of the water. If you can’t make … Read more

How to Boogie Board for Beginners

June 5, 2023March 15, 2023 by Luke

man learn how to boogie board deep in a big blue wave

If you are looking for a fun and straightforward way to spend time at the beach with family and friends, boogie board is a tremendous outdoor physical activity. And the best part about boogie boarding is that it is suitable for everyone of all ages. As a beginner, you can learn how to ride a boogie board with the right guide. Boogie boarding is an easier alternative to surfing that still gives you the exhilarating experience of catching waves. In this article, you will learn all you need to know about how to use a boogie board. What Is Boogie Boarding? Boogie board is a water sport where you ride the wave with your stomach lying down on a hydrodynamic board. It can be a recreational activity or a professional sport you partake in. The history of the bodyboard is not entirely clear. But according to some theories, it is an activity that started as a form of surfing centuries ago by the indigenous Polynesians, where they rode wooden boards on their bellies. In the 1970s, Tom Morey modernized the bodyboard with the legendary boogie board, which he made with polyethylene foam. So, what is the difference between boogie board and bodyboard ? Used interchangeably, boogie board and bodyboard refer to the same activity. Today, you can get several types of boogie boards, including electric bodyboards like the Kymera Bodyboard, Wave Jam 156 Jet Bodyboard, and so on, allowing you to surf without waves. Step-By-Step Guide on How to Ride a Boogie Board There are several water activities you can take part in whenever you visit the beach, like surfing and boogie bodyboarding. But is boogie boarding easier than surfing? Boogie boarding is easier than surfing, as it is requires less technical skill, less balance, and is less physically demanding. As such, it is an ideal activity for everyone. If it’s your first time trying to get rid of a boogie board, these boogie board tips below will guide you on how to catch your first wave. Step 1: Choose the Right Size Boogie Board When you want to go boogie boarding, one of the first decisions is choosing the right board size, as understanding the science of bodyboards will help when selecting a boogie board. One way to tell a board is right for you is to stand it up on its tail. If your belly button and the top of the board are the same height, it’s the correct size. Also, it would help if you took note of the choice of materials, such as core, slick, or stringer, and the board’s weight. It is also possible to get top quality and easy to transport inflatable boogie boards. Step 2: Prepare for Boogie Boarding After choosing the right board, preparing it before going to the water is vital. Waxing the board is critical as it helps improve its grip. Since wax is not water soluble, it stays on your board even in water. So, apply a small amount of wax to the nose or top third of the board, the tail or bottom third, and the rails or side edges of the board. You should also wear proper gear, such as a rashguard, wetsuits, and swim fins, and secure the boogie board leash to your wrist or arm. Step 3: Find a Suitable Beach Now that you have the right board and gears, the next thing is to find a suitable beach. As a beginner, not every beach is fit to ride for you. Preferably, aim for a beach with a lifeguard less than 2 feet high. Also, ensure that there are no fishing lines or boats in the area, as well as rocks or fast-moving boats, Step 4: Get Into a Position At this point, you can get into the water. But ensure you stay within the beach. Think of it more like testing the water. Stand at the shallow end of the water and observe how the waves behave. Remember, you are not after the big waves as a beginner. So, as the small waves wash to shore, position yourself so that you can easily lie on the board and paddle to catch waves as they flow back. Step 5: Climb the Board As the wave flows back, climb your board with your belly on it. Ensure the board’s nose is pointed towards the beach as you lie on it. Also, keep your head up so you can see where you are going and be able to breathe too. Arch your legs backward as you try to catch the wave. Step 6: Paddle to the Wave The next question on your mind now is, how do you catch waves on a boogie board? As you climb the board, when you see a wave about to break, you must paddle fast to catch it. Place the fits on your legs underwater and paddle as though you are swimming. Also, paddle with one hand or both hands. Step 7: Maintain Balance As you approach the wave, turn your board around so that you are not facing the beach. The nose of the board, you face the beach so you can ride the wave. Note that this is the most challenging part of riding a wave. You can easily tip over and fall into the water if you don’t maintain your balance. Arching your back and keeping your head up before wave riding increases your chances of maintaining your balance. Step 8: Ride the Incoming Wave As you ride the incoming wave, you can try different maneuvering tricks. For example, you can do a cutback where you speed down the wave and then turn around to catch it again before it breaks. Or you can do a down-knee trick by kneeling with one leg and the other leg positioned at the front of the board. Remember, it’s essential to be in total control over the speed and direction of your ride as a boogie boarder. Conclusion Overall, if … Read more

How to Get Up on a Wakeboard | Advice and Tips

August 1, 2023January 4, 2023 by Luke

As the Ski industry began to die in the mid-1990s the tow-boat industry began to fall with it until the popularization of wakeboarding which some consider being the savior of the tow-boat industry. Now with over 2 million wakeboarders in the U.S alone, it is clear that wakeboarding is here to stay. Getting up on a wakeboard can be tricky for new riders, but by correctly positioning your body, relaxing your arms, and bending your legs, you will be standing up in no time. As you are likely excited to dive into this new and exciting sport, it leaves the question: How do you get up on a wakeboard? Know Your Stance It is important to know which way you will be standing on your board before you enter the water. If you leave this until the boat has begun to tow you, you will not know which way to turn your wakeboard, and likely end up hitting the water. As with other side-on board sports such as skateboarding or surfing, you have two stance options: Regular or Goofy. A regular stance is one that positions the right foot at the tail of the board and left in the front. A goofy stance is the mirror image of regular as your back foot will now be at the tail of your board and your right foot at the nose. Should I Stand Regular or Goofy? The stance you take is entirely up to you, but most riders prefer to place their dominant foot at the back of their board. If you don’t know which foot is dominant you can take note of what foot you use first when climbing stairs, kicking a ball, or standing on a skateboard and see which stance feels the most stable. That being said, in some cases a right-dominated person may surf goofy, and vice versa. You should choose the stance that feels the most natural, and not the stance that “should be” correct. Body Position in the Water Once you have discovered your main stance it is important to understand the correct body position while in the water before being towed. If your starting position is off then getting up on the wakeboard will be significantly more challenging. When in the water you should be floating on your back with the wakeboard floating near the surface of the water parallel to the back of the boat. Your entire body should remain relaxed with your knees bent to your shoulders and hands holding the tow rope (palms facing down). Your arms should be in between your legs and kept straight but relaxed. Your heels should also be pushed slightly down to keep the top rail of the wakeboard out of the water. Different Types of Starts When it comes to different starts, there are two main options: Deepwater starts and dock starts. Each of these has its own advantages, but it is the ease of the deepwater start that has a strong contribution to the popularity of the sport, and the start that is recommended for beginners. Deep Water Start Deepwater starts are generally best for beginners as they can be gentler, and you won’t need a professional boat driver. For a deep water start, you will begin lying in the water at the back of the boat as described above. As the boat picks up speed, the momentum will pull you up and out of the water. Dock Start A dock start is slightly more tricky and requires great communication between the rider and the boat driver. You will also need a private dock and an uncrowded area to do this. A dock start can be done by sitting at the edge of the dock with your feet in the bindings. As the boat takes off it will pull you off the deck and onto the water. This can also be done from a standing position by jumping at the opportune moment, but this is past the scope of a new wakeboarder. How to Get Up on a Wakeboard For the purpose of making standing up as easy as possible, we will be discussing how to get up on a wakeboard by using a deep water start. This is because not everyone has access to a private dock and it’s often found to be easier than dock starts. 1. Secure Your Bindings Before you think of jumping into the water you need to make sure your foot bindings are secure. If your bindings are too loose you will not be able to properly control the board, and will likely come out of the bindings if you fall. Bindings that are too tight will hurt your feet and eventually lead to cramping. This takes a lot of the fun out of the sport as you’ll be constantly in pain. 2. Get In the Water Hop off the boat with the tow rope in one hand, or have someone pass it to you once you are in the water. Once you are in the water and holding the tow rope, simply float on your back (which should be easy with the aid of your life jacket) and wait for the boat to move away from you. Once the rope has no more slack you can use it to maintain your balance while floating. You should be lying on your back facing the stern of the boat with your wakeboard parallel to the back of the boat. 3. Secure the Handle Hold the handle of the tow rope with both hands, palms facing the water. The rope should be running between your legs and over the center of the wakeboard’s lip. It is important to keep the rope center so as to not be pulled to the side when the boat speeds up. It is dangerous to fix the tow rope to your board or body as you will be dragged behind the boat if you fall. You should avoid twisting the rope around your hands, … Read more

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