Surfing: Ride Waves, Experience Thrills & Conquer New Height

The Ultimate Guide to Yoga for Surfing

June 5, 2023March 31, 2023 by Luke

woman in black tank top and black leggings doing yoga on blue yoga mat on water, yoga for surfing, she is doing yoga to improve surfing

Surfing and yoga are not an unusual duo. You may have noticed yoga & surf retreats all over popular surf travel destinations. While surfing and yoga may seem unrelated, the two have much in common. Taking up yoga for surfing will do wonders for your on-water surf capability, fitness and skills. Consistent yoga will help ease aches and pains from long sessions, increase paddle strength, improve balance, and prevent injuries. Aside from the physical benefits of yoga to your surfing skills, there is the mental side of yoga. Doing yoga helps you focus on your breath, which tends to calm the body making it super useful if you have a wipeout or dive through a wave. The benefits of yoga are numerous, and in this guide, you will understand why surfers do yoga. 8 Best Types of Yoga for Surfing Originating from India, Yoga is an ancient practice that dates back to 3000 BCE. Its practices involve deliberate stillness, balancing, stretching, and breathing periods. The benefits of yoga are widely documented. But does yoga help with surfing? Yes, yoga helps with surfing; regardless of whether you practice it on a paddleboard or dry land, it offers incredible benefits. Here are some types of yoga you can practice improving your surfing performance. 1. Yoga for Surfing: Warrior 1 – Virabhadrasana In yoga, there are different types of warrior poses, but what differentiates them is the alignment of your hips. In warrior 1 or virabhadrasana, your hips are facing front. As such, you will have a deep stretch in your rear leg. With your front leg bent almost at a 90-degree angle, it also helps activate the muscles in your front leg. Also, keep your front knee secure and stable when trying to get in this position. When practicing the warrior 1 positioning, lift your hands to get more into this stretch and ensure your shoulders are relaxed. Generally, this pose is great for surfers to practice as it helps your hip become more flexible and increases your stability. 2. Yoga for Surfing – Warrior 2: Virabhadrasana II Warrior 2 is another great pose; it improves your balance, works up your hips and groin area, and opens up your chest. From a standing position, place a foot in front and a foot behind at about 5 feet apart. And as you bend your legs deep into the front knee, try to keep your knee in line with your big toes. Also, when practicing the warrior 2 pose, raise your arms at shoulder level and relax your neck. Furthermore, engage your lower belly as you drop your pelvis while ensuring your lower back is straight as possible. Repeat this move on both sides and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds. And while you are in this position, lightly inhale and exhale while ensuring your quadriceps are parallel to the ground. 3. Yoga for Surfing: Pigeon Pose – Eka Pada Rajakapotasana The pigeon pose is one of the most challenging pilates for surfers, but it is efficient if you want to open up your hips and get a deeper stretch. This pose targets your hip flexors and is great for increasing mobility, which are excellent features for surfers. In the pigeon pose, the front leg is bent and lying flat on the yoga mat, while the back leg is straight and being you. Your chest should be relaxed but in a proud position. The pigeon pose is a classic yoga position that offers a fantastic stretch for your glute muscles. As a surfer, this pose aids in improving the flexibility of your hip area. If you aren’t very flexible, using blocks for this pose will be nice. 4. Side Plank Pose – Vasisthasana The side plank pose is another incredible pose that will help strengthen your wrist, shoulders, and abs. It also helps with improving your overall balance. To start with this pose, get into a side plank position with one arm on the ground and the other straight up. Keep your shoulders and core activated and engaged as you get in this position. Also, ensure your body is aligned with a neutral neck. When done well, this pose activates your side core muscles and gets a stretch at the same time. This pose is a good combination because you work out every body part and improve core strength. And if you’d like to make this pose more advanced to help your next surf session, lift your upper foot and hold it with your raised hand. 5. Cobra Pose – Bhujangasana The cobra pose is a great way to increase the spine’s flexibility and relieve pain in the lower back. It involves laying on your stomach with your hand next to your cheek. Ensure your legs are at your back and a hip-width distance. In that position, your hands should be pressed down to lift only your upper body from the ground. And as you lift from the ground, spread your shoulders outwards, and your chest held high. This pose looks similar to how you will lay on a surfboard. When in the cobra pose, have your chest up and slightly bend your back while you try to keep length in your lower back so there is no uncomfortable pressure. Compressing your spine and arching in the spine are common, especially after surfing, so this pose is great to practice before and after surfing. 6. Locust Pose – Shalabhasana The locust pose is more like the inverse of the cobra pose. It is the perfect pose for surfers trying to improve their paddling ability. It involves exhaling and lifting your head, upper torso, legs, and arms away from the floor. In the locust pose, you should rest on your belly, front pelvis, and lower ribs. In this position, you must keep your toes touching as you stretch to reach your legs. At first, reaching your leg seems challenging, but with practice, it gets easier. Remember not to spread your legs apart in this … Read more

A Guide for Older Surfers | Learning to Surf in Your 40s or 50s

July 2, 2023March 30, 2023 by Luke

surfing is good for old people, learning to surf at 40,

While surfing can be extreme sport, it is more about the lifestyle than riding waves. As such, growing old is not a barrier, many older surfers learn to surf in their 40s, 50s and even their 60s. However, as an older surfer, it is important to be mindful of the type of surfboard you use and the spot you go surfing. Generally, older surfers tend to do better on voluminous, wider, and longer, which offers additional stability and paddling power. This guide will discuss the benefits of surfing for older adults, surfers who started late, and the best surfboard for older surfers. Older Surfers: Is Surfing Good for Old People? As we get older, staying active cannot be overemphasized for our physical and mental health. Surfing on a paddleboard or surfboard is an amazing activity that offers a mix of aerobic and anaerobic exercises. It has many health benefits as an all-round workout activity. Here are reasons surfing is good for older people. A Form of Exercise Surfing is a great exercise that helps older people exercise their joints and muscles. The process of paddling and riding waves involves the movement of many muscles, which helps improve the endurance, physical strength, and flexibility of older people. As a bonus, surfing helps older people improve their stability and balance, which contributes to ensuring their bodies are in tune and avoiding harmful falls. After all, surfing engages large muscle groups in the torso and legs, which is great for keeping in shape. Improves Mental Health Another reason learning to surf at 40 or even at 70 is great is that it offers several mental benefits beyond improving physical health. Older surfers can keep their minds engaged and exercised by analyzing and navigating waves. Also, surfing boosts the mood, keeping surfers happier than before getting in the water. When you surf, more dopamine and endorphins get released into the body, which helps to improve the mood. Boost Immune System As we age, the effects on our immune system tend to manifest at multiple levels. But generally, it tends to diminish in function as we mature. Hence elderly do not respond to immune challenges as robustly as the young, making the elderly prone to falling ill. But when the elderly engage in activities like surfing to stay active, it helps to boost the immune system. Physical activity like surfing and cold water boosts your immune system by stimulating the lymphatic system, which helps the body fight diseases and infections better. Improve Skin Quality Another reason the elderly should consider surfing is that it is great with your beauty regime. It’s common for the skin to lose its elasticity and hair as we age. But surfing in the ocean is a great way to improve skin quality. The ocean water is salty, a great way to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells. Also, the saltwater in the ocean helps to relieve acne and make the skin glow and look brighter. Since saltwater contains minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and so on, it helps keep your hair healthy and strong. Fun for Older Surfers Surfing is also a fun way for the elderly to pass the time. It might not be the easiest learning activity, but the rewards are huge once you commit yourself to it and overcome the barrier. Any surfer surfing for a while will tell you the activity is addictive and exciting, providing a sense of freedom. Surfing allows you to have fun while strengthening your mind, body, and soul. It also provides surfers with many opportunities to make friends and socialize. Also, surfing provides an inspiration to travel with intention. Older Surfers: Pro Surfers Who Started Late Have you ever wondered, “how many years does it take to learn surfing?” Interestingly, it takes less time than many people often do. Generally, it can take between two hours to a month of practice. Even if you’re a slow learner and you struggle a bit, it wouldn’t take you more than two months to be able to ride a wave. As such, there is always time to learn how to surf. Below are a few examples of pro surfers who started late but could still reach the top. Seiichi Sano Seiichi Sano is one of the oldest male surfers in history. Born in September 1933 in Japan, Seiichi is an 89-year-old surfer who started surfing at 80. He currently holds the Guinness world record for being the oldest active surfer. Seiichi was awarded the Guinness world record on the 8th of July, 2022. And to date, Seiichi still enjoys surfing and regularly enjoys the ocean despite his age. Bernie Shelly Another name that comes to mind when considering old surfers is Bernie Shelly. This Capetonian granny surely did not let age get in the way of her lifestyle, as she still surfs at 70. If she can do it at 70, then learning to surf at 70 is possible. Although Bernie has been surfing since she was 19, being married and having to undergo bilateral hip surgery all put a pause on her travels and surfing activities. But she didn’t quit and made a comeback to surfing and today has competed in several renowned events and has several achievements to her name. Kelly Slater Kelly Slater is another one of the oldest competitive surfers in the industry. Born in 1972, Kelly is an American professional surfer popular for his achievement in the World Surf League. Kelly holds 56 championship tour victories, making him one of the oldest successful surfers in the industry. If, at the age of 51, Kelly is still shredding waves, then learning to surf at 50 is possible. Though Kelly began surfing at age five, his love for surfing most likely took root from growing up near water as he was the son of a bait-store proprietor. And at age 10, he already had a title to his name up and down the Atlantic coast. Barry McGuigan Barry … Read more

Top 5 Best Indoor Surfing Venues and Wave Pools in the USA

December 10, 2023March 15, 2023 by Luke

When the Beach Boys released their massive hit “Surfin’ USA” in March of 1963, they could have never imagined a day when the lyrics “everybody’s going surfing” could be followed by “in an indoor surfing venue in the USA!” It only makes sense that we can replicate ocean surfing in indoor venues now since we do the same for activities from rock climbing to hitting golf balls to target practice and more. Indoor surfing venues offer a way for nervous first-timers to try their luck at surfing in a controlled environment and for seasoned surfers to practice when they cannot make it to the beach. We have all the information you need on how to surf in wave pools, and our roundup of the top 5 best indoor surfing and wave pool venues in the USA below. Can You Learn to Surf Indoors? Some skeptics might wonder if you can learn to surf indoors, especially those who have never dipped their toe in a wave pool. But the answer is “absolutely! You can learn to surf indoors!” Learning to surf indoors may prove easier for you for a variety of reasons. The first and most obvious reason is location. If you do not live anywhere near a coastline, surfing seems out of reach as a hobby. Even if you travel to the beach for an annual summer vacation with your family, one week is a short time to conquer the waves or build your skills. Wave pools offer a way for those who are landlocked to experience the same thrill as those who are fortunate enough to live near salt water and sand. For others, indoor surf venues and wave pools also offer a controlled environment where nervous first-timers may be more confident about trying to surf. Rather than paddling out into the unknown, newbie surfers can try out some consistent waves they feel comfortable with instead of wondering what sort of swell might lie ahead. Staff members and instructors at wave pools can also guide nervous beginners with important safety tips and tricks for getting up on the board. By practicing in a controlled environment first, surfers can master some important skills before testing their luck in ocean waves. Additionally, wave pools give experienced surfers another avenue for training and working on stance, balance, and more. What Is Indoor Surfing Called? If you have spent time at any wave pools or water parks, you might be familiar with the terms “Flowriding” or “Flowboarding” and think they are synonymous with indoor surfing. Any ocean surfer will quickly tell you there are some distinct differences between the two. Indoor surfing is ultimately the same as outdoor or ocean surfing. Flowriding, on the other hand, is a popular activity that incorporates some elements of surfing along with skills used in bodyboarding, wakeboarding, skimboarding, snowboarding, and skateboarding. There has always been a considerable amount of overlap among these sports, especially considering the many crossovers between surf culture and skateboard culture. A FlowRider produces a consistent “sheet wave” that does not move forward, so the rider can perform carving and jumping tricks over the water as it consistently flows over a stationary surface. Flowriding is now so popular that it has its own league (Flowriding League of the World, or “FLOW”) and a world championship for its top competitors. Indoor Surfing and Wave Pool Locations: The Best in the US Wave pools are popular destinations all across the globe, giving thrill seekers worldwide a chance to jump on a surfboard no matter how far they live from the beach. Thankfully there are numerous choices in the US, making it fairly easy for any American to experience that “surf’s up” feeling. If you are ready to give indoor surfing (or outdoor wave pools) a try, check out some of our favorite venues below. Kelly Slater Surf Ranch Website: kswaveco.com/surf-ranch/ Location: 18556 Jackson Avenue, Lemoore, California, 93245 Schedule: Limited availability (learn more here) Few names are as synonymous with surfing as Kelly Slater’s, and his surf ranch in Central California is one of the most sought-after experiences for surfers thanks to an incredible system that produces the longest open-barrel artificial waves anywhere. The waves at the Surf Ranch measure between 3 and 8 feet in a pool that operates on a simple plow system. Surfers can bring their own boards or choose from an outstanding selection of boards onsite. In addition to surfing, visitors can take advantage of outstanding accommodations and amenities, hanging with other surfers around the fire pit, relaxing in the hot tub, or enjoying local, organic dishes prepared by an onsite chef. The only downside of the Surf Ranch is its limited availability to the public, but if you are one of the lucky few who gets a chance to ride the waves here, it will be an experience unlike any other. Skudin Surf at American Dream Website: skudinsurfamericandream.com Location: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 Schedule: Open year-round, with surf sessions available from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 8:00 p.m. to midnight Located just 15 minutes away from New York City, Skudin Surf at American Dream gives urban dwellers a chance to get out of cramped apartments, cold winter temperatures, or boring office cubicles and transport themselves to far-flung places like the North Shore, all thanks to an indoor wave pool where everyone from beginners to seasoned surfers can catch some incredible waves. Private or public sessions are available to surfers, and the park also offers more than 50 different boards that can be used on a first-come, first-serve basis. The water temperature is 80 degrees year-round, so visitors can surf comfortably even when the temperatures outside are frigid. Waves are as small as one foot for beginners and up to four feet for more advanced surfers. Splash House Indiana Website: cityofmarion.in.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation/splash-house Location: 2601 S. Adams Street, Marion, Indiana, Schedule: Memorial Day through Labor Day, closed Mondays, open weekends after August This seasonal Indiana park is home … Read more

‘100 Foot Wave’ Garrett McNamara Series

June 5, 2023March 14, 2023 by Luke

Garrett McNamara big wave surfer with surf board, as starring in his series 100 ft wave

Have you heard about the legendary big wave surfer Garrett McNamara? Garrett gained international recognition for surfing a 100-foot wave in Nazaré, Portugal, back in 2011. This surfer board in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, began surfing at a young age and soon became fascinated with the thrills of catching large waves. He soon started traveling around the world to catch the biggest waves. Known for pushing the limits of what is possible on a surfboard. And in no time, Garrett McNamara’s feat in Nazaré cemented his legacy as one of the greatest big wave surfers ever. Garrett has inspired a new generation of surfers to pursue the thrill of massive waves. What Is this ‘100 Foot Wave’ Netflix Documentary About Garrett McNamara? So, is there a documentary about riding the biggest wave? Well, yes, HBO has produced a documentary about McNamara titled “100 Foot Wave.” This HBO surfing documentary is a chronicle about Garrett’s journey to surf the world’s largest waves. It premiered on HBO on July 18, 2021, and soon enthusiast surfers can watch the 100 Foot Wave online on other networks like HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and so on. Directed by Chris Smith, the 100 Foot Wave is a single-season series with six episodes focusing on Garrett’s time in Nazaré, where he hoped to find and conquer a 100-foot wave. The documentary captures the intensity and drama of that historical moment and the emotional and physical toll it took on Garrett. Overall, the series is an inspiring and thrilling documentary celebrating big-wave surfers‘ skill and bravery. Will there be a season 2, and if so, when is the 100 Foot Wave season 2 release date? In August 2021, HBO renewed the series for a second season. So, if you fascinate the culture and community of big surfers, stay tuned for the release date of the surfing documentary Netflix 100 Foot wave season 2 in 2023 by HBO. Synopsis of the Episodes of Garrett McNamara 100 Foot Wave Amazon Prime, HBO, Netflix The 100 Foot wave big wave documentary Netflix explores the mindset of big wave surfers. The series explores the sacrifices and dedication required of surfers to pursue such an intense passion. Garrett’s pursuit of surfing feat was broken down into six chapters in the series and are as follows. Chapter 1: Sea Monsters Aired on July 18, 2021, chapter 1 of the series begins with professional surfer Garrett retiring to pursue his lifelong dream of riding a 100-foot wave after winning at a competition at Maui’s world-famous Jaw surf break in 2003. In 2010, Garrett and his wife Nicole invited big wave surfers to Nazaré, Portugal. Chapter II: We’re Not Surfers Chapter II, aired on July 25, 2021, reviews Garrett and their team reconvening in Nazaré in 2011. In this reconvene, Garratt and his team kicked preparations into high gear to prepare for the upcoming attempt to make history as he catches a nearly 80-foot tall wave that captures him to international fame. And as expected, there were some unexpected hurdles with Garrett catching the epic wave that will forever change him, the small seaside town, and even the legacy of the sport. Chapter III: Mavericks Chapter III, titled Mavericks, aired on August 1, 2021. It remunerates Garrett’s challenges at Nazaré and his decision to return to competitive surfing at big wave sites in 2017. But before this, he visited his mother, whose presence promoted this exploration. Also in this chapter is the drama of a group of Brazilians who arrived at Nazaré in 2013 but failed to head to Garrett’s safety tips, which resulted in a near-fatal accident. Chapter IV: Dancing With God In 2017, several prominent surfers flocked to Nazaré for its largest swell. This episode aired on August 8, 2021, with Andrew Cotton suffering a devastating wipeout. n 2019, after rallying through a back-to-back concussion and a broken foot, Garrett sustained another injury that threatened to permanently remove him as a big wave surfer. Meanwhile, his friend catches an 80-foot wave at Nazaré when big wave surfing, taking the Guiness world record from McNamara. Chapter V: The Circus Aired on August 15, 2021, chapter V of the 100-foot wave follows after the World Surf League announced that Nazaré would host the upcoming big wave competition; prominent from around the globe flocks to Nazaré to participate in the tournament. But with the event getting closer, so did Garrett’s concerns over the proposed safety of protocols, and they tried to convince organizers to beef up their plans. On top of that, he struggles with his mental preparedness and physical injuries. Despite the fact he was not ready, seeing other world-class surfers made him consider competing anyways. Chapter VI: More Than Just a Wipeout The final episode of the 100 Foot Wave series aired on August 22, 2021, is set on the day of the Nazaré competition. Garrett decides not to compete but to support his long-time friend and teammate, Andrew Cotton. Sadly, the competition did not go smoothly, with a major accident that had a secondary effect on Cotty. But after the competition, Garratt tried to surf at Nazaré again and realized he could resume big-wave surfing. The episodes conclude with a retrospective of several surfers who appeared in various series episodes. Critiques and Controversy of Garrett McNamara 100 Foot Wave Surfing With big wave surfing becoming more popular, it became a subject of criticism and scrutiny. Some raised questions about the ethics and safety of pushing the limit of what is possible in the ocean. Some even raised criticism about the impact it can have on the environment. But the 100ft Wave Netflix does not shy away from these issues. Rather the series explores the risks involved in big wave surfing and encourages prospective surfers to take proper caution when big waves surge. It addresses the issue of the impact of the sport on the environment and the need for surfers to be responsible for the practices to ensure that the ocean remains a sustainable … Read more

Haydenshapes Hypto Krypto Review

April 26, 2023March 3, 2023 by Luke

Anyone in the surfing community must have at one point, heard of the Hypto Krypto. A lot has been said about it. A lot has been written about it. But, does this multiple-award-winning surfboard presented by Hayden Cox to the famous Craig Anderson, really make the grade of one board quiver killer? Or is it just another superficial marketing campaign? Hypto Krypto reviews are everywhere. Raves about it are posted online, some through written comments and others through video reviews. One thing is for sure, it does live up to the hype. Craig Anderson and Hayden Shapes’ Hypto Krypto When Hayden Cox showed his team rider Craig Anderson a surfboard of an unexpected sort, the latter was so thrilled he didn’t touch it for a year. He just stared at the surfboard that was narrow in the tail combined with a wide point forward that resembled something from the 70s. Looks retro but dressed in carbon fiber Flex Rails and a regular 3-fin setup. The sight of Hypto Krypto took him back to when he was younger. Mostly because he wasn’t into the complicated-looking fish boards, rather he was fond of clean and normal-looking ones. For Craig Anderson, shorter and aesthetically weird surfboards have that unclean and almost cheating personality to them. He took it out one time to try it out on shallow banks and that started his relationship with Hypto Krypto. He rode with it everywhere and anyone who saw him with it was convinced it was the next best thing to ride. Just this single picture alone is enough to convert you to turn into Hypto Krypto. I mean, look at how they both make surfing look easy. For Craig, his experience with Hypto Krypto made him not want to have another board under his feet. Hypto Krypto made serious drops when you commit to them. He wouldn’t give much thought to his feet when he stands up. He gets a bunch of paddle speeds, and waves. It rides fast and it just suits his surfing. Hypto Krypto In Detail So, just how does this board make Craig Anderson feel that way? And, other famous riders who have tried it for that matter? Simple. At least, according to its shaper, Hayden Cox. Hayden was shaping a couple of twin fins that had the same traditional wide swallowtail designs and he felt they went too straight. It didn’t fit into the pocket. His solution was to grab the same design, add his semi-gun rounded pintail, and blended the curves, and to his surprise, it worked. The best shapers know that when you pull the tail, move the wide point forward of to the middle, give it a straight rocker, and allow it to rely on the curve of the outline making maneuverability. It was the same ingredients used with Dave Parmenter’s Stub Vectors in the 90s. What makes the two different is that Hypto Krypto brought this genre to the new generation. And with a personality like Craig Anderson who rides it in such a sublime fashion, it made the board close to enchantment, that it rose Hayden’s worldwide sales to more than 30%. Hypto Krypto – The One Board Quiver Hayden Shapes describes the Hypto Krypto as a balance of tradition and modern performance. They are suited to elite-level riders down to the everyday surfer. Its versatility gave its title the “one board quiver.” Its engineering and design allow it to be the board you need for all types of surf conditions. Its features are well familiar – wide nose like the fish, pulled-in pintail, and flat rocker. There is just the right amount of concave in its bottom and there is no need to add some more to speed the board up, or it will only make it feel out of control. The restrained amount of tail kick and nose makes it very user-friendly in the pockets when sized accordingly. It allows you to undertake the face with ease with its low tuckered rails. But, if surfing back in the pocket is not what you feel like doing on some days, Hypto Krypto is still the board you would want to ride. Its shape still lends itself to be surfed longer when you just want to cruise. Surfing with aggression – only do it with the right level of expertise. Hypto Krypto surfs top to bottom. It wraps back in the pocket and allows the rider to do a variety of enjoyable spins. But, to do this, you must take the volume out of the picture. Volume is more of a guide with the Hypto Krypto. The Future Flex that this board feature makes the board super floaty, creating that feeling of riding a couple more liters than what the board really is. This is partly due to the flat rocker combined with the wide nose, leaving most of the foam under your chest. These features allow aggressive riders to drop nearly 2 liters out. You can ride the board not just in 8 ft waves, but even more so in knee-high conditions. Speed is one thing Hypto Krypto will not fail to produce. It won’t even require you to exert too much effort to generate speed on it. In reality, the more you try and complicate speed generation with this board, the slower you down. The quality of construction – the Future Flex technology is outstanding. It does get footwell and compressions on the deck, but you won’t have any problems when the wind is up off the board feeling long-winded or breezy. Hypto Krypto at a Glance Rocker: Flat throughout with a slight lift in the entry Rail: Low rails Concave: Rolled Vee in the entry to a slight single blending into a vee double Tail Shape: Rounded Pin Construction and Glassing: Future Flex PE (Polyurethane-Epoxy) PE-C (Polyurethane-Epoxy Carbon Composite) Fin Layout and System: FCS II Futures Thruster Five Quad Recommended Sizes Height Width Thickness Volume Weight Range 5′ 0″ 19″ 2 1/16″ … Read more

Eddie Would Go: Surf Slang You Need to Know

June 6, 2023February 27, 2023 by Luke

“Eddie would go” is one of the most widely used phrases in surf culture, even four decades after the Eddie in question was last seen alive. What made this Eddie so special among the surfing community that his name would still be revered long after he was gone? Read on to learn why this phrase still resonates among surfers worldwide and how it began with one humble yet wildly talented surfer, Eddie Aikau. Eddie Aikau: Lifeguard, Surfer, Local Legend Born in 1946 in Kahului, Maui, a Hawaiian island, Eddie Aikau would later move to O’ahu with his family and, as a teenager, began working in the Dole Pineapple cannery in the early 1960s. This was when Hawaii was still one of the world’s largest exporters of pineapples, and Eddie used his earnings from the job to purchase his first surfboard, which would ultimately change the trajectory of his life. But it was not only Eddie’s life that would be changed by his love affair with the ocean—he saved hundreds of lives as Waimea Bay’s first lifeguard. Eddie would brave the waves to rescue surfers and swimmers in peril, no matter how high. His days as a lifeguard were unmarked by a single failure, having lost no lives during the time he watched over the seas. Just as he found unmatched success as a lifeguard, Eddie was quietly developing his talent as a big wave surfer. He would reach the finals in the Duke Kahanamoku Invitational Surfing Championship six times before winning the event in 1977. Eddie Aikau was a humble and modest man whose passion was chasing the biggest waves and doing it for the thrill of it, not for awards and accolades. Only after he was gone did the masses truly recognize Eddie’s skill, and his influence on other surfers began to grow. What Happened to Eddie Aikau? Sadly, Eddie Aikau’s life was cut short and ended in tragedy, though perhaps fittingly, he spent his final moments in the waters he loved. Eddie’s adventurous spirit was tested when he volunteered to go on a 30-day voyage with the Polynesian Voyaging Society, tracing a 2,500-mile route representing the ancient Polynesian migration journey. This route between the Hawaiian and Tahitian island chains was not for the faint of heart, and despite his incredible skills as a lifeguard and surfer, Eddie would not survive the journey. The canoe Eddie was traveling in capsized after a leak, and he attempted to paddle to land on his surfboard, but Eddie would never make it to safety. Did They Ever Find Eddie Aikau? The US Coast Guard Cutter Cape Corwin was able to rescue the other members of Eddie’s crew, but he was never found, and his body was not recovered, despite a massive air and sea search for him. His death is recorded as March 18, 1978, with remains never located at sea. Eddie left behind a wife, Linda Crosswhite, and a brother, Clyde, who would carry on Eddie’s legacy and love of North Shore surfing. Who Said ‘Eddie Would Go’? The popular surf culture phrase “Eddie Would Go” has been attributed to surfer Mark Foo, another legend in the surfing world. Foo chased big waves just as Eddie Aikau had before him and was once rescued by a helicopter after a 1986 North Shore excursion where onlookers noted the waves were over 6 feet. He later died in a tragic surfing accident in Half Moon Bay in California in 1994. Foo was present for the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational in 1985, a big wave contest held to honor Eddie’s legacy. A stipulation of the event (which has been held 34 times and is lauded as the “Super Bowl of Surfing”) is that waves must be consistently 20 feet or higher, making it both a thrilling and dangerous surf competition. At the 1985 event, organizers had some concerns about the 25-foot waves and debated whether or not to proceed. As the story goes, Mark Foo pushed them forward with three simple yet powerful words: “Eddie would go.” What Does Eddie Would Go Mean? “Eddie would go” is now a phrase used by surfers all across the globe to represent courage in the face of the unknown. It is a motto for those who chase big waves or any thrill seeker propelled by a sense of daring and adventure. “Eddie would go” also represents the fighting spirit found in a man who braved the biggest waves to save others. It is an especially poignant saying for native Hawaiians, who remember the brave yet humble surfer and lifeguard and what he represents in their culture and heritage. That legacy lives on in Eddie’s brother Clyde, who ultimately won the first Eddie Aikau Invitational (after a tiebreaker with Mark Foo). Eddie Would Go: The Story of Eddie Aikau, Hawaiian Hero and Pioneer of Big Wave Surfing by Stuart Holmes Coleman digs deeper into the legacy of both the man and the indelible mark the saying has made on surf culture. Eddie Sayings in Surf and Popular Culture The influence of Eddie Aikau lives on in a number of other phrases well-known among the best surfers who chase big waves. “Eddie Wouldn’t Crow” is used in the surfing and beach community as a reminder of this humble man who would not have bragged about his accomplishments. “Eddie Wouldn’t Tow” is used as a sort of purist statement against tow-in surfing, as Eddie was devoted to paddling into the surf. “Eddie Would Hoe” links this native Hawaiian’s determination and spirit to some of the state’s agricultural outreach programs. Even the Honolulu Rail Transit project jumped on board with “Eddie Would Ride.” Eddie Aikau’s spirit lives on in the surfing and beach community and among all Hawaiians who honor him as a man who saved lives, dared to chase the biggest waves, and did it all with great humility.LukeLuke is an avid athlete and the driving force behind Surfhungry, a vibrant online platform dedicated to sharing the joy … Read more

Top 11 Best Surfboard Brands

November 22, 2024February 10, 2023 by Luke

best surfboard brands all lined up in a rack

In Naima Green’s, An Insider’s Guide to Surfing, published in 2014, Green said, “One of the greatest things about the sport of surfing is that you need only three things: your body, a wave, and a surfboard.” Two out of the three elements mentioned are a given. The third is the one that you should pick sensibly. It is the connection between the first two elements. Therefore, you should be on the lookout for the best surfboard brand for that superior surfing experience. From longboards to shortboards, fish to fun-size, groveler to the glider, the list goes on for the different kinds of surfboards. Each has its differentiation in every detail – shape, outline, fin system. Manufacturers engineered that to get surfers that effect of ultimate feels during rides. Don’t get too overwhelmed with all the surfboard brands out in the market. As with most things, just because a brand is used by someone popular doesn’t mean they’re the right one for you. The coolest part about finding the best surfboard brand is that among the many you will see, there will be that one stick that just resonates with you. As if calling your name and telling you to “Buy me!” You must’ve typed in your search box as you’ve asked yourself, “What is the best surfboard brand?” The surfing gods must have been watching you and sent you over here to the right place! We’ve listed down the top-of-the-line brands that specialize in the surfboarding industry, companies that mastered products like materials for the surfboard and even related apparel. Read on and you just might find the right brand for you! The Best Surfboard Brands in the Market Today South Bay Board Company Chilli Surfboards FireWire Surfboards Channel Islands Surfboards Lost Surfboards JS Industries Haydenshapes Surfboards Wavestorm BIC Sport California Board Company Liquid Shredder #1. South Bay Board Company Based out of the South Bay in Los Angeles, California, South Bay Board Co. is a soft-top surfboard company that specializes in beginner surfboards, hybrid surfboards, SUP boards, and a wide range of beach accessories. They are one of the best surfboard brands for beginners, mainly because of their hybrid collection. This collection includes entry-level soft top surfboards, hybrid soft top surfboards, and paddleboards. Their hybrid soft top surfboards are the go-to boards for advanced riders in smaller waves. If you are still trying to get accustomed to the waves, you can hop on their paddleboards. The technology they use to keep up with the mainstream surfing culture includes relying on high-density IXPE foam construction. Added is their stabilizing tri-fin system with spherical rockers that help boards rip through waves with so much ease. Official Site: www.southbayboardco.com Our In-Depth Review: South Bay Board Co. #2. Chilli Surfboards James Cheal has been surfing since he was 13. He braved his way during his late teens to Sydney to start working at a surfboard company. He sanded and swept floors for next to nothing. It was in 1995 when he first shaped his surfboard. He was 22. Without much expectation, he rode it on waters and was surprised it worked how he wanted it to. 2 years later and more than a couple more boards he shaped since his first, he founded Chilli Surfboards in a small factory in Brookvale, Australia. Chilli surfboards brag attention to detail that you won’t find in such places. They put much time and effort into making certain their one-of-a-kind boards are unique and powerful. From the Futures fins designed leash plug to the Colan carbon inlays, the fabrication is exceptional. Chilli surfboards cater for every level of surfing and every kind of surfer. There’s that Chilli surfboard that your neighbor’s 7-yo son is riding and there is also that Chilli surfboard that Andy Irons ripped with when he competed in the 2004 WSL. Official Site: www.chillisurfboards.com #3. FireWire Surfboards FireWire is combined designs of surfboard enthusiasts/designers Rob Machado and Dan Mann. They are dedicated to elevating surfing experience while minimizing waste in landfills. Their efforts are focused primarily on repurposing waste. As with any manufacturing process, building surfboards and its accessories generates waste. They are pushing to achieve the goal of zero landfills by 2020. Over the years, they have been keeping EPS foam dust out of landfills. They do that by turning them into walkable surfaces. FireWire Surfboards use a patented sandwich blank construction to produce a lighter and sturdier board than the conventional PU (polyurethane) surfboards. This technology results in a minimal density with only 1 pound of EPS (expanded Polystyrene) foam. FireWire Surfboards shells are composed of fiberglass and epoxy resin Their surfboard variations include the FST-Springer model and the Rapid Fire. The Springer is their variation where there is an added balsa stringer in the center of the surfboard for more stiffness. The Rapid Fire is that where an extra pound of EPS foam. This makes an air valve unnecessary due to higher density and less air in its core. Official site: www.firewiresurfboards.com Our In-Depth Review: FireWire Surfboards #4. Channel Islands Surfboards Created by Al and Terry Merrick in 1969, Channel Islands Surfboards has been committed to performance and quality employing perseverance, innovation, and originality. They have grown from local grass-roots operations to a progressive organization, continuously catering to surfers regardless of their level of experience. Al Merrick has been one of the most significant and influential personality in the surfboard shaping history. He grew plans for the growth of shortboard from when they were still 12 feet long and made from cheap plastic. Since then, they have been innovating the most cutting-edge designs in the market. Channel Islands Surfboards consistently maintains itself as one of the best brands in the business. With their “Surfboard of the Year” award for their Average Joe model, it is no surprise that the best surfers in the world like Taylor Knox, Kelly Slater, and Lisa Anderson. Shaun Tomson won his 1977 world title using an Al Merrick surfboard. 45 years later, they remain on top … Read more

Is Surfline Premium Worth It? | Everything You Need to Know

January 5, 2023January 4, 2023 by Luke

Do you like watching the waves? In 2019, Surfline released the premium version of their app where you can watch HD live streams of your favorite surf spots on your phone. With this, you don’t need to wake up early in the morning to check the wave swells, only to end up going back home because the water’s flat or too unpredictable. Even when you’re not surfing, you still get to enjoy your favorite pastime. How awesome is that? To be honest, the Surfline Premium had a pretty smooth start — but not until 2020 happened. In this article, we’ll tell you all about it. We’ll also be discussing if the premium version is really worth your investment, along with the features that give it an edge over other forecasting websites. The History of Surfline Before we get into more details, we first want to briefly talk about the history and background of Surfline to help you understand their work and impact on the surfing world. Every day, thousands of surfers all over the United States go to Surfline’s website to check the waves, making it one of the leading forecast websites for fishing, boating, and surfing reports. But did you know that this company goes way back in the history of forecasting wave conditions? In 1985, Surfline started as a hotline number that surfers can call if they wanted to ask for surf reports and expected swell conditions in some of the surfing’s hottest spots. So how did they do it? As technology wasn’t too advanced during that time, the only way they can relay about the swell conditions is by hiring more than 50 surfers to travel and give reports from their location to the main central office of Surfline in Huntington Beach, California. Their first surf forecast ever recorded was from March 26, 1985, and because of its success, the 976-SURF became a trademark number that almost all surfers memorized during that time. In their first month of launching, Surfline received over 6,000 phone calls from surfers all over Southern California. The main highlight of the daily surf forecasts was the report of young surfer (also the current owner of this company) Sean Collins, who had an incredible skill of predicting the arrival of swells. Long after that, the company expanded its long-range forecasts to other states like Northern California, Florida, and Texas. Fast forward to 1995, Surfline.com launched, which offered free surf information through their online service. In 1996, Surfline hosted their first camera streaming of Huntington Beach, which gained them over 500,000 visitors a week. This breakthrough gave them an opportunity to make money from advertisements and membership fees, which they used to expand their research towards the technology that we have today. Surfline Premium Alright, so back to our main topic, folks. When the premium version was released, Surfline loyalists REALLY kicked up a fuss. The most popular surf forecasting website behind MagicSeaweed, CoastalWatch, and BuoyWeather faced a lot of backlash, and it’s mainly because of this — the HD cam that was free before can only be now accessed by premium members only. Let’s rewind things back a little bit. Before, surfers used to watch the waves through the Surfline app for free. See, they had to endure 15 painful seconds of commercials every time just so they could watch a 15-second preview of the wave or surf spot they wanted to check. If they wanted to watch a little longer, then they’d have to watch the ads all over again. Now, the advertisements are a little sacrifice they were all willing to take that time if that means they don’t have to drive several kilometers to check the day’s swells. But now that the everyday glimpse of their favorite spots is gone, some of the surfers who can’t afford to pay the premium membership are forced to check the waves the old-school way — by walking to get to the beach before dawn so that they can alert their friends if the surf’s on or if they should just keep sleeping. How much does Surfline Premium cost? This brings us to our second topic, which is the price you have to pay to get the premium. In its first year, the Surfline Premium’s membership fee per annum is priced at only $69.99, which is a pretty good value considering its features during that time. But in 2020 (in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic), they sent an email to all their customers about a 35% price increase on the membership fee upon its renewal. Others have read the silent notification, while some unfortunate ones just saw that the new price has already been automatically billed to their account. The price gouging caught everyone off-guard, and it really left a bad taste in the people’s mouths. Currently, the Surfline Premium is priced at $95.88 annually or $7.99 monthly, with the account accessible to one user only. So here’s the million-dollar question — Are the new features worth your money? Let’s find out. Premium Features HD Cameras This feature is the most possible reason why surfers will pay the premium cost because there’s no doubt that Surfline has the best camera network amongst all surf forecast websites. Even the app makes it easy to watch the waves in high definition! With over 500 cameras in different surf destinations globally, checking the local tides and breaks from your bed is now made possible. You can also watch the waves from surfing-banned locations during the pandemic and relive those moments when you get to surf on them. Our favorite, of course, is that the live streaming comes without the ads. Watch the video below for some of Surfline’s camera rewind highlights. Long-Range Reports When it comes to surfing forecasts, most websites have a lot of hits and misses, and that’s totally normal. As we all know, nature can be really brutal and unpredictable (especially when you’re on the east coast). That said, any surf reports … Read more

The Best Surf Bands of All Time | Guide

April 19, 2023January 4, 2023 by Luke

Don’t you just love listening to those songs that evoke feelings and nostalgia from the good times you’ve had at the beach? As I currently listen to The Beach Boys’ famous hit song “Wouldn’t It Be Nice”, I’m instantly taken back to the post-surf session drinks with my buddies, the road trips, the sun’s heat, the wind… Man, those were some good days! Surf bands are part of our culture. Truth be told I think surfing overall wouldn’t be complete without those catchy tunes that sing about the endless summer days, beautiful girls, riding top-down, and chasing waves. Throughout my career, I’ve had my fair share of listening to different surf bands — from the oldies but goodies to the modern surf anthems that grommets hum while they wait in the lineup. In this article, I’ll share the best surf bands you’ll love listening to if you’re a fan of this music genre. The History of Surf Music Surf music, also known as surf rock or pop, is characterized by light tunes, electric guitar phrases, and drenched reverbs that mimic the sound of the ocean’s waves. It comes in two forms — the instrumental surf wherein you can hear the more distinguished sound of the electrical guitar, and the vocal surf wherein the the vocal harmonies are the main highlight. This music genre originated in the coasts of Southern California regions like San Diego and Orange County. It reached its peak in the early ‘60s when the Californian surf band ‘The Beach Boys’ introduced their music to the surfing crowd. After that, other surf bands followed suit. This music trend later on developed different forms such as surf pop, surf punk, surf rock, and hot rod rock. In 1964, however, the music careers of most bands in California ended when the British boy band ‘Beatles’ took over international charts. This event was also known as the ‘British Invasion’, or the nationwide spread of United Kingdom’s pop culture in the United States. Amongst all of the popular surf bands in the US during that period, only The Beach Boys were able to rival The Beatles in the US top charts. Best Surf Bands of All Time The Beach Boys may have paved the way for Californian surf music, but other successful surf bands have also created their mark in this genre. The Ventures If The Beach Boys is for vocals, then The Ventures is for surf instrumentals. Formed in Washington in 1958 by Don Wilson and Bob Bogle, this quartet popularized electric guitar and solo drum performances. Their breakthrough song “Walk, Don’t Run” inspired a lot of surfers to learn how to play the guitar in the ’60s; hence why they were also called ‘The Band that Launched a Thousand Bands’. One of The Ventures famous songs, “Wipe Out”, is a classic record that perfectly showcases Max Weinberg and Mel Taylor’s jaw-dropping drum skills. Perhaps the best part about it was the transition between their parts that’s just equally flawless and captivating. “Wipe Out” is a song that’s also featured in countless films and surf footage. In the midst of its popularity, this song was practically heard everywhere — in malls, high school pep rallies, and inside classrooms when the boys tried to beat its rhythm with their pens. And since The Ventures’ timeless music doesn’t have a language barrier, their songs not only dominated the United States but also Japan. In 1965, five of their songs reached the Top 10 singles in Japan’s charts. They’ve also sold over 110 million albums worldwide. This surf band may have underwent different phases throughout their career, but the fact remains that their music is one of the bests even until today. In 2008, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, meanwhile, the “Walk, Don’t Run” track was granted the Grammy Hall of Fame award. The Beach Boys Did you know that before they become the most celebrated and influential surf band in the United States, The Beach Boys only started out as a garage band? Formed in Hawthorne, California, The Beach Boys was characterized by their vocal harmonies combined with unconventional surf rock style. They’re also known to experiment with different music genres such as rock and roll, jazz, classic, and R&B. A lot of people were able to relate to The Beach Boys’ music because they perfectly represented the surfing culture and lifestyle of Californians in the ’60s — the beaches, the trips, the freedom, and the young romance. They began their successful career in 1963 when they topped the charts with their hit single titled, “Surfin’ U.S.A.”. Their success continued up until the British Invasion wherein they were known as The Beatles’ only rival as they dominated the international charts. But success comes with a lot of costs — and The Beach Boys was a proof of that. Members of this surf band have gone through a lot before they made it to the top. The Beach Boys’ main composer, Brian Wilson, suffered from mental illness, Dennis died young because of drowning, and all the Wilson kids suffered abuse from their father throughout their childhood and professional career. The Beach Boys’ history may have its highs and lows, but there’s no denying of the impact they’ve made in the surfing culture. They’ve sold over 100 million records worldwide. Thirty-six of their songs reached the Top 40 charts from when they started in the 1960s until 2010. They also have a total of 4 entries in the Top 100 charts — the most entries an American surf band has ever had. Finally, Rolling Stone hailed The Beach Boys as ‘One of the Greatest Artists of all Time’, and they were also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. Dick Dale & His Del Tones Before there were Jan and Dean and The Beach Boys, there’s Dick Dale & His Del Tones. This surf band is considered the first-ever surf band in the history, and … Read more

Surfing 5 Foot Waves | Risks and Tips

April 15, 2023January 4, 2023 by Luke

I don’t consider 5-foot waves as the biggest waves out there, nor do I think of them as the easiest to surf on. I suppose they’re the transition between ripping and dropping in — and while 5-foot waves do attract a lot of surfers, I know a lot of people who choose to stay away from them because they’re quite treacherous. Right now you might be thinking, “5-foot waves? Pfft… That ain’t much on Tourmaline!” Different surfing spots have various interpretations of wave heights. In some places, 5-foot waves are considered mellow, but in other surfing spots, 5-foot waves can drag you underwater with its rip currents and kill you if you’re not a pro. It’s a complicated topic, but in this article, I’ll teach you everything you need to know about surfing in 5-foot waves including its dangers and some beginner-friendly tips on how you can surf on them. What do 5-foot waves look like? The photo above will give you a ballpark of how high a 5-foot wave is; however, you should know that this scale differs from other surfing locations. Aside from that, they are also known in other terms such as knee, waist, chest, head high, overhead double, and triple. Hold up… that’s not even the end of it. There’s another measurement exclusively known amongst surfers called the Hawaiian or the Haleiwa scale wherein the 1 to 3 ft. overhead in most places is only considered as 3 to 4 ft. waves in Hawaii. In this famous surfing spot, 3-foot waves can easily snap board and break bones, while 5-foot waves mean death — sometimes, literally. There are a couple of reasons why the North Shore peeps have their own wave scale. Back in the days when California, Australia, and Hawaii are the only places famous for surfing, the Hawaiians would often downplay their wave size to the Californian surfers who visit their beach. When these non-local surfers get awestruck by their waves, the Hawaiians will say “Meh, they’re really not that big.” Another reason for this absurd scale is to avoid their lineups and beaches from getting too crowded. The North Shore lifeguards used to announce small wave sizes to limit the number of tourists coming for their surf breaks. And then there’s the ‘surfer modesty’ that plays a minor role in the Haleiwa scale. During the early days of surfing, the pros would try to trivialize their accomplishments by downplaying the sizes of the wave they successfully rode in. Until today, the surfer’s perspective of wave sizes is still stereotyped. If you’re not careful, you are at risk of being called a kook if you mistakenly identify a wave bigger than how the other surfers see it. 5-foot waves vary from spot to spot, and it also depends on different surfers’ perspectives. With that said, you need to rely on your best judgment and abilities to figure out if you can surf big waves as such. Surfing 5-Foot Waves Perhaps the reason why you’re here is you’re a beginner who frequently surfs on low waves and is now up for more challenging rides. You could be searching for tips on how to ride the 5-foot waves. Or you could also be looking for the last straw of hope and motivation to continue chasing such difficult waves. 5-foot waves or bigger are hard to come by. So on days when they occur, beginners stay back to the shore to drink their morning coffee while hardcore surfers finally get in the water to get some stoke on. On these rare occasions, the waves are hollow and barrels are better. There’s also less crowd in the lineup because only a few people are able to ride these waves. Surfing Tips Being a beginner who is about to try surfing on 5-foot waves or higher can be nerve-wracking. But unless you’re 100% fully adapted to surfing smaller waves, I suggest you stick with 1 to 2 feet waves first before making the jump. The sea will let you know when you’re ready — if the water wiped you out and you can’t get back up to your board, take that as a sign to swim back to the shore and surf with smaller waves first. Now, if you’ve tried surfing on a 5-foot wave before, you’d know that dropping in on them is as difficult as catching them. They can go by so fast without even giving you a chance to drop in. So to increase your chances, you need to know how to read waves. Look at the horizon before going into the water. You must position yourself to the part where you think you’ll be able to catch the most waves. Since 5-foot waves move fast and riding down their face needs the right momentum, you don’t have the luxury of time to second guess if you will drop in or back out last minute. If you want to catch that wave, you need to commit to the drop as soon as you see it coming towards you. Don’t back out last minute because it’s dangerous and you may injure other surfers if you lose your board in the event of a wipeout. Determine if the wave is too big for you, and if it is, it’s best to get back to the shore and just sit it out. Being an excellent swimmer and paddler also plays a role because big waves move faster than small ones. If you move slow, then you won’t be able to pop out and drop in at the right moment. Of course, the key to becoming better at paddling is to paddle more, and for smoother pop-outs, do inclined push-ups and practice popping up prone from the floor. Another beginner-friendly tip when it comes to surfing bigger waves is to choose the right size and volume of your surfboard. These will depend on your weight and the location where you’ll be surfing. Also, surfboards with a straight … Read more

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