If there is one thing to say about surfing is that it is a great equaliser. No matter how cool, calm and collected we are on land, the ocean will soon humble the best of us. No one is able to surf immediately, it is a bit of a process learning the art of surfing, and you will fall, fall and fall again!
So in the meantime, whilst you have the fun of figuring out how to balance on your board, here are a few tips to help you look good along the way:
1- Surfboard
Do get the right board for your ability. No one will be impressed if you attempt to ride a short or longboard that you can’t control. Far better that you have a board such as a mini-mal that will enable you to have the stability needed as you learn to surf. However, also don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. It’s great fun playing on a longboard, getting easy rides; or giving duck dives a go with a lightweight shortboard.
2- Wetsuit & BoardshortsDon’t just wear boardies or a wetsuit because you think it looks good. Getting the right wetsuit for the water temperature means extra time in the surf, plus more freedom of movement. The thicker the wetsuit, the warmer but also often the less mobility you have in the surf. No one cares about whether you have the latest gear, or that you are in boardshorts when everyone else is still in their spring suit… The question is whether you are comfortable and the right temperature in the water.
3- WaxSo you are by the water’s edge, right surfboard, right wetsuit… essential to success is the right wax. Do invest that couple of euros in getting quality surf wax that is the correct softness for the water temperature. Even if you have all the right equipment without the right wax you won’t be able to stay on your surfboard paddling, let along stand up and ride a wave.
4- LimitsOne of the best bits of advice that can be given is do know your limits. You have nothing to prove, so don’t be afraid to give surfing a go, but also don’t feel like you need to paddle for waves that you don’t feel confident in yet. It all takes time, and the beauty of surfing is that it will always teach you something, even if that is to just play in the shallows and chuck yourself into the whitewater for a while. Coming away from any surf session with a smile can’t be beaten by anything.