Learning to surf can be one of the most thrilling and fulfilling activities you’ll ever do in your life, yet it can be daunting to start out. Surfing is an intricate sport with many unspoken rules of surfing etiquette you should abide by in order to enjoy yourself safely on the water.
One of the key rules is knowing who has priority when it comes to catching waves, particularly for beginners. Although this can be challenging, remember that those closer to the break have priority over those further out. Regardless of where you go surfing, from Mexico to Asia, here are the surfing etiquette rules you have to respect.
Learn the Basics
Beginners new to surfing should seek professional instruction as the best way to learn. A lesson can help ensure your safety and knowledge on how to utilize equipment correctly.
Surf etiquette should also be covered, including following right of way rules and being respectful towards other surfers. Following these regulations helps everyone stay safe, making their experience all the more enjoyable for all involved.
Another essential tip for improving surfing performance is practicing paddling technique and the pop-up, the process of standing up on your surfboard from its prone position. Doing this will enable you to catch more waves and enhance performance overall.
Read the Ocean and Waves
Surfing requires learning to read both the ocean and waves accurately, which requires patience and observation – however, in the end it will pay dividends!
First and foremost, take note of swell size and tide conditions – these two variables can significantly impact how and where a wave breaks.
Step two is learning to identify good waves. Look at their curves and taper, too much curve may mean a closeout but just the right combination could create the ideal wave to surf.
Don’t Get in Other People’s Way
No matter whether paddling out or riding the wave, be aware of other surfers in the water. Respect is essential when in the water – particularly other surfers. A simple sorry, head nod or wave gesture could go a long way toward building goodwill between surfers and one another.
Dropping in on another surfer (i.e. taking their wave without their permission), and snake-riding — that is rowing around other surfers to catch the same waves — is considered one of the biggest breaches in surfing etiquette and can make other surfers extremely angry. Furthermore, this practice may cause collisions and injuries due to close quarters.
Don’t Paddle Out in the Main Lineup
If you’re surfing in a crowded spot, try not to paddle out too close to the main lineup; otherwise a missed wave and someone crashing in could cause serious accidents.
Wait for a lull between sets before paddling out to avoid accidentally colliding into other surfers who are already riding waves. Additionally, stay wide when paddling out to avoid “dropping in”, which is considered rude behavior.
Stay on the Shoulder
No matter where you surf – main lineup or shoulder – be wary that the peak of the wave does not lie behind you; otherwise it would be considered poor form to take off in front of those riding it and could prove dangerous.
Beginners often fail to catch waves due to not paddling out far enough. As your surfing improves, however, it becomes essential that your paddle out further as your muscles strengthen over time – this will allow more waves to come your way and expedite progression faster.
Communicate with the Other Surfers
Simple gestures like nodding your head or giving a wave can go a long way towards relieving tension and creating an enjoyable surf session. If you make any errors that violate surfing etiquette, apologize immediately – anyone’s mistakes shouldn’t go unpunished.
Respect is especially crucial when visiting a new surfing spot and meeting locals, while treating your surfing buddies with respect – remember, everyone was once an amateur surfer! Furthermore, refrain from littering on the beach and always pick up after yourself; one plastic bag can have devastating effects on marine life; show kindness towards both nature and your fellow surfers for optimal surfing results!
