The Basics of Surfing: Surfboards, Techniques and Wave Types

Here are the basics of surfing: surfboards, surfing techniques and types of waves.

The Basics of Surfing

A. Surfboards

1. Types of Surfboards:

   • Longboard:

     • Longer and more stable, ideal for beginners and classic style surfing.

   • Shortboard:

     • Shorter and more maneuverable, used for advanced tricks and quick turns.

   • Fish:

     • Wide and short, great for smaller waves and smooth rides.

   • Funboard:

     • Hybrid between longboard and shortboard; good for intermediate surfers.

2. Surfboard Materials:

   • Foam (Soft-top):

     • Great for beginners due to safety and buoyancy.

   • Fiberglass:

     • Traditional material offering performance and flexibility.

   • Epoxy:

     • Lightweight and durable; ideal for beginners and modern board designs.

B. Surfing Techniques

1. Paddling:

   • Moving the board forward using arm strokes while lying down.

2. Popping Up:

   • The motion of quickly standing from a paddling position to a surfing stance.

3. Carving:

   • Smooth, controlled turns on the face of the wave.

4. Duck Diving:

   • Pushing the board under an oncoming wave to get through the surf zone.

C. Types of Waves

1. Wave Breaks:

   • Beach Breaks:

     • Waves that break over sandy bottoms; usually more forgiving and changeable.

   • Reef Breaks:

     • Break over coral or rock formations; often more powerful and dangerous.

   • Point Breaks:

     • Break around a headland or rocky point, creating long and predictable rides.

2. Wave Conditions:

   • Swell:

     • The energy that generates waves; affected by distant storms.

   • Tides:

     • The rise and fall of sea levels that change wave shapes and rideability.

   • Wind:

     • Offshore winds are ideal (hold waves up); onshore winds usually make waves choppy.