How To Read A Wave
Jey, surf coach and owner of Newquay surf school Cornish Wave, sent over his guide for how to read waves.
Stay or Go?
The Yes/No part really hits the nail on the head for me, though I come at it from a slightly different angle.
I ask myself:
Am I going to surf this wave?
Yes: start paddling for the best area to take off from.
No: sit in a safe area or start paddling to get over the wave/prepare to duck dive or turtle roll.
To start with this was an active thought process. Over time I’ve found I habitually ask myself for every wave that approaches.
How to Read Waves
It’s a lot to take in, but this guide contains a load of really useful tips.
Take a look, try to remember one or two key points and keep coming back to this page.
Awesome article, being able to read waves is undoubtedly one of the most difficult skills to master in surfing, but thanks to your wise steps above, it sounds easier. But, honestly, the way you approach waves changes from wave to wave, day to day, and surf break to surf break. However, I feel that only time and experience can get you to know when you should paddle for a wave or skip it.
Most useful and easy blog I have read about surfing so far.
Thank you for having the balls to write it