What does air or “aerial” mean?
An air, or aerial is a maneuver in which a surfer launches completely out of the water. Getting airborne.
Stick Man getting his fins out in the open
You might also hear airs referred to as boosting or “getting fins out”.
It’s a highly advanced move that requires loads of experience with reading waves as much as awesome physical ability. Check out Gabriel Medina or John John Florence – two of the young guns on the pro surf tour – they’re masters of throwing stunning airs.
Check out the surf slang page for more lingo.
