Sports Men

Let’s first establish what defines “surfing.” It is a surface water sport in which the surfer rides a board on the crest of a wave in the direction of the shoreline. Unless you are properly prepared for this ultimate recreational activity, take caution when attempting to surf. Surfing, a Polynesian tradition, has been recognized for centuries. Its origin dates back to 1767 in Tahiti. Over the years, the thrill of surfing has become widespread worldwide. Stores like Oakley and PacSun have jumped on the wave to provide surfing gear and necessities you can’t live without.

Equipment

Equipment is key to surfing success. Stand-up surfing can be longboarding or shortboarding. The decision of which works best for you is determined by board length and your riding style.

To comfortably survive the year round climate and water temperature changes, a neoprene wetsuit is your best defense, most commonly found in basic black. When braving cold water, a full suit of 6 mm thickness is irreplaceable. Once the water temperature is in the mid 60′s, you can use a spring suit of lighter weight. Warmer water temperatures, above the 60′s, only require wetsuit pieces for your personal comfort, a top, a vest or shorts.Weather

Here in the United States, surfing is most popular in California, Florida and Hawaii for obvious climate related reasons. If you want a true full year surfing life, get ready to travel to an exotic destination. There are always lists of “the best of the best” and the surfing destinations have been relatively consistent.

Here are the top 10 destinations where you should book your next surfing vacation: Gold Coast, Australia, Mentawai Islands, Indonesia, Jeffreys Bay, South Africa, Fuerteventura, Spain, El Salvador, Costa Rica, California and North America. If you are a beginner in this exciting surfing culture, think about attending a surf school or surf camp to get started. Most of these ultimate destinations offer expert instruction. You can also head to northern California’s Mavericks for huge winter waves, often over 25 feet after a winter storm. Surf Santa Cruz or Malibu, California for great but much tamer waves.

Safety First

Regardless of where in the world you choose to surf or what time of year, be sure to watch the weather. It can sometimes be unpredictable and can quickly change the ocean dynamics and swell size. Surf to your experience level, and don’t take unskilled chances. If you get caught in an unexpected rip current, paddle across it, not against it.

If you are in a region that has experiences significant rainfall, stay out of the water for 72 hours. Rainfall causes ocean bacteria levels to rise and can cause illness. Hypothermia is always a threat when you are engaged in water sports. Be sure to wear the proper wetsuit protection, regardless of where you catch your next wave.

Always use a surfboard leash, regardless of the conditions or your experience. Not only can you be injured by a wayward board, but other surfers can too. Follow surfing etiquette; stick to your own wave and don’t jump on someone else’s wave. Have fun!