Surfing is one of the most exciting sports out there. Suitable for everyone, including adrenaline junkies, it offers a great way to have fun and show your skills. Surfers fight waves in style while performing unique maneuvers that not only show their skills but also their big hearts.
In this article, we’ll talk about some of the most daring maneuvers in surfing.
Let’s get started:
#1 Snap
Also called slash, the snap is a very popular surfing maneuver that is usually only performed by experienced surfers. The stunning move involves the surfer moving from a bottom turn up to the top of the wave at an angle of 30 to 50 degrees.
Snap can take a while to perfect but is worth the effort. It creates a spectacular and flashy spray of water above the surfer when performed abruptly.
The move can be performed only when the wave is right. The key lies in finding a steep wave and performing your best possible bottom turn. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:
- Get ready when you see a suitable wave.
- Push the board to face the wave.
- Once you reach the wave’s crest, quickly raise your arms while turning your shoulders toward the wave. At the same time, use your back leg to push away from the board.
#2 Tube Ride
Though not very daring, this is one of the most well-known surfing moves. Known for being aesthetically pleasing, this impressive move involves covering yourself with the curl’s lip while riding the hollow part of the wave.
Some might find this maneuver easy but it’s not always possible as finding suitable waves can be hard. Also, maintaining the position can be quite challenging. You’ll have to remain at the center of your board so that you do not get thrown off.
#3 Rodeo Flip
This snowboarding inspired maneuver is a combination of flipping and spinning. This daring move should only be tried when the waves are not wild as it can be risky.
Invented by Kelly Slater, this move requires practice and is not suitable for beginners. The key lies in finding the right wave and catching the air so you spin and flip your board. Moreover, you must make sure to land on the wave and not lose your balance.
#4 Aerial/air
Here’s another aesthetically pleasing surfing maneuver. An interesting bit about aerial maneuvers is that there are no rules. You can do anything and earn praise. Some of the most popular tricks involve launching off the lip and landing on the wave’s face.
Aerial tricks require expertise and a good understanding of the waves. Getting enrolled in a San Diego surf school can be a great way to learn to gauge waves. You will get a chance to improve your surfing skills and learn a variety of maneuvers under the guidance of expert instructors at a San Diego surf school.
We suggest that you start trying tricks only when you are comfortable on the board. Also, remember to start with something easy before moving to a hard move.