Surf Wear 4

Surf Guide - Introduction

Pages: Introduction | Safety Advice | How to Surf | Surf Breaks | Surf Boards

Introduction
If you are interested in learning to surf then here is a complete guide to everything we think you'll need to know to get you started and to ensure your development into a well rounded and proficient surfer! This information will help those of you who are learning to surf and need to know why, where and how to get started and all the equipment and techniques required.
If there is anything you can't find within this info then you can contact us at surfingguide@bigwednesdaysurf.com and we'll answer any of your questions ASAP. Other alternatives are to phone us on 01326 317838 and speak to one of our experts, or alternatively chat with other surfers in our forum, just simply post a question and wait for the response!

Why Surf?
Ask any surfer why they surf and you'd get a number of wide ranging answers, from: it's their entire life, to those who just go when on holiday in the sun. However to a vast majority it is because they just can't find anything else like it. Many will snowboard, wakeboard and take part in a number of different sports. Most will agree these just don't compare to the sport that incorporates harnessing the power of nature in its most pure and natural state into what can only be describes as exhilarating, thought provoking and in its most simple form, the best fun you can have!

How to get started
Just like many other sports the best way to learn is to get involved! Learning with friends is one of the best ways, ideally friends that are also learning as you can progress together and look out for each other. The main reason though is that its a hell of a lot of fun watching your mates wiping out. So get yourself kitted out either renting or buying equipment and get out there! Another good option is find a surf school as they can provide all the equipment you'll need and you can learn from the experts, and avoid picking up bad habits.

Where to Start Surfing
Be honest with yourself from the start. If you are an outright beginner then you want a nice easy break to learn on. To find the right break for you either do some research on the internet on web sites such as Wannasurf, which will give a description on the majority of surf spots in the UK. Another option is to go into your local surf shop and ask where a good beginners break is, but don't exaggerate your abilities!
In general the best breaks for beginners are beach breaks that break over sand as they by and large offer a nice wave closer to the shore for learning. However some are still dangerous. Avoid beach breaks where the wave is picking up and breaking violently, where the drop in is very steep and makes learning almost impossible and even though you're on a sand bar, it can be quite painful!
Remember the waves you first surf don't need to be very good. You don't even need the actual wave, the white water will suffice to begin with whilst you master popping up (How to Stand Up) and how to steer the board. Also the competition for white water is far less than that of the actual waves and will mean you can get more time on the board to practice and so progress much quicker.

Equipment
We wouldn't recommend you go straight out and buy your own kit before you have tried surfing, so rent for the first few times you go and once you have come to the conclusion, which were sure you will, that surfing is amazing, then go and get yourself kitted out. Before you do, get some background info which you can then take with you into a surf shop to ensure you get the right kit for the right price!