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and Surfers out there want to give advice for beginner?

A

anonymouschris

Diamond Member
Looking to pick up surfing for fun. I live in SF, and advice on what to look for in a surfboard and wetsuite? probably going to buy used on Craigslist.

thanks in advance.
 
1. google
2. watch surfing accident videos
3. watch shark attack videos (in SF 😀)
4. decide that retailing in clam chowder is tastier and more profitable
5. discover that lobsters are even more lucrative and tasty
6. profit!
7. grow a desert lobster farm
 
I would recommend calling around to your local surf shops and getting a few lessons before you invest any money into this. They will be able to tell you the difference between boards, what each will/wont do for you, and can rent you different sized boards so you can get a feel for each and what it is that you prefer.

g/l
 
Surfing at either Ocean or Baker beach is dangerous for noobs. Wear a buoy. Though I will not guarantee you not get suck into deeper water and drown.
 
<Obligatory paddle surfing plug goes here>

Don't spend too much money right off. Used board is definitely a good idea. A longer board will probably suit you better for just learning.

Learn the rules of the road. That article is from a paddle surfing site, but we adhere to the same rules as our standing cousins....probably even more so since a 40-pound boat is more dangerous than an 8-pound surfboard

It's frustrating at first; keep at it and don't give up!
 
Some random tips in no particular order:
  • Know how to swim.
  • If you don't want to seek out lessons, I would recommend a long board if you're just starting out. 9'+ should do. If you weight more, you can go longer. Buy used if you can, it will save you some cash. They're the easiest to sit on between sets, to get started when trying to catch a wave, and stand on when you do. They're the clumsiest and most cumbersome but will be less frustrating when just learning.
  • One important thing to learn is how to turn the board when you're waiting in the water. It involves lifting the nose up off the surface to about 45 deg. and using your hands and feet to point yourself in the right direction. Don't lie on the board and try to turn yourself because you'll never do it fast enough.
  • NEVER be parallel to an oncoming wave.
  • Learn how to "turtle". When a wave you can't catch has already broken, face the wave directly and go under it by flipping the board upside down while you're still holding on. When the wave passes, right yourself. This mostly applies to long boards as you can just duck dive a gun.
  • Try to go with a buddy if you can.
  • Try not be be alone out there.
  • If someone already has the point, don't drop in on em.
  • When the wave is done or you want to get off, the easiest way to stop is to just fall off or maybe sit back down and let your legs drag in the water. Learn how to kick-out later.
  • Don't forget the leash.
  • Don't give up if you don't catch a wave the first time out.
  • I have no clues about wetsuits as I've never needed one here.

Good luck!
 
Lessons in surfing are msotly a waste of time, IMO. It's something that requires practice in the water. Looking like an idiot jumping up onlt your board on the beach won't help you in the water. There are a few pointers that a beginner would be well-advised to follow, but to get that information, you just need a friend to go with you once.

Get a longobard. They're easier to paddle, and more stable. They're also more expensive, but you'll have a much more enjoyable experince on one than a shortboard. A shortboard is like the racecar of the surfing world. It's built totally for performance and not suited to beginners.

Don't cheap out on a wetsuit. Get a 4/3 or thinker suit if you're going to be surfing around SF, the water is cold. Getting a wetsuit that fits properly and is comfortable will make the difference between being cold and chafed, or warm and comfortable. Also: get a rashguard, your neck and armpits will thank you for it. Finally: don't wear shorts under your wetsuit, it's uncomfortable and makes you looks stupid. If you insist on wearing something under it, get a speedo.

If you're looking for some more beginner friendly places around SF, try Pacifica or Half Moon Bay.
 
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