Surfing etiquette to always keep in mind

Surfing Etiquette Anouk Govil

It’s imperative for any beginning surfer to learn the rules of the sport. This is essentially to ensure that misunderstanding, accidents, and injuries are avoided. Hereunder is a set of guidelines for all surfers, a list of dos and don’ts to remember while in the water.

First and foremost, make sure you understand the fundamental right-of-way rule. Which is that the surfer closest to the wave’s peak will always have the priority. If you find yourself paddling for a right-hand wave but another surfer is on your left side, you must relent and give him or her the priority.

In relation to right of way, always paddle wide and not through the peak. If you notice a fellow surfer already following his surf line, you’ve to stay in the water if you get caught inside. Moreover, keep in mind that the surfer who’s farthest out in the water will always get the priority. It’s best to avoid calling priority in waves in the first place. Follow the unspoken rule of conduct mentioned above.

Never drop in. As a surfing tenet, it’s one person to one wave. Again, not abiding by the right-of-way rule is a sign of utter disrespect of a fellow surfer. You are in the water to enjoy surfing, not make enemies by taking over their territory. What’s more, dropping in may lead not just to damaged boards but all sorts of injuries.

A lot of new surfers think that snaking is normal, but it is actually very disrespectful, especially in crowded surfing conditions. Simply paddle your way to the peak and don’t work your way around other surfers who’ve established priority. There’s literally plenty of waves to go by, so be patient and wait for your turn.