Step-by-Step Breakdown
Vertical Approach
Come off the bottom turn with as much vertical speed as possible. Aim for the steepest part of the lip.
Rotation
Just before hitting the lip, rotate your shoulders and head back down towards the beach. Your board will follow your upper body.
Push the Tail
As the nose clears the lip, push hard on your back foot to slide the tail out. This releases the fins and creates the "snap" and spray.
Recovery
Center your weight back over the board as the fins re-engage. Look down the line to set up your next move.
Fast-track with coaching
Video analysis or a water session can clean up rail work, cutbacks, and speed generation faster than trial and error.
Find local coachesPro tips
- Speed is critical. No speed = no snap.
- Don't be gentle. It's an aggressive maneuver.
- Keep your front arm low to pivot around it.
Ready to put this in the water?
Book a lesson with a local coach or surf school, then match your board to your level.