Step-by-Step Breakdown
Find the Pocket
The steepest part of the wave, right near the breaking curl, holds the most power. This is where you want to be.
Set Your Line
Engage your inside rail slightly. Aim your board horizontally across the wave face, staying in the top third (the "High Line").
Weight Distribution
Shift your weight slightly forward to engage the flatter rocker of the board. This reduces drag and increases speed.
Adjust
If you're going too fast and outrunning the wave, step back or turn down. If you're stalling, step forward or climb higher.
Book a surf lesson
A coach can spot what you cannot feel — late takeoffs, stiff stance, or reading the wrong section. One session often fixes weeks of solo practice.
Find surf coachesPro tips
- Don't look down at the water; look down the line.
- Keep your arms quiet. Flailing arms ruin your trim.
- On a longboard, this is the first step to noseriding.
Ready to put this in the water?
Book a lesson with a local coach or surf school, then match your board to your level.