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Surf in Style
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You’re off to the gorgeous beaches of Hawaii, Fiji or Australia. You’ve packed the perfect bikini, plenty of sunscreen and are anticipating the laid-back lifestyle . When you arrive, the “hang loose” attitude and glistening waves entice you to try surfing. Clayton Vance, adrenaline junkie and H2O expert, gives us some basic tips to help us blend in with the pros.
The Board- Rent a board at your destination from a local surf shop or arrange to get one with your hotel.
- Start off with a “long board” which is a easier to pop-up [stand] on. Most of the staff at the rental places are willing to help, but to give you an example, if you are 5’6 start off with an 8’ board.
- If you have the opportunity, start with a sponge board. They’re lighter, you don’t have to wax it, it won’t hurt if you get hit in the head and you usually won’t need a rash guard with it.
Prep- Wear a bikini that doesn’t wash off easily. Select something you can move around easily in and won’t be distracted by straps falling off or strings coming undone. Boy short bottoms are great for modesty and practicality, but are still hot.
- Comfort over style always wins here. Don’t worry about dressing to impress because you’ll usually look like you’re trying too hard. There are a lot of cool women’s surf brands out there.
- Keep all of your valuables at home or in your hotel. I’ve had plenty of stuff stolen at beaches. Even consider wheel-welling your keys.
- If you have sensitive skin or think you might get a little cold, a rash guard is great. They also help keep your bikini top on and shade you a little from the sun.
- If you are in colder water, I really recommend renting a wetsuit. And, definitely wear a rash guard underneath it for protection against skin irritation.
- Apply lots and lots of sunscreen. Make sure and reapply every few hours and whenever you come in to shore for a break. A bad sunburn will ruin your trip. Trust me, I know.
- Bring along a ton of water, some snacks for fuel, a towel and a change of clothes for the way back. I know a lot of women like to change into a loose, casual sundress. Something lightweight and relaxed.
- Make sure you drink lots of water before you get in the water.
Ready to Ride- Ask the people you rented the board from where some good beginner beaches are.
- I really suggest a lesson for first time riders. You learn some quick tricks that will make your time a lot more enjoyable. They’ll help you “position” on the board before entering the water, how to catch a wave, etc.
- Figure out if you stand Orthodox (right foot forward, left back) or Regular (left foot forward right back) before you enter the water. One of the tricks is to stand up straight on sand and have a friend push you from behind. Whichever foot you step out on first will be your “forward” foot when you stand on the board.
- Attach the leash to your “back” leg before you get in the water.
- Stretch your arms, shoulders, back and legs. Make sure you stretch afterwards as well.
- Talk to local life guards regarding rip tide patterns, where heavy currents are, etc. Then, stay away from those areas.
Surfing Etiquette- Stay out of the way of locals which are usually groups of surfers. Certain beaches and countries are very territorial about their beaches.
- If someone starts paddling the wave before you, pull out.
- The person closest to the breaking point of the wave has the right-away.
- In a nutshell, try and stay away from people. It will keep everyone a bit safer.
Keeping Safe- Always check with your doctor before attempting surf.
- Be careful and aware of the fins on your board. They can give you a nasty cut.
- Always go with a partner.
- Your arms and shoulders will get tired first. So make sure you reserve enough strength to paddle or ride back in to shore.
- Don’t surf on yellow or red flag days. If you don’t know, ask the life guard.
- Stay away from piers, large waves and reefs. If you happen to get cut on a reef seek medical attention. Some reef cuts can lead to infections.
The Locale- California has colder water and the waves are not as hollow and tend to peek and crash quickly.
- Hawaii, Australia, Fiji, and other tropical locations have warmer water, large waves, reefs and tend to have more “rollers.”
- Florida has warmer water and smaller waves. A good place for beginners.
Guest Writer:
Clayton Vance, Adrenaline Junkie
Favorite beach, island or coastal city: Monte Carlo. A great Formula 1 track, beautiful beaches and a cool atmosphere.
Travel must-haves: My I-pod.
Favorite beauty tips: Lots of sleep, and always wear lip balm. Women love smooth lips.
A crazy adventure: Saving a Winston Cup Stock Car from crashing into the wall on a race track. I went into turn 4 at 140 mph and I had a blowout. The car headed straight for the wall. I kept the car off the wall and safely guided it to the shoulder.
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