Keeping your Backpack Safe
Do you surf alone and leave a backpack or other items on the beach. From time to time we all do and it can be pretty risky. We all get distracted and there is no way we can watch our stuff on the beach and focus on surfing at the same time. Surfers are prime subjects for theft because we often drop backpacks on the beach and rush into the water to start surfing. Continue reading to find out a trick to prevent becoming a victim in theft……
When out in a lineup it can often be difficult to see out backpack or bag to ensure no one is taking anything from it. To deter someone from taking items from your bag cover it with your towel. This deters people from taking stuff and prevents them from seeing your backpack. This is just one way to protect your personal belongings.
Heated Wetsuits
With more advanced and in turn warmer wetsuits the prices continue to rise. The major debate is whether the higher prices are worth the product which you are getting. Some wetsuit manufactures have been testing and constructing heated wetsuits. These wetsuits can keep you warm in most any conditions, yet they do come with a price that is more than many surfers prefer to spend. But if you can find the extra money and plan on going to surf in the most extreme conditions than go for it.
Retro Surfboards
In all aspects of the world, retro is making a comeback. But what is considered “retro”? Is it something from the past or a new trend which reminds people of something of the past. Retro is definitely coming back for surfing. Look on the board racks of your surf shop. Look at the new and poplar board shorts. Right now it is a Ride anything; wear anything era.
Retro surfboards are becoming more and more popular as many people downsize their quivers. This is because retro boards are more versatile. Paddle into most line-ups and you will see at least one fish, single fin or classic longboard. The reason for this is because retro boards are often loose and offer a look into the past. My favorite retro board to ride is a twin keel fin fish.
Know your Limits
Every year hundreds of beach goers and surfers go into surf conditions which are past their limits and boundaries. This puts lifeguard’s and their lives at risk. I have seen this countless times before and I cringe every time I know that someone is going to be a rescuer for a lifeguard. An example of this is when California gets a strong south swell. The swell usually brings long lulls in between sets. This is when inexperienced get in trouble. They often are in the impact zone right when a big set comes.
Knowing your limits is essential to your well being and safety. It is not right to put a lifeguard’s life at risk to come rescue you in strong and rough surf. Knowing and stopping at your limits is nothing to be embarrassed about. It is actually very smart. Even I have limits and there have been days that I have gone to the beach, but never went in because I was not up for the long paddle and even longer hold downs. We all have those days when it just isn’t worth it. After saying that you should always push yourself to surf bigger waves if it is safe.
So you might be wondering how to train for big waves and increase your limits. The best thing to do is practice swimming long distances and swimming the length of a pool underwater (25 Meters). This will expand you lung capacity and endurance. When swimming underwater for long distances always make sure someone is watching you to make sure you do not black out underwater. Safety is key and knowing your limits will keep you safe.
Staying warm when surfing in the winter
Surfing in the winter can be a test of a surfers dedication to the sport and tolerance of cold water. It is not pleasant and sometimes down right extreme. Sometimes winter rewards surfers with great waves and other times there are no waves.
There are many tricks and tips to staying warm and avoid hypothermia. Some of these tips are expensive such as an expensive and thick heated wetsuit. However, my favorite and free trick is “Stay Active – Stay Warm” By staying active you will stay warmer. So when it is cold stay active by catching a lot of waves or moving around the line-up. Staying warm will also keep you from cramping. The real trick to enjoying a cold winter surf session is to stay warm and active.
-
TSM T-Shirts
