Surf lingo and terminology

9 October, 2023

Surf lingo and terminology are forms of slang used by surfers to describe certain aspects of the sport.

Knowing surf terminology is crucial because it is the vocabulary of seasoned surfers. Surfers may communicate with one another more effectively and comprehend how to move around the surf area by using the correct vocabulary. Because surfers can readily communicate with one another about the many circumstances they could experience while out on the sea, it also helps to maintain safety. Among seasoned surfers, speaking the jargon well adds credibility.

Common terms include:

Barrel: A tube-like wave with the surfer traveling inside the tube. The waveform has a hollow tube shape, allowing the surfer to travel inside it. It is a difficult maneuver, requiring skill and timing, but the reward of traveling inside a tube is often the highlight of a surfer's ride.

Catch a Wave: When a surfer successfully stands up on a wave and rides it, it is the most fundamental part of surfing and the goal of every surfer. This can be done by paddling into a wave, then popping up onto your feet and riding the wave as it carries you.

Cutback: A maneuver when a surfer turns sharply on the face of the wave to change direction. Cutbacks are used to change direction and create a curved line on the wave. To perform a cutback, the surfer turns their board and body so they cut back to the power source of the wave.

Hang Ten: A maneuvre when a surfer walks their toes to the tip of the surfboard. This is a difficult maneuvre that requires skill and balance. It is also a sign of surfing prowess, as it shows that the surfer is confident and comfortable on their board. To perform a hang ten, the surfer stands up on the board and then walks their toes to the tip of the board. This requires balance and coordination and is a very impressive maneuvre.

Kook: A novice or beginner surfer. A kook is a surfer who is new to the sport and does not have the skills or knowledge to surf proficiently. Kooks can often be seen making rookie mistakes and can be a hazard to other surfers in the water. Kooks are usually not respected by more experienced surfers and can be seen as a nuisance in the water.

Swell: A large wave that forms in the ocean, often due to storms or other disturbances in the ocean. Swells are typically larger than normal waves and can travel long distances. Swells can be created by strong winds and storms and can be felt and seen in the ocean. Swells provide great waves for surfers and can be a great source of fun and adventure.

Tube: A tube is a hollow tube-like wave, with the surfer traveling inside the tube. Riding the tube is difficult to master, requiring skill and timing, but the reward of traveling inside a tube is often the highlight of a surfer's life. To enter the tube, the surfer must paddle into the wave, pop up onto their feet, and then steer the board into the tube. The surfer then travels inside the tube for as long as the wave and skill level permits. The tube may or may not close completely, offering a unique and thrilling experience for the surfer.

For more information on surf lingo - please check out our Surf Lingo e-book.