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Surfing Jargon: Understanding surfing Terms
Surfing, like many sports, has its own unique language. If you're a follower of Stoked Surf School's Instagram, you'll notice in Julian's surf reports some terms you may not be familiar with - this is surf jargon! Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting out with some surf lessons, understanding the lingo can enhance your experience and help you communicate more effectively with fellow surfers. This language will even help when you're far from your regular spot!
In this post, we’ve compiled a list of essential surfing jargon to help you get acquainted with the terms and phrases you'll hear out in the waves. From the basics to more advanced terminology, this guide will ensure you’re well-versed in the language of the surf.
Surfing Jargon Terms (and definitions)
Aerial
A manoeuvre where the surfer and board leave the face of the wave and re-enter.
Barrel
The hollow part of the wave that forms when it breaks, ideal for tube riding.
Beach Break
Waves that break over a sandy seabed, much like our own Perranporth beach.
Big Kahuna
A slang term for an especially important or influential person in surfing, such as Kelly Slater, Laird Hamilton or Cornwall's own Ben Skinner.
Bottom Turn
The first turn at the bottom of the wave, crucial for setting up the next manoeuvre.
Carve
A powerful, controlled turn on the wave’s face.
Closeout
When a wave breaks all at once instead of peeling, making it unrideable.
Cutback
A manoeuvre where the surfer turns back towards the breaking part of the wave.
Drop In
Taking off on a wave in front of another surfer who has the right of way. This is unbelievably bad surfing etiquette and can upset a few people - remember to be nice!
Duck Dive
A technique to sink the board underwater to pass through an oncoming wave.
Face
The open, unbroken part of a wave.
Floater
A manoeuvre where the surfer rides up and over the top of a breaking wave.
Foamies
Soft surfboards used for beginners. Buoyant and forgiving, these types of surfboards are what we use at Stoked Surf School for our lessons.
Goofy Foot
Surfing with the right foot forward.
Green Room
The inside of a barrel.
Grom
A young or inexperienced surfer. the naming inspiration behind our "Grom Squad" programme, teaching kids how to surf and be safe in the water.
Hang Ten
Riding a longboard with both feet placed on the nose.
Lineup
The area where surfers wait for waves.
Lip
The top edge of the breaking wave.
Offshore Wind
Wind blowing from land to sea, holding waves up and making them cleaner.
Onshore Wind
Wind blowing from the sea to land, making waves choppy.
Point Break
Waves that bend along a rocky headland. These waves aren't suitable for beginners, but we also have a point break in Perranporth at Droskyn Point.
Reef Break
Waves that form over reefs, cobblestones, or rocks. Whilst they can consistently create good-shaped waves, they can be unpredictable due to the shallowness of the water.
Regular Foot
Opposite to "Goofy", if you surf with your left foot forward, you're riding "regular".
Pop Up
The movement from lying on the board to standing up. If you're able to do this, you'll be on Orange in The Loop - Our unique surfing ability measure.
Set
A group of waves that come in succession.
Shaka
A hand gesture commonly used by surfers to signify ‘hang loose’ or ‘everything’s cool’.
Stoked
Our favourite term here at Stoked Surf School. It means that you're feeling excited or enthusiastic - a common feeling after a great surf session.
Swell
The collection of waves generated by wind.
Tube
The hollow part of a wave when it breaks, also known as a barrel.
Wipeout
Falling off the surfboard when riding a wave.
Understanding Surf Jargon - Conclusion
Mastering surfing jargon not only makes you sound like a seasoned surfer but also enhances your understanding and enjoyment of the sport. The next time you’re out in the lineup, you’ll be able to communicate with fellow surfers and appreciate the nuances of the surfing experience. Whether you’re discussing the perfect barrel or recounting an epic wipeout, knowing the lingo is a vital part of the surfing culture. So, get out there, catch some waves, and get stoked!
