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Not necessarily, dude. High-performance shortboards are for powerful, pitching waves when you’re going vertical. For your daily driver, you want something more forgiving and versatile—think a fish, a funboard, or a groveler. These boards get you into waves easier, offer more paddle power, and let you have a blast in less-than-perfect conditions. Save the razor-sharp performance blade for when it’s firing.

How much does fin size actually matter?

Size matters, but it’s not just about height. Fin size (often based on your weight) affects the amount of hold and drive. Too small, and you’ll feel sketchy and slide out. Too large, and the board can feel stiff and tracky, resisting quick direction changes. Most manufacturers have weight charts—use them as a starting point. Your style matters too: a more aggressive surfer might size up for control, while a flowy surfer might size down for looseness.

Can I wear my everyday shorts in the surf?

You can, but you’ll likely regret it, bro. Everyday cotton shorts or heavy chinos soak up water like a sponge, get crazy heavy, and take forever to dry. They’ll weigh you down while paddling and can chafe you raw. Real boardshorts are engineered with lightweight, hydrophobic fabrics that shed water and move with you. They have features like secure closures and reinforced seams. Save the casual shorts for the post-sesh burger run and gear up with proper baggies for actual water time. Your performance and comfort will thank you.

Surf History & Legends

Who are the groms making serious noise right now?

Dude, the next generation is absolutely charging! Look out for surfers like Erin Brooks, a powerhouse in the barrel, and Californian phenom Sawyer Lindblad. On the men’s side, you’ve got guys like Levi Slawson, who’s redefining airs with insane rotation. These kids grew up with high-performance coaching and are pushing progression in every swell. They’re not just future champs; they’re already winning major events and filming mind-bending video parts. The level is so dialed, it’s inspiring every surfer to step up their own game.

Why are cold-water breaks like Iceland getting more attention?

It’s the modern search for empty lineups and pure adventure. With better wetsuit tech, surfers are chasing swells to the ends of the earth. Spots in Iceland, Norway, or Canada offer stunning, uncrowded waves in dramatic, icy settings. It’s a different kind of stoke—trading board shorts for a 6mm steamer, surfing under the midnight sun, and earning your waves with a dose of hardcore exploration.

What Was the Original Hawaiian Surfboard Called?

The OG boards were called papa heʻe nalu. Chiefs rode massive olos, carved from wiliwili or koa wood, sometimes reaching 18 feet long. The commoners rode shorter, more maneuverable alaia boards. These weren’t just toys; they were sacred craft, shaped with stone tools and blessed by kahuna priests. Riding waves was deeply spiritual, a way to connect with the ocean’s mana (power) and show your skill and grace. It was way more than just a sport, brah.