All Articles

The Return of the Balsa: Surfboard Evolution and the Revival of Wood

The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational: A Waiting Game for the Soul

The Iconic Board Short: A History of Shore Style

The Unseen Footage: How Bruce Brown’s Obsession Captured Surfing’s Golden Era

The Spirit of the Local Surf Contest

The New Wave: Trading Localism for the Aloha Spirit on Surfari

The Mentawai Islands: A Surfer’s Soul Journey

The Hunt for the Perfect Wave in Morocco

Riding with Aloha: Embracing Responsible Surf Tourism by Respecting Local Breaks

The New School Rule: Why the Next-Gen Shredders Are Rewriting the Playbook

From Logs to Grovelers: How the Evolution of Surfboard Designs Redefined What ’Right Size’ Really Means

The Point at Scorpion Bay: Baja’s Desert Dream

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What’s The Deal With…?

The Surfing Life

Beyond the standard bandages, pack items for surf-specific injuries. Include antiseptic for reef cuts, waterproof tape and super glue for sealing those gashes, and anti-inflammatory pills. Throw in some ear drops to prevent surfer’s ear flare-ups, zinc for sun protection, and a good seasickness remedy if you’re doing boat trips. A small tube of solarez can fix board dings that might cut your feet. Being prepared lets you handle minor issues and get back in the water faster.

Shortboards (under 7’) are high-performance: fast, sharp turns, but hard to paddle. Fish are short, wide, and thick, with a twin-fin setup for insane speed in small waves—super fun! Funboards (7’-8’) are the sweet spot for many: they paddle like a longboard, turn easier, and are great for progressing. It’s about the wave and your style. Want to rip? Shortboard. Want smiles in knee-high surf? Fish. Want a do-everything cruiser? Funboard.

Check for the obvious: any fraying or cuts in the urethane cord is a red flag. If the swivels are seized up or rusty, that’s another. A Velcro cuff that’s lost its stick is a sure sign. Most importantly, if it’s been through a proper hold-down or a major tangle, retire it even if it looks okay. Internal stress weakens it. A blown leash can turn your board into a runaway missile—not cool for you or anyone in the lineup.

Surf Gear Essentials

Each brand has its own flavor, bro. Some focus on hyper-performance tech for the competitive ripper, using crazy-advanced materials and minimal designs. Others are all about bold, artistic prints that reflect surf culture and lifestyle. Then you’ve got the heritage brands that have been in the game for decades, offering timeless styles. It’s about finding what matches your vibe in and out of the water.

A kook isn’t just a beginner; it’s someone who doesn’t respect the lineup’s unwritten rules. Key things to avoid: ditching your board near others, paddling straight for the peak and snaking everyone, or dropping in on someone who’s already riding. Be aware, wait your turn, and always hold onto your board. We all started somewhere, but showing respect and a willingness to learn is what separates a respectful grom from a true kook. Don’t be that guy.

This is non-negotiable, grom. The lineup has rules for safety and respect. The surfer closest to the peak has right of way—don’t drop in on them. Don’t snake for waves, and always control your board. Paddle wide around the peak, not through it. Respect the locals and the vibe; a friendly attitude goes further than any maneuver. Getting this dialed keeps everyone safe and ensures you get waves, too. A good rep in the water is your most valuable asset.