Topics

Miki Dora, aka “Da Cat,“ was the ultimate soul rebel of mid-20th century surfing. More than just a stylish charger at Malibu, he embodied a fierce anti-establishment attitude, clashing with the burgeoning surf industry and commercialization. His legendary noserides were pure art, but his legacy is his uncompromising philosophy: surfing as a pure, free expression, not a contest. He remains the iconic cult figure for surfers who value soul over scores and individuality over corporate logos.

Consistency is about linking turns and flow down the line, not just random maneuvers. Focus on your fundamentals: generate speed by pumping down the line, set your rail on bottom turns, and project toward the next section. Practice connecting a solid bottom turn into a crisp top turn. Watch footage of yourself. It’s about making every wave count, turning a section into a canvas for expression.

It’s all about matching the wax to the water, bro. Cold water wax is super hard so it doesn’t melt in chilly waves. Tropical wax is softer and stickier for warm water. Using the wrong one is a total wipeout—you’ll either slip right off or get a gooey mess. Always check the temp range on the package. A good basecoat with a top layer of the right temp wax gives you that perfect grip to pop up and rip without a worry.

Look to the horizon, not just at the water in front of you. Watch for a darker, thicker line forming way out there. Often, you’ll see the horizon seem to “boil” or disappear as the set approaches. Also, keep an eye on the more experienced surfers in the water; if they suddenly start paddling with purpose toward the horizon, they’ve likely clocked a set. It’s about reading the subtle signs before they become obvious.