Surfing is a thrilling water sport that requires a combination of physical and mental abilities. If you have mastered the basic surfing skills and are ready to take your surfing to the next level, then you need to learn and practice intermediate surfing skills. In this article, we will discuss 10 intermediate surf skills that will help you improve your surfing abilities and take your surfing to the next level.

1. Paddling Technique

One of the most critical skills to develop as an intermediate surfer is the right paddling technique. Paddling is an essential part of surfing, and it can be the difference between catching a wave and missing out. By improving your paddling technique, you can increase your wave count and save energy.

2. Duck Diving

Duck diving is a technique used by intermediate surfers to get through a wave when paddling out to the lineup. It involves diving under the wave as it approaches, rather than going over it. This technique can help you save energy and make it to the lineup faster.

3. Bottom Turn

The bottom turn is a fundamental maneuver in surfing that involves changing direction after riding down the face of a wave. It is essential to master the bottom turn to set up for other maneuvers and generate speed.

4. Top Turn

The top turn is a maneuver that involves turning back towards the breaking part of the wave after reaching the top of the wave’s face. It is crucial for generating speed and setting up for other maneuvers.

5. Cutback

A cutback is a maneuver that involves carving back towards the pocket of the wave after riding down the face. It is an essential skill for linking maneuvers and generating speed.

6. Floater

A floater is a maneuver that involves riding over the top of a breaking wave rather than turning down the face. It is a stylish move that requires precise timing and can add variety to your surfing.

7. Re-entry

A re-entry is a maneuver that involves riding up the face of a wave and then turning back down towards the open face. It is a challenging move that requires good timing and can add variety to your surfing.

8. Tube Riding

Riding inside a breaking wave’s barrel is the ultimate goal for most surfers. It requires excellent wave selection, positioning, and timing. By mastering the other intermediate skills listed here, you can increase your chances of getting barreled.

9. Surfing Etiquette

As you progress as a surfer, it’s crucial to learn and follow surfing etiquette. This includes understanding the lineup, knowing your right-of-way, and respecting other surfers in the water.

10. Reading the Waves

Finally, an essential skill for any surfer is the ability to read the waves. This includes understanding wave patterns, identifying the best sections to surf, and predicting when a wave will break. By mastering this skill, you can improve your wave selection and catch more waves.

Conclusion

Improving your surfing skills is a never-ending process, and mastering intermediate surf skills is a significant milestone in your surfing journey. By incorporating these 10 intermediate surf skills into your surfing, you can take your abilities to the next level and enjoy the waves to the fullest. Remember to always practice in safe conditions and respect the ocean and other surfers.