In the last issue of The Locker Room we gained insight into the world of surfer Oscar Schenk. This time he returns to share some of his top tips.
Getting started
A good quality wetsuit that fits correctly will ensure that all your surfing days are spent in comfort and warmth.
Take a board that fits your level. The bigger the better! Make sure the leash is in good state and that it is clean. Start with the beach break and avoid over-crowded spots. Before surfing try to get as much information as possible about the surf conditions and the tides.
Never surf alone, ask a surfer about the currents and conditions if you have never surfed the spot before and remember to drink enough water before you surf. Although you don’t notice, you sweat a lot. Like running in a rubber suit.
Avoid skin cancer by using high factor sun cream. Don’t put it in your eyebrows. It will leave you with a stinging sensation. Plus everything is brighter then ever! Always stretch before and after surfing. Make sure you put some wax on the top of the board.
Surf safe
Make sure that after a wipe out you always cover your head. Never hold the board in between you and the wave.
This will leave you with the same feeling as walking in to a door while the door walks in to you!
Never abandon the board. It might hit somebody and it will help you to get to the shore more quickly. Although surfers are known to be easy and nice guys. To avoid any problems in the line-up you should know the following priority rules. While paddling out, always go to the direction of the foam while surfers can continue on the unbroken part. The surfer who is closer to the critical part of the wave has priority.
How to act in the line-up
Try to sit on your board once you have reached the line up. You can see the waves better and it is easier to turn and get the basic position whilst getting ready to catch the unbroken waves. Paddle hard if you go for a wave or don’t paddle it at all. Don’t get angry in the water. There will always be another wave. Give waves and you will get waves. Don’t go straight for the peak. Wait on the side and wait for your turn. When it’s your time, you take your wave and show the others you have control.
Surfing reef breaks
Make sure you understand the currents before you enter the water. Use the currents to get back to the line up. Always use the channel. While surfing barefoot or with surfbooties avoid walking on reef and try to paddle as much as possible.
How to avoid to look like a Kook
Try to walk as little as possible with the leash on. Always carry the excess length in your hand so you don’t trip.Don’t eat wax. It’s smells better than it tastes.
Always leave boards flat on the ground. Murphy’s Law. What stands up straight can fall down. Just remember to check behind and in front of the car before you leave. Never wear board shorts over your wetsuit! Kite surfers do this. Not surfers! Respect the locals if you are visiting a beach. Remember that you are a guest and that waves should be shared.
Wax the top of your feet if you have to walk barefoot over slippery rocks. In the water you rub the bottom of your feet over the top to remove any slippery stuff.
If you leave the water make sure you don’t have a big piece of snot (booger) hanging under your nose. Leave nothing but footprints behind on the beach!
After reading this Riders Guide we hope you enter the water more confident. This means less stress and more time to enjoy the sport and addiction that is SURFING!
