Understanding your surf level is key to getting the most out of your coaching sessions and surf trips. Every surfer progresses at their own pace, and it’s normal to feel like you’re “in between” levels. Our surf levels are designed to help you identify where you stand and what skills you should focus on next.
Level 1: The Wave Rider Basics
1.1: The Ocean Explorer
You’re brand new to surfing but confident in the water.
Focus Areas:
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Paddling techniques
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Basic surf equipment knowledge
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Ocean safety and surf etiquette
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Navigating white water and passing the break
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Popping up on the board
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Stance fundamentals and catching small waves
1.2: The Foam Glider
You’ve tried surfing a few times and can occasionally pop up, but consistency is a challenge.
Focus Areas:
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Refining paddling and take-off techniques
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Improving balance and stance
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Catching unbroken waves with more control
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Learning to angle take-offs left and right
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Introduction to speed control and basic turns
1.3: The Whitewater Cruiser
You can stand up with assistance and ride whitewater waves straight with decent control.
Focus Areas:
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Consistently catching unbroken waves
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Better wave reading and positioning
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Mastering angled take-offs
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Developing mobility through improved stance
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Understanding how to trim along the wave face
Level 2: The Wave Chaser Progression
2.1: The Green Wave Seeker
You’re comfortable paddling out, catching unbroken waves solo, and riding both left and right.
Focus Areas:
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Generating and maintaining speed
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Advanced wave reading and positioning
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Duck diving techniques
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Enhancing mobility for smoother maneuvers
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Introduction to bottom and top turns
2.2: The Flow Master
You control your board well, perform basic turns, and want to refine your style with advanced maneuvers.
Focus Areas:
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Mastering speed generation in various conditions
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Precision in wave selection and take-off positioning
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Technical analysis of bottom and top turns
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Developing cutbacks, floaters, and re-entries
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Rail-to-rail transitions and roundhouse cutbacks
Why Identify Your Surf Level?
Recognising your surf level helps tailor your coaching experience, ensuring you receive guidance that matches your current skills and goals. Whether you’re just starting or refining advanced maneuvers, personalized coaching will help you progress faster, avoid bad habits, and enjoy your time in the water even more.
