Just because it’s winter, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a great surfing experience.
San Diego is the perfect spot for winter surfing with the average winter temperature hovering between the mid and high 60s.
So grab your board and some friends and get ready to hit up your favorite surf spot.
HERE ARE OUR FAVORITE SURFING TIPS SO YOU CAN CARVE UP THE COOLEST WAVES EVEN IN THE COLDEST MONTHS.
1. FIND THE RIGHT WINTER SURFING WETSUIT
Even with temperatures in the 60s, the water in San Diego can be downright chilly at times. It’s important you take care of your body and find a proper winter surfing wetsuit.
A good rule of thumb is to make sure that your wetsuit is as thick as possible so you can retain the most heat.
Should you choose to surf sans wetsuit, you’ll put your body at significant risk.
Hypothermia is preventable yet dangerous all the same. From losing track of your surroundings-a huge risk when you’re in the water-to reduced dexterity, rapid heat loss can be downright deadly in some cases.
2. DON’T FORGET TO WARM UP
Surfing makes for a great full-body workout. And like with any exercise, it’s crucial that you prepare your body to minimize the chance of injury.
Warming up before you hit the waves keeps you limber for longer, so you can easily prop yourself up on your board, lean backward, and enjoy better mobility.
Aside from the reduced risk of injury, a few minutes of quick dynamic and static exercise can help your body stay warmer, too.
3. KNOW YOUR LIMITS
This tip is important.
Too many people spend too much time in the water because they feel like they have something to prove.
Even if you’re an experienced surfer, the thrill of carving one more wave can be enticing.
Please, take this tip seriously: listen to your body.
If you notice your teeth chattering or your hands losing range of motion, it may be time to call it a day. Your health comes first.
4. SURFING IN THE WINTER MEANS BIGGER WAVES
Due to stronger waves-some coming from as far as the Gulf of Alaska-and changing weather patterns, you’ll notice winter waves tend to be quite a bit larger than their warm-weather counterparts.
Winter waves may be between two and three feet more massive in the winter, especially if you’re surfing at a spot like Black’s Beach.
Make sure to take this into account as you head into the water.
Even if you’re a pro, make sure you have someone with you in case the more aggressive tide turns violent.
5. STAY COZY FOLLOWING YOUR WINTER SURF
Once you’re ready to head back to shore and call it a day, you’ll want to get your body acclimated again.
First, make sure you have some water on hand. Surfing is instead demanding, so staying hydrated is critical. Then, spend five to 10 minutes cooling down with warm-ups like you did before you began.
After a long surf session in chilly waters, your first thought will likely be to grab a warm drink like coffee or tea. Be careful. You’ll need to get your body acclimated to the warmer temperatures again.
Warm beverages are a great way to unwind after surfing, but some drinks (like coffee) can dehydrate you and shouldn’t be enjoyed until you’re done cooling down.
FOLLOW THESE SURFING TIPS FOR A GREAT WINTER SURF
Just because the weather is a little cooler doesn’t mean you’ll need to avoid your favorite hobby. By following these surfing tips, you can have as much fun in the winter as you would in the summer.
Speaking of which, do you want to get a head start on your surfing lessons so you’ll be ready by the summer? Be sure to contact us today to see how you can sign up for lessons.