Surfer Terminology

Surfing, both a sport and a leisure activity, is unique in that it has also spawned its own culture among enthusiasts, including a distinct lingo developed among surfers that sets itself apart from everyday speech. To an outsider, this banter might seem confusing or even absurd, but familiarizing yourself with surfer lingo will help you communicate easily with ardent surfing enthusiasts.

  1. Culture-related Lingo

    • Surfers aren't just hobbyists. Surfing is a lifestyle to many of its enthusiasts. It embodies a laissez-faire view of life; it's a culture of fun and leisure. They wait for the Alchemy Hour -- an esoteric convergence when the surfer gets the best that a "swell" (wave) can offer him, both physically and mentally. They "graze" (eat) with their "bros" (friends) but only invite a "brosef" (best friend) out for special occasions.

    Technique Talk

    • Techniques and the surfers' unique terms to describe them are as many and varied as the waves themselves. For example, when both a surfer and his board leave the water in a maneuver, that's called an "aerial." Riding up on the cresting whitewater of a wave is known as "foam climbing." Grabbing a line and following behind on a board? "Freeboarding."

    Words for Waves

    • There are many different types of waves: "A-frame," "bake," "barrel," "boggas" and "swell," to name a few. All of them are different and have unique characteristics both to the casual observer and to the surfer. An A-frame, for example, is a wave that has a shoulder on each side, allowing two surfers to ride each side of the wave at a time. A bake, on the other hand, is a small wave that dumps over quickly. These are usually found at the break of the beach.

    The Equipment

    • Surfing is about more than just the water and the board. Types of wood used, such as balsa and bamboo, play a role in how a surfboard behaves. The different parts of the board -- "deck," "fins," "nose," "leash," "rail" -- perform different functions. Of course, there are unique descriptions for surfer attire. For example, a wetsuit with a large crotch flap is called a "beavertail."