How to Make Late Drops in Surfing

In surfing, the best rides sometimes come from the waves you didn't think you could catch. While nothing in surfing is particularly easy, being in position when a wave breaks does make catching it that much easier. Being just out of position, having to paddle to catch as wave as it breaks and dropping down the face of the wave is known as a late drop. More often than not, you will either not catch the wave to make the late drop or will wipe out in the attempt. However, those occasions when you succeed in making the drop will make those failed tries all seem worthwhile.

Instructions

    • 1

      Paddle hard to catch up to the wave if you are out of position when the wave you want to drop into approaches.

    • 2

      Pop up onto your board as quickly as possible once you have caught the wave so you can negotiate the drop into the wave.

    • 3

      Make any adjustments regarding where you want to go based on what the wave is doing. Keep you head up at all times and look where the wave is headed.

    • 4

      Adjust your weight so that it is back on your surfboard as you begin your descent over the ledge. Keep a low center of gravity with your knees bent. Adjust your weight forward if you need to move down the line at a faster pace.

    • 5

      Set up your bottom turn based in the wave's action. Angle yourself close to the inside rail as you prepare to surf the wave.

    • 6

      Be confident in your ability to catch the wave and ride it -- even if you wipe out. Don't hesitate to make another late drop even if your previous attempts failed.