By: Sam Gruetter

Opinion Editor

One of the unspoken rules in the Santa Cruz surfing community is that respect amongst surfers supersedes the desire to catch a perfect wave. As many locals try out surfing as a summer hobby it is apparent when they do not abide by surfing etiquette, a set of rules and guidelines designed to keep surfers safe and maintain the respect that permeates tight knit communities at Santa Cruz surf spots. As summer approaches, new and returning surfers must acknowledge and abide by surfing etiquette. 

Surf etiquette is composed of four rules: the surfer closest to the break of the wave has the right of way, surfers must paddle around waves not through them, surfers must hold onto their board when navigating the waters, and all surfers must help one another. In many Northern California surf spots one will find these tennents carved into wooden sign posts, urging locals and newbies alike to heed them when they are in the water. According to Science Direct “the number of surfers in the United States increased by 17% during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and by 35% within the past decade.” With the large volume of novice surfers, it is more important than ever to navigate breaks with caution. As a new surfer, one may struggle to paddle through rough waters, navigate choppy breaks, and maintain control of their board. These struggles could pose hazardous to surrounding surfers, with the risk of running into a board or another person being high. The only way to offset this lack of experience is to adhere to surf etiquette.

When surfers don’t follow this protocol, there is a higher chance injuries will occur, especially in crowded surf spots. Losing control of one’s board, improperly avoiding a set of waves, or not wearing a surfboard leash can all lead to waves dangerously throwing boards around, and even head or face injuries to surrounding surfers. According to the National Library of Medicine, injuries to surfers occur most during summer, and the head, neck, and face are the most commonly injured parts of the body. Additionally, children have a concussion rate of 6.5%, while adults have a rate of 3.2%. Summer is the most crowded season for surfing, as the weather is ideal and swells become more frequent, meaning it is also the prime time for injuries to take place. Surf etiquette is extremely relevant in crowds and provides the best measures surfers can take to avoid bodily harm to themselves and others. 

While it is a matter of safety, it is also a matter of respect. Respect for oneself, ones surfing equipment, the environment in which they are surfing, and those around them. Local surfing communities are notorious for being tight-knight, all because surfers respect one another. If respect is prioritized, safety will undoubtedly follow. 

(Sources: National Library of Medicine, Science Direct)