Surfing

Surfing is the art of propelling across the water using the force generated by waves while standing on surfboards.

Surfing History

Surfing originated in the Hawaiian islands prior to the 15th century before spreading to the United States mainland and Australia in the early 20th century.

Towards the middle of the 20th century, surfboards became increasingly lighter, more maneuverable and cheaper resulting in a surge in the popularity of surfing.

The sport of surfing has now spread to most places where waves suited for surfing can be found including France, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ireland, South Africa, and many island states.

Surfing Equipment

Surfing equipment consists of:

• surfboards which are the boards surfers stand on while surfing,
• leashes to prevent surfboards from drifting away after a wipeout,
• surfwax or traction pads to prevent a surfer's feet from slipping off the surfboard,
• interchangeable skegs or fins,
• surf trunks or boardshorts worn during warmer days, and
• wetsuits, booties, hoods, and gloves for protection during colder climates.