Surfing is more than just a ride; it’s about connecting with the ocean’s energy, speed, and rhythm. So, whether you’re a beginner just learning the ropes or an experienced surfer chasing record-breaking speeds, knowing how to harness your momentum is key to mastering this sport.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the fundamentals of surfing speed, explore the factors influencing how fast you can go, and uncover the secrets of reaching those adrenaline-pumping velocities.

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Surfing Speed: The Basics

An image of a female surfer surfing a wave

The speed at which surfers can ride waves isn’t just a matter of how strong the wave is. Instead, it’s influenced by various factors, including the wave’s characteristics, the surfboard’s design, and the surfer’s own skill level.

Against this backdrop, below is a rough answer to the question: how fast do surfers go?

For example, beginners usually start riding waves at speeds of around 5-10 mph as they learn to balance and understand the dynamics of wave riding. This might not sound very fast, but for someone just starting out, it’s all about getting comfortable on the board.

Then, as surfers gain more experience and confidence, they typically progress to speeds around 10-15 mph.

Advanced surfers, on the other hand, often reach impressive speeds of 15-20 mph!

With that said, let’s take a closer look at some of the factors influencing how fast surfers can go:

Wave Type

The type of wave surfers choose to ride plays a crucial role in determining their speed and overall surfing experience.

Larger waves, such as those found in big wave surfing, are packed with immense energy and momentum, allowing surfers to reach exhilarating speeds as they harness the power of the wave’s movement. These waves have a steeper face and break with more force, propelling the surfer forward with greater intensity.

In contrast, smaller waves lack the same level of energy and tend to generate less speed, requiring surfers to rely more on their own techniques and skills to maintain momentum.

At this point, it’s also worth noting that wind speed and direction are critical to wave formation and, consequently, surfing speed. More specifically, high-speed offshore winds create steeper, cleaner waves, enhancing surfing speed and performance. In contrast, low-speed onshore winds flatten waves and cause premature breaking, reducing surfing speed.

Lastly, deeper water allows waves to build properly, providing faster and more powerful rides. In contrast, when waves occur in shallower water, refraction changes their speed and shape, affecting how they break.

Surfboard Design

Surfboard design is another crucial factor in determining a surfer’s speed and overall performance on the waves.

For instance, the surfboard’s shape, weight, and construction can all significantly impact its movement through the water.

Boards with thinner outlines constructed from lighter materials tend to reduce drag, enabling surfers to reach higher speeds with greater ease.

Another critical aspect is the rocker, which refers to the curve of the board from nose to tail. A board with a flatter rocker tends to glide faster across the water, making it ideal for speed in smaller, less powerful waves.

In contrast, surfboards with more pronounced rocker curves offer enhanced manoeuvrability and a looser feel. However, they generally sacrifice some speed.

Additionally, the fin setup is crucial in dictating speed and control. For example, thruster setups (three fins) are popular for striking a good balance between speed, grip, and manoeuvrability, allowing surfers to maintain control at higher speeds and execute tighter turns with precision.

Overall, the combination of these design elements determines how efficiently a surfboard can generate and maintain speed, so be sure to bear that in mind when picking your next board!

Skill Level

Skill level is crucial in determining a surfer’s ability to reach high speeds on the waves. Experienced surfers know how to read the ocean, position themselves correctly, and execute precise movements, all of which contribute to their ability to generate and maintain speed.

For beginners, this serves as a reminder that consistent practice and dedication are key. With experience, novice surfers will gradually unlock the speed and fluidity that more seasoned surfers enjoy, transforming their wave-riding experience into an exhilarating journey.

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Surfing at Record-Breaking Speeds

The world of professional big-wave surfing is a thrilling display of athleticism, skill, and bravery, with surfers pushing the limits of what’s possible on the water.

These exceptional athletes regularly achieve speeds of 25 to 30 mph, a testament to their refined techniques and rigorous training. On particularly massive waves, speeds can soar even higher, with rare, record-breaking instances surpassing an incredible 50 mph.

Two surfing legends have made history with their remarkable achievements at Praia do Norte, Nazaré, Portugal, a spot famous for its gigantic waves.

Sebastian Steudtner holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wave ever surfed by a male, conquering a towering 26.21-meter (86 feet) wave in October 2020. Similarly, Maya Gabeira shattered expectations for female surfers when she rode an awe-inspiring 22.4-meter (73.5 feet) wave at the same location, setting her own Guinness World Record that same year.

The astonishing feats of these big-wave surfers are not just milestones in the surfing community; they stand as a testament to human courage, skill, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in one of the most challenging sports on the planet.

How Fast Do Big Wave Surfers Go?

Tow surfing, also known as tow-in surfing, offers a unique and adrenaline-fueled experience, setting itself apart from traditional paddle surfing by employing a jet ski or other tow vehicle to generate the necessary speed before catching a wave.

This technique opens up the opportunity to ride much larger and more powerful waves that would be nearly impossible to catch using conventional paddling methods.

As a result, surfers can take on the most intimidating waves, often towering over 30 feet, and reach exhilarating speeds exceeding 30 miles per hour.

The use of a tow vehicle not only enables access to these massive waves but also significantly reduces the physical strain typically associated with paddling. This means surfers can conserve their energy, allowing them to stay focused, maintain peak performance, and position themselves with precision to achieve the best possible ride.

In essence, tow surfing maximises the surfer’s ability to conquer and master some of the world’s biggest and most awe-inspiring waves, transforming the sport into a thrilling blend of speed, power, and technique.

Safety Considerations at High Speeds

Safety should always be your top priority, especially when high-speed surfing. Surfing can be an exhilarating experience, but the ocean is unpredictable, and risks can escalate quickly.

So, always surf with a buddy, as having someone nearby ensures that help is readily available in case of emergencies, such as injuries, sudden cramps, or being pulled under by strong currents.

Also, before you even step into the water, take a moment to thoroughly assess your surroundings. Look for potential hazards like submerged rocks, poles, or any other obstacles that could pose a threat.

This extra vigilance can make all the difference in preventing accidents and ensuring a safe, enjoyable surfing experience.

Our Final Thoughts

Surfing is a journey that involves pushing boundaries, embracing speed, and connecting with the power of the ocean. As you’ve learned, factors like wave type, surfboard design, and skill level all make a huge difference in how fast you go and how thrilling your ride can be. So why not take the next step and experience it for yourself?

Take the plunge with Rapturecamps, your gateway to unforgettable surf experiences around the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, their expert-guided camps and breathtaking surf spots will help you ride the waves like never before.

Book your surf lessons today at Rapturecamps and start chasing that next adrenaline rush!

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does a surfer go?

The speed of a surfer can vary greatly depending on factors such as wave size, wave type, board type, and the surfer’s skill level. However, on average:

What is big-wave surfing?

Big-wave surfing involves riding waves that are at least 20 feet (6 meters) high, with some waves reaching heights of over 60 feet (18 meters) or more. It’s an extreme and highly challenging form of surfing that requires exceptional skill, strength, and courage.

As the size of the wave increases, so does the speed of the surfer. On big waves, surfers can reach speeds of 30-50 mph (48-80 km/h) or more. The gravitational pull and the sheer force of these giant waves generate significant momentum, pushing surfers faster than they would typically travel on smaller waves.

How does the ocean floor impact surfing speed?

The ocean floor shape impacts wave quality, which in turn affects surfing speed. A steep ocean floor creates faster, more powerful waves, allowing surfers to travel faster, while a gradual slope results in slower waves, reducing surfing speed.

Who holds the world record for surfing the fastest?

The world record for the fastest speed achieved on a surfboard is held by Josh Enslin, who reached a top speed of 81 kilometres per hour (50.3 mph) in 2017, surpassing the previous record set by Layne Beachley at 78.26 km/h (48.62 mph). Another notable record is the fastest wave surfed, clocked at 62.3 km/h (38.7 mph)​.