Culture
The people, history, art and ideas around a life spent in the water.
Surf-Inspired Tattoo Ideas & Meanings: Waves, Symbols, and Stories from the Sea
Surf-inspired tattoos aren’t just about looking cool (though many of them are). They’re personal symbols. Marks of memory, identity, meaning.
Every Surfing World Champion Ranked, Men and Women
See every men's and women's world surfing champion since 1976 ranked by a crowd-sourced survey, from Kelly Slater and Stephanie Gilmore on down.
50 Best Surf Quotes from Kelly Slater and Legends
A hand-picked collection of 50 of the best surf quotes from world champions, authors and icons, on why surfing matters and what it feels like.
30 Best Surfers of All Time, From Slater to Irons
Meet 30 of the most influential surfers in history, from Duke Kahanamoku to John John Florence, and see who shaped the sport's culture and style.
7 Big-Wave Surfers Who Died Surfing: Their Stories
The stories of seven big-wave surfers lost to the ocean, from Mark Foo at Mavericks to Mikala Jones's rare fin injury in the Mentawais.
Where Motion Becomes Memory: The Surf-Inspired Art of Sylvain Boudreau
The French-Canadian artist merging surf culture, engineering, and contemporary design. Surf art is changing. Less figurative, less nostalgic — more about the feeling. The physics. The identity. In…
Surf Slang Dictionary: Frother, Kook & More Explained
A surfer's slang glossary explaining frother, kook, snake, stoked, barrelled and 20+ more lineup terms, with real example sentences for each.
Surf-Inspired Outfits for 2025: From Waves to Cocktails
To help you flow from surf to street, here are a few of our favorite looks — for him and for her, featuring brands we love like Outerknown
Sun Bum Launches Revamped Signature Line Built for High-Performance
Sun Bum has released a new Signature Series of products designed to provide sun protection in the most demanding environments.
How Infinity Wave Co. Is Reimagining the Wave Pool Experience for Surfers of All Levels
Discover how Infinity Wave Co. is redefining wave pools with Dynamic Reef technology—custom waves for every surfer.
Heart, Soul, and Saltwater: Meet Naomi Pettenuzzo of Ocean Art Naomi
Naomi Pettenuzzo is the creative force behind Ocean Art Naomi, a vibrant body of work that captures the beauty, boldness and soul of the sea.
Why Every Surfer Needs a Changing Mat
Recently, I overheard a middle-aged surfer talking to his friend. He said, "The most dangerous part of surfing is getting in and out of my wetsuit." They both laughed and so did I — the gymnastics of…
QUIKSILVER’S New Brand Campaign Calls For Action. NOW.
Quiksilver's Get It. Now. campaign marks 56 years since 1969, featuring riders from Kauli Vaast to Griffin Colapinto — plus the press release and our quick take.
Mick Fanning: Surfer Profile, World Titles and Shark Story
The full Mick Fanning story: three world titles, the J-Bay shark attack, career event wins and what the Australian legend does today.
Book Review: Bonus Time — Extreme Lives and Second Chances
There’s something about surfing that rewires the brain. The push and pull of the tides, the thrill of the drop, and the split-second decisions that can mean the difference between full-blown stoke…
Gabriel Medina: Career, Titles & Facts About Brazil's Icon
Gabriel Medina's full profile: how the Brazilian became a 3x world champion, his biggest event wins, sponsors, and the foundation he runs for young surfers.
Why Is Surfing So Hard? The Real Reasons Explained
Surfing never gets 'mastered.' A 40-year surfer breaks down why the ocean, fitness demands, crowds, and board choice make it uniquely difficult to learn.
Discover the New Tango Surf Wetsuit Collection: Orca’s Latest Innovation in Surf Gear
Orca, a leader in high-performance water sports gear, proudly introduces its latest innovation: the Tango Surf Wetsuit Range.
The Best Surf Podcasts You Should Be Listening To
A guide to the best podcasts on Spotify and Apple for surfers.
John John Florence: A Champion's Return and the Launch of Florence Marine X
On a sweltering Friday in 2024, John John Florence claimed his third World Surfing Title at the WSL Finals.
Barton Lynch: 1988 World Surfing Champion Profile
How Australian surfer Barton Lynch went from Whale Beach grommet to 1988 ASP World Champion, his 17 tour wins, and his ongoing role as a coach and commentator.
Surfing in 2050: A Day in the Life of a Future Wave Rider
An exploration of what surfing might be like in the year 2050, under the control of a one world government and with futuristic tech.
Alana Blanchard: Surfer Profile, Career & Facts
Who is Alana Blanchard? Explore the Kauai surfer's career wins, Rip Curl sponsorship split, foundation work, boards, and sponsors in this full profile.
Caroline Marks Surf Profile: Career, Wins & Stats
From Florida grom to WSL world No. 2 and Team USA Olympian — Caroline Marks' full career profile, titles, sponsors, board setup and personal facts.
Surfing vs Snowboarding: Which Is Better?
We compare surfing and snowboarding on cost, fitness, injury risk, learning curve and culture to settle which board sport comes out on top.
Do you dream about surfing?
Almost nothing can be more sensual than the surfing experience. The feeling of water caressing your head as you duck-dive beneath the first wave of the session. The sensation of dropping in. The feel…
Meet Kale Brock: Surfer, Youtuber and Educator
Kale Brock is a multifaceted individual, an award-nominated writer, filmmaker, and speaker who holds a deep-rooted passion for health, wellbeing, and the thrilling world of surf. Beginning his career…
Kelly Slater: Career, World Titles and Records Explained
An in-depth profile of Kelly Slater's 11 world titles, record-breaking wins, sponsors and surfboards, from Cocoa Beach grommet to surfing's GOAT.
Is Foil Surfing Dangerous? The Risks Explained
Why hydrofoil surfing is causing safety concerns in crowded lineups, the real accident risks, and what could make foiling safer for everyone.
Surfing vs Skating: Which Is Better and Why?
We compare surfing and skating on cost, injury risk, learning curve, and lifestyle to settle which board sport wins — plus why doing both makes you better.
Surf Gangs and Localism: The Dark Side of Surfing
From Malibu's 'Surf Nazis' to Hawaii's Da Hui, explore the history of localism and surf gangs, and the uncomfortable ethics of claiming a wave as your own.
15 most influential surfers of all time
Since the conception of professional surfing, there has always been a massive dichotomy that existed in the sport. Those rare few who get a chance to compete and exist inside the bubble of the world…
11 Best Sustainable Surf Necklaces for Surfer Girls
Skip the shell necklace. Here are 11 ethically made, ocean-inspired necklace brands, from wave pendants to surf fins, that make a genuinely thoughtful gift.
Torren Martyn: The Surfer Bringing Soul Back to Surfing
Who is Torren Martyn? Meet the nomadic twin-fin surfer redefining style, his shaper Simon Jones, and the Need Essentials films putting soul over scores.
15 Best Surf Writers: The Authors Who Defined Surf Lit
From William Finnegan's Pulitzer-winning memoir to Lauren Hill's eco-feminist reporting, meet the 15 writers who shaped modern surf literature.
Interview with illustrator Juliana De Cesare
Juliana De Cesare is a surfer and artist currently residing in New Zealand's sunniest region, the beautiful Bay of Plenty on the North Island's east coast. Originally from Brazil, she studied fashion…
A Portuguese surfboard maker clings to work as his life falls apart
Surfers of all stripes - beginners, intermediates & professionals - throng Ericeira all year round, visiting from places as far away as
What do surfers wear?
Three distinct surfer looks - beach, day and night - along with links to surf style and brand articles.
What Do Surfer Girls Wear? Style Guide for 2026
From beach to daywear to evening looks, see what surfer girls actually wear and the brands like Roxy, Patagonia and Reef that define the style.
What Is Surf Culture? Origins, Values & Identity
What is surf culture, really? Trace its post-war California roots and unpack the community, tribalism, rebellion, and style that define surfers today.
Ocean Photography: An Interview with Paul Grossman
#oceanphotography has exploded in recent years. Surfd had the pleasure of catching up with Paul Grossman, one of the people behind the lens.
Vans Eco Theory Collection: What's Inside the Sustainable Range
Vans' Eco Theory Collection uses organic cotton, cork footbeds, ethical rubber and water-based glues and inks. Here's what's in the range and where to buy it.
The Eddie Could Go!
The Eddie Could Go! This December marks the start of The Eddie Aikau Invitational waiting period. Could we see "The Bay Call The Day?"
Mark Occhilupo: Surfer Profile, World Title Comeback & Stats
The story of Mark 'Occy' Occhilupo, from his explosive 1984 J-Bay debut through depression and weight struggles to his stunning 1999 world title.
Morning of the Earth - Remastered in Stunning 4K
Morning of the Earth has been lovingly restored and remastered in stunning 4k. One of the greatest surf films of all time is now even better!
Interview with Norm Daniels
Norm is a self confessed fan of Rick Griffin, and recalls early memories of scribbling Griffin style waves on the corner of his homework.
Interview with Surf Artist John Holm
John Holm developed an appreciation for the ocean as a young boy. He grew up on the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii, during a golden era.
John John Florence: Bio, Stats, Titles & Career
Two-time world champion John John Florence's full profile: milestones, event wins, injuries, sponsors, and the Pipeline roots that shaped him.
Iconic Surf Magazine Covers: A Gallery (1962-2015)
A hand-picked gallery of classic Surfer, Tracks and Surfer's Journal covers spanning five decades, curated by surf historians, photographers and collectors.
Filipe Toledo: Surfer Profile, Career Wins and Stats
Meet Filipe Toledo, the Brazilian aerial specialist known for redefining J-Bay. Career milestones, event wins, board specs and sponsors in one profile.
Tom Curren: Career, Style and World Titles Explained
Meet Tom Curren, the three-time world champion whose silky style influenced Kelly Slater and John John Florence. Career milestones, quotes and background inside.
Stephanie Gilmore: World Titles, Career & Surfboard Specs
A full profile of Stephanie Gilmore: her rookie-year world title, record-setting event wins, board specs, sponsors and the story behind her stylish surfing.
Layne Beachley: 7 World Titles & Her Surfing Legacy
How Layne Beachley won a record six consecutive world titles, became a pioneer for women's surfing, and what she's done since retiring in 2008.
Surf-Inspired Home Decor Ideas That Don't Look Kitsch
From surfboard coffee tables to wave murals, here's how to bring surf style into your home without it looking cluttered, plus what to buy and where.
21 Best Surf Books: Memoirs, History and Gifts
From Barbarian Days to The Code, here are 21 of the best surf books ever written, covering memoirs, history, business lessons and kids' titles.
Best Surf Documentaries Ever Made (and Where to Watch)
From Kissed by God to Riding Giants, our roundup of the best surf documentaries covering Andy Irons, big-wave pioneers, and pro rivalries.
30 Surf Photographers Worth Following on Instagram
A hand-picked list of surf photographers worth following on Instagram — from Chris Burkard's cold-water epics to Ben Thouard's underwater light — and how to actually support their work.
30 Best Surf Artists to Follow on Instagram
From Heather Brown to Drew Brophy, discover 30 surf artists worth following on Instagram, plus in-depth interviews with many of the featured creators.
Meet surf artist Nathan Gibbs
Interview withNathan Gibbs, including a selection of artwork.
Meet Christa Funk
An interview with surf photographer from Hawaii, Christa Funk. We caught up with Christa for a quick chat about life, passion, and challenge.
An Interview with Nina Brooke
Nina Brooke is a surfer and artist who grew up between North Cornwall coast the Caribbean. We interviewed her to discuss surfing, art and life.
5 Surf Artists to Check out Now
These five creatives have a passion for two things: surf and art. Here’s a little more about the creative rippers in the lineup.
The Flip-Flop Emoji Is Here, Thanks to REEF
How surf brand REEF successfully petitioned Unicode for the first-ever flip-flop emoji, with an interview with REEF president Mike Jensen.
6 of Kelly Slater's Best Airs
A video collection of Kelly Slater's best airs both in and out of competition.
The Transformative Magic Of That Very First Paddle Out
Now there are few things I can conceive of facing with such trepidation, from family to business. I no longer entertain fear, because I surfed.
An interview with surf artist Jeffrey Hemming
Surf artist Jeffrey Hemming explains his influences, artistic style and shares a portfolio of work.
Waves of Freedom Surf Therapy Documentary
Waves of Freedom follows young men in a New Zealand surf therapy programme, using the ocean as a tool for rehabilitation and change.
26 Musicians Who Surf
A list of surfing musicians including Jack Johnson, Eddie Vedder, Jason Mraz and many more.
Joe Rogan learns to surf
8 Tips for Joe Rogan who is planning on learning to surf in 2019. We cover paddling, wave pools, sun exposure, fear of sharks and more.
Meet surf artist Elena Grib
Elena Grib is an artist currently based in Bali. Articles features artwork and an interview with Elena.
An interview with artist Bree Poort
An interview with surf artist Bree Poort, discussing art, life and her routine. Includes photos of her work.
Dylan Longbottom Interview: From Big Wave Charger to Shaper
Dylan Longbottom on going from big wave surfing and stunt work in Point Break to shaping boards like the RX5 under his own Dylan Surfboards brand.
15 Best Surf Museums in the World to Visit
From Huntington Beach to Torquay, Tauranga to Nazaré — the 15 surf museums worldwide worth adding to your travel bucket list, with addresses, hours, and what's on display.
How Technology is Changing Surfing
Surfing is changing faster than ever. This article looks at how technology is influencing surfing, from surf forecasting to shark deterrents, wave pools to renewable energy.
Best Female Surfers in the World Right Now
Meet the top women's surfing world - Stephanie Gilmore, Carissa Moore, Lakey Peterson, Tatiana Weston-Webb and Johanne Defay - and what sets each apart.
Carve Fin Art by Tom Metcalf
Interview with surf artist Tom Metcalf of Carve Fin Art. Includes artwork, bio and artist photos.
16 Surfboard Home Decor Ideas That Aren't Tacky
From surfboard coffee tables to wall hooks and bars, 16 surf-themed decor ideas that actually look good in a beach house (not tacky).
A Journey to Neverland, with Jonah Lake
Jonah Lake is a surfer and musician from Sweden, who recently released his second album after a four month tour of New Zealand.
Hand Made: A Portrait of Mark Rabbidge
Mark Rabbidge shapes boards, builds cars and chases uncrowded waves. Meet the artisan behind Jonathan May's short film Hand Made.
Artisan Surf Tiles with Luca Osburn
An interview with artist Luca Osburn, discussing Tides - his new range of artisan tiles that feature artwork inspired by surfing.
16 Facts About Tyler Wright: World Champion Surfer
From Culburra Beach shorebreak to WSL world champion — 16 facts about Tyler Wright's career, family, sponsors, and the promise that drove her title win.
30 Best Surfing Quotes from Kelly Slater, Gerry Lopez & More
30 inspiring surf quotes from legends like Kelly Slater, Gerry Lopez, Bethany Hamilton and Laird Hamilton, on faith, fear, and why we surf.
What It's Really Like to Date a Surfer
An honest, only-half-joking guide to loving a surfer — why the waves come first, why they disappear for weeks, and how the good ones make a relationship actually work.
12 Best Surf Photos from the Red Bull Illume Image Quest
See 12 standout surf shots from the Red Bull Illume Image Quest 2016, from Waimea Bay power shots to a perfect Teahupo'o barrel, with the photographers behind them.
How to Paint Surfboard Fins: Tribal Design Tutorial
Learn how to paint tribal designs on surfboard fins step by step, from prepping and sketching to sealing the artwork so it lasts. Includes video demo.
A beautiful life with Robb Havassy
An interview with surf artist Robb Havassy, featuring a selection of his paintings. We discuss surf art, motivation and life in Costa Rica.
Drone Surfing Explained: Get Towed by an Airborne Drone
No wind, no waves, no boat needed. See how drone surfing works, its real benefits and drawbacks, and why it could even help with ocean rescue.
Artist Interview: Wade Koniakowsky
Meet the artist Wade Koniakowsky and view a gallery of his paintings.
Meet Maritxu Darrigrand and Keep a Breast
A natural in the water, Maritxu Darrigrand went on to become France’s women’s national surfing champion in 1979.
What does the word stoke mean?
What the word stoke means in surfing: where it comes from, how pre- and post-surf stoke differ, and why it's the essence of why we do what we do.
Surfing in virtual reality: 360 degree surfer girl
Join us in surfing virtual reality as our surfer girl goes surfing in two 360 degree videos. These were filmed with the 360 Fly 4k video camera.
Surfing Norway: New Perspectives with Fjordlapse
An interview with Jonas from Fjordlapse Photography about surfing in Norway. Includes a gallery of Norwegian surf photos.
Art, Science, Surf and Life with Matt Stanton Beard
Meet artist Matt Stanton Beard and learn about his surf art lifestyle. Featuring a selection of Matt's favorite surf paintings.
Clay Marzo and his Mad Cat
A quick look at Clay Marzo: the free-surfing savant, his Asperger's diagnosis, and the Superbrand Mad Cat he rides.
Meet Surf Artist Wayne French
Wayne French is a surf artist from New South Wales, Australia, whose ocean-inspired art has received widespread acclaim. We met with him to talk about
Surfboard Fin Art
Painted surfboard fins won't make you go faster, but they always catch your eye. Check out our designs which prove that half an hour with a Posca pen...
Alan Watts on the Ocean: His Best Quotes for Surfers
Alan Watts used the ocean as a metaphor for unity and self. A collection of his most resonant quotes on waves, identity, and interconnectedness.
Following Dreams with Dave Williams
Dave Williams is a self-taught artist born in Australia in ’62. His art has been widely acclaimed and exhibited in Perth, Broome, New Zealand, France...
Step Outside: An Interview with Chris Burkard
An interview with surf and landscape photographer, Chris Burkard.
Talking Tasmania and Big Waves with Andrew Chisholm
Interview with surf photographer from Tasmania, Andrew Chsholm
Dreamtime with Zachary Bennett-Brook
An interview about surf art with Zachary Bennett-Brook.
Energy of the Earth with Drew Brophy
Drew Brophy paints scenes of gaping barrels and effervescent sunrises where tiny surfers catch the waves of their lives and enjoy bonfires on the beach.
Up Close with Russell Ord
Russell Ord is an award-winning photographer based in Margaret River with his wife and three kids.We caught up with him for a quick chat about surf and life
Waves, Boobs and Tattoos
Surf-inspired swimwear label Calavera have shown their support for young women by launching a limited edition tattoo print collection.
Surfboard Art Ideas: Custom Sprays and Famous Artists
Surfboard art ideas and inspiration from artists like Drew Brophy and Erik Abel, plus reasons a custom spray job is worth commissioning.
Art & Life with Colleen Wilcox
As part of our Artist Series we recently caught up with Colleen Wilcox, one of our favourite surf artists. Interview by Bradley Hook.
Celebrities Who Surf
From Lady Gaga's first lessons to Minnie Driver's lifelong devotion, a look at the celebrities who surf – the recent converts and the long-time veterans.
Heather Brown Interview: Life as a Full-Time Surf Artist
Hawaii-based surf artist Heather Brown talks inspiration, her acrylic and printmaking process, and how she turned island life into a full-time art career.
Meet Kyle Sparks, Photographer
Kyle is a passionate and talented photographer from Ventura, California. We managed to catch up with him for a quick chat. How are you Kyle? Keeping busy? I am doing well, as always lots going on.…
Bells Beach: 1981 Perfection
Video of perfect conditions at the Bells Beach surf contest in 1981, featuring Simon Anderson, Shaun Tomson and Mark Richards.
Interview: Heather Brown's surf art
Today we caught up with a surf artist we absolutely love. She lives in Hawai'i, she's gorgeous, talented and her art will transform any room.
Richie Lovett on Surfing, Life and Manly Beach
Steph catches up with one of Manly's favourite locals.
Meet: Ron Wade
Spend five minutes with Ron Wade, a shaping pioneer who is back with some fine designs.
Galeophobia: Understanding and Overcoming Fear of Sharks
What galeophobia is, how real the shark risk actually is for surfers, warning signs to watch for, and the deterrent gear that can ease your mind.