The Most Important Feats of Surfers in the Last 30 Years

Surfing, more than a sport, is a culture and a way of life.
Over the past three decades, we have witnessed breathtaking feats and records that have redefined what is possible in the ocean.
From gigantic waves to innovative maneuvers, here's a look back at some of the highlights and the surfers who made them happen.

1. Laird Hamilton and the Teahupo'o Wave (2000)

Laird Hamilton is a legend in the surfing world, known for his bravery and exceptional giant wave surfing skills.
In August 2000, Hamilton surfed one of the most terrifying and perfect waves ever seen in Teahupo'o, Tahiti.
This wave, known as the "wave of the millennium," was not only a personal achievement for Hamilton, but also raised the standard for big wave surfing.
Hamilton is a pioneer of tow-in surfing, a technique that uses jet skis to tow surfers into waves too big to paddle.
This technique allowed surfers to tackle waves much larger and more dangerous than previously thought possible.
In addition to his famous wave at Teahupo'o, Hamilton has surfed huge waves at Jaws, Hawaii, and has been an innovator in the use of hydrofoils for surfing.

2. Kelly Slater and his 11 World Titles (1992-2011)

Kelly Slater is undoubtedly one of the most influential surfers of all time.
Since winning his first world title in 1992, Slater has dominated the surfing world, amassing a total of 11 World Surf League (WSL) world titles.
His consistency, longevity and unmatched talent have made him an icon of the sport.
Slater has not only been dominant in competition, but has also been an innovator in surfboard design and the creation of artificial waves.
His "Surf Ranch," a wave pool in California, has revolutionized surf training and competition, allowing surfers to practice in perfect, predictable conditions.
Slater has also been an environmental advocate, using his platform to promote ocean conservation.

3. Garrett McNamara and the Nazaré Wave (2011)

In 2011, Garrett McNamara broke the world record by surfing a wave of approximately 78 feet (24 meters) in Nazaré, Portugal.
This feat not only put Nazaré on the map as a giant wave surfing destination, but also showed the courage and skill needed to tackle the biggest waves in the world.
McNamara has dedicated his career to seeking out and surfing the biggest and most dangerous waves on the planet.
His obsession with giant waves led him to Nazaré, a small fishing village on the coast of Portugal, where he found the perfect conditions to break the world record.
Since then, Nazaré has become an epicenter of big wave surfing, attracting surfers from all over the world looking to challenge their limits.

4. Carissa Moore and the Women's Surfing Revolution (2009-present)

Carissa Moore has been a pioneer in women's surfing, winning her first world title in 2011 at the age of 18.
Since then, she has racked up multiple titles and has been a tireless advocate for gender equality in surfing.
Her progressive style and dedication have inspired a new generation of female surfers.
Moore has been instrumental in the advancement of women's surfing, not only through her competitive achievements, but also through her influence outside of the water.
She has worked to promote inclusion and equal opportunities for women in surfing, and her success has proven that female surfers can compete at the same level as their male counterparts.
In 2020, Moore made history by winning the first gold medal in surfing at the Tokyo Olympics, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest female surfers of all time.

5. John John Florence and Innovation in Aerial Surfing (2016).

John John Florence is known for his incredible talent and creativity in the water.
In 2016, Florence won his first world title, standing out not only for his skill in big waves, but also for his innovative aerial maneuvers.
His ability to combine power, fluidity and technique has redefined what is possible in modern surfing.
Florence, a native of the legendary North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, grew up surfing some of the most challenging waves in the world.
His technical approach and ability to perform complex aerial maneuvers has greatly influenced the evolution of surfing.
In addition to her competitive successes, Florence has produced acclaimed surf films, showcasing her love for the ocean and her dedication to the sport.

6. Maya Gabeira and her Wave in Nazaré (2018).

Brazilian surfer Maya Gabeira made history in 2018 by surfing a 68-foot (20.7-meter) wave at Nazaré, setting the world record for the largest wave surfed by a woman.
This feat underscores her bravery and determination, and highlights the growing role of women in giant wave surfing.
Gabeira has faced numerous challenges in her career, including serious, life-threatening accidents.
Her perseverance and dedication led her to return to Nazaré, where she eventually broke the world record.
Gabeira has been an advocate for big wave surfing safety and has worked to improve training conditions and equipment for other surfers.

7. Kai Lenny and Hydrofoil Surfing (2016-present)

Kai Lenny is one of today's most versatile and pioneering surfers.
In 2016, he began popularizing the use of the hydrofoil in surfing, a board with a special fin that allows the surfer to "fly" above the surface of the water.
This innovation has opened up new possibilities in surfing and has taken the sport to new horizons.
Lenny, a native of Maui, Hawaii, is a multi-sport athlete who masters not only surfing, but also windsurfing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddle and hydrofoiling.
His ability to adapt and excel in various disciplines has made him one of the most influential surfers of his generation.
The use of the hydrofoil has revolutionized surfing, allowing surfers to maintain speed and maneuverability even in small or choppy wave conditions.

8. Gabriel Medina and the Brazilian Surfing Era (2014-present).

Gabriel Medina, the first Brazilian to win a WSL world title in 2014, has been a leader in the so-called "Brazilian Storm" in professional surfing.
His success has inspired a new generation of Brazilian surfers who now dominate the world circuit.
Medina is known for his aggressive style and ability to execute complex maneuvers under pressure.
Medina, born in São Sebastião, Brazil, has transformed professional surfing with his competitive approach and technical ability. He has won multiple world titles and is known for his ability to perform innovative and risky aerial maneuvers.
The "Brazilian Storm" refers to the wave of Brazilian surfers that have emerged in the last decade, including Italo Ferreira and Filipe Toledo, who have also made their mark on world surfing.
In short, the last 30 years have been a period of innovation, bravery and impressive achievements in the world of surfing.
These surfers and their exploits have not only taken the sport to new heights, but have also inspired millions of people around the world to grab a board and take on the waves.

Do you want to work at Totora Surf School?

If you like the beach, surfing, dealing with people or just want to give a twist to your professional life, in Totora Surf School we will be happy to meet you and have you for our surf school in cantabria.
We are looking for surf instructors with degrees in TD1, TD2 or higher who like surfing and want to transmit all their knowledge with our students.
We also need for our surf camp monitors free time for the accompaniment of minors during their stay.
And if you do not fit any of the above but you want to spend a summer as a volunteer with us as part of our project, learning and enjoying a summer to the fullest, we will also be happy to find a place for you in our staff.
You already know! If you are interested in working with us you can contact us through the form on our website or by sending an email telling us your interests to ADMIN@TOTORASURFSCHOOL.COM + attaching your CV.
We will contact you as soon as possible.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Greetings and good waves

SURFING CODE / RULES

SURFING CODE

More and more, information signs about the "unwritten code of surfing" are becoming a common sight at beaches where surfing is a constant occurrence. For those of you who are just starting in this sport, it is advisable to read it carefully and if you do not understand anything, ask your instructor or lifeguard. You will avoid problems.

A very common phrase among those who start in this sport and have a conflict with another more experienced surfer, is "The sea belongs to everyone", and yes it is true, but you have to follow some basic rules of coexistence that will help to perform the activity safely for you and for those around you, because with a surfboard you can do a lot of damage to a person.

At the same time, the most important thing is that we know our level and never expose ourselves to situations that exceed it.

TYPES OF BREAKERS

Types of breakersBeachbreaker Breaker with sand bottom. The sand accumulates in zones (sandbanks) due to the waves themselves and gives rise to the different peaks of the beach. The seabed is usually not very constant because the sandy seabed is very changeable. Sometimes there are peaks that last for days, although there is a tendency for sand to accumulate in approximately the same places on each beach. Reef Breaks Most of the world's waves break on these seabeds, either as rock or coral. The advantage of these bottoms is that they remain constant and only the direction and size of the swell will condition the waves, not forgetting of course our friend the wind. Another advantage or disadvantage, depending on how you look at it, is that the stone does not absorb the energy of the wave and when it breaks it does so with its full potential. Hence those wide, fat-lipped tubes. It is not advisable for beginners or those surfers with a low level, as it increases the risk of injury exponentially. Probably the most famous reef break in the world is Pipeline in Hawaii. Point Breaks Waves that break at a specific point (small variation) depending on sea directions and currents and go along (sweeping) the coast for a long distance. It is the perfect wave for improving and perfecting carving maneuvers. There are those that break with or without tubes, but they are long and beautiful. There are many waves around the world with these characteristics, although for me the one that takes the cake and has me in love is a right that breaks in Jeffrey's Bay (South Africa) and that we all know by the name of the Bay. In Spain, there is another wonder like this one in Lobos Island.

PARTS OF THE SURFBOARD

PARTS OF THE SURF BOARD Understanding the slang used is important for several reasons, from our surf school Totora in Suances, we strive for our students to learn the names of each thing. In this article we will focus on the parts of the table. All surfboards have some parts in common. Their names will be expressed in English, because it is the language used by most surfers.

  • Deck: upper part of the board or where the body and feet rest.

 

  • Bottom: lower part of the board, where the sliding occurs.

 

  • Rocker: all boards have a slight curvature (Bottom), more or less depending on the characteristics that you want to give to the board.

 

  • Nose: is the tip of the board or front part. Its shape may vary, ending in a sharp point (short boards, spikes) or being rounded (evolutionary, longboards).

 

  • Tail: is the tail of the board or rear part. Like the previous one, its shape can vary, but covering a much wider range, since the shape of the tail is fundamental, giving the board certain characteristics.

The tail can be of different types. The most commonly used are the following: Rounded: Rounded. Provides greater grip.

Rounded pin: Round, pointed. Maximum grip and low maneuverability. Used for long and powerful waves. Deep barrels.

Square: Square. Greater maneuverability, less grip.

Rounded square: Same as above but with rounded corners.

Swalow or fish: Its most outstanding characteristic is its great maneuverability.

  For anything you know, we are in Suances at your service. Totora surf school Totora Surf School Paseo de la Marina española n8 Suances 39340

Surfing equipment

Using the right equipment in surfing is essential to avoid difficulties in the initiation, improvement and general enjoyment of surfing.
In our surf school in Cantabria, Totora Surf School Suances we strive to choose the best material to facilitate learning.
Surfing in Suances is done under temperatures that vary from winter to summer ranges up to 13 degrees, so in Totora surf school you can find wetsuits of different ranges.
Under the criteria that we use in Totora surf school Suances we recommend you to take into account the following aspects to choose the best material for surfing.

NEOPRENE

The choice of the right wetsuit (thickness) is directly related to the temperature of the water where you are going to surf.
Knowing this, we can make the following distinction:
2×2 (mm): Typical summer suit.
Same thickness throughout the suit.
Can be long, short, short sleeves and long legs or long sleeves and short legs.
For high water and ambient temperature (19-21 degrees).
3×2 (mm): It means 3mm in chest and back and 2mm legs and arms.
They are usually long.
For warm water temperature and environment (average 16-19 degrees).
4×3 (mm): It means 4mm in chest and back and 3mm legs and arms.
For cold water temperature and environment  (average 13-16 degrees).
5×4 (mm): Means 5mm in chest and back and 4mm legs and arms.
For very cold water temperature and environment (average 11-13 degrees).
There are more options and combinations of wetsuits but these are the most common.
Surfing in Suances is done under temperatures that vary from winter to summer ranges up to 13 degrees, so in Totora surf school you can find wetsuits of different thicknesses with which to learn to surf in total comfort.

SURF BOARD

This is the fundamental and necessary element for the practice of surfing.
We have them in different sizes, shapes and a great variety of materials.
In the next post we will go deeper into this topic but what we do advise you to do is to take the board that fits your level.
At this point there are two great phrases of two world famous surfers and that for us are the ABC of this sport:
"Foam is your friend".
Rob Machado.
We all know that small boards are cooler but don't switch to one of them if your level doesn't deserve it.
"The best surfer is the one who has the most fun."
Duke Kahanamoku.
Well, there's not much to say.
ENJOY!!!!!
The waves are also different, so we have a wide range of boards for the different conditions offered by La Concha beach or Los Locos beach for surfing.

INVENTION (LEASH)

The invention is the "leash" that keeps us attached to our board at all times to avoid losing it.
They are made of rubbery and elastic material.
In future posts we will go deeper into this topic, which can be very extensive.

SOCKS

In areas where the water is cold or very cold, or the access to it is through a rocky terrain (reef) or steep, it is advisable to use them.
Therefore, we can say that the main function of the bootie is protection, both against low temperatures and against blows and cuts.
The booties must be perfectly adjusted to the foot, never big, since a lot of water can enter and the foot can slip inside the booties, both situations are very uncomfortable for surfing.

GLOVES

Like the previous item, gloves, they fulfill the same functions.
But they are generally worn in areas of water or very cold environments.

PARAFFIN

Product that surfers pour on the deck of the board (upper part) to improve the adherence to it.
There are different types of kerosene depending on the water where we are going to surf (see table).
The temperature ranges for each of them are usually shown on the packaging.

SUNSCREENING

Keep in mind that in the sea the sun affects twice as much due to the reflection on the water. So use cream all year round. In our surf school we give a lot of importance to sun protection and we recommend you to use sunscreens with a protection level higher than 25 and that are water resistant. We hope you find this article interesting, and you know that for any questions you can contact us, we will be happy to understand you in our store / surf school in Suances. The best surfing is in Suances. Greetings

Ribamontán and Surf Schools

The municipality trasmerano approves the Ordinance regulating the Use and Coexistence of the Beaches and other Public Spaces. The Official Gazette of Cantabria has published on Monday the new ordinance that the City Council of Ribamontán al Mar has developed to regulate "the use and coexistence of the beaches and other public spaces"   of the municipality.

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