Thursday, January 30, 2014

Hurley Pro Carissa Moore: Brains, Beauty and Surf Brilliance in One Package

If anyone in pro surfing has the Aloha spirit, it’s 21 year old Hurley star Carissa Moore. A native of Hawaii, she really knows how to thrown down a high wave score with the best of them. I guess that’s why so many surf fans were not surprised to see her finish first in the 2013 ASP Women’s World Title race.

She also made it into Glamour magazine’s 2013 Women of the Year issue along with the likes of Barbara Streisand, Lady Gaga and Melinda Gates. For her Women of the Year photo op, Moore elected to sport her Hurley surfboard and a stunning, backless pink dress. It turned out to be one of the magazine issue’s more colorful photos.

But then again, Hurley’s Carissa Moore has a flair for being memorable. As a tween, she rocked the NSSA scene by scooping up more surf titles than any young woman on record. From there, she went on to dominate the ASP circuit and win her first world’s title before she was even old enough to drink a celebratory glass of champagne. Surprisingly enough, despite all of that early success, she remains both humble and approachable.

With that said, we here at Surfboards Etc. are proud to carry both Hurley and Carissa Moore’s signature surf gear. Currently on offer are her collection of DaKinetraction pads. For a closer look at Hurley pro Carissa Moore’s stylish surfing gear and apparel, please contact us at Surfboards Etc. We ship orders quickly and offer a virtually unheard of 110% return policy.
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Thursday, January 23, 2014

Surfing Basics Every Newcomer Should Learn

If you've decided surfing is the sport for you, but you have no clue where to begin, we would like to offer you a few words of advice. While professional surfers make riding the waves look effortless, getting to that point took not only commitment, but also a large amount of hard work. Starting off your journey by learning some basic but important surfing techniques is the first step to becoming a seasoned surfer.

Are You Natural or Are You Goofy
Before you even step onto a surfboard, you should discover whether your footwork will be natural or goofy. If your scratching your head at the terminology, let us take a second to explain. Everybody's body has an organic sense of balance. For instance, imagine you're sliding down a dirt hill while standing up. Now ask yourself which foot you would put in front, to keep from tumbling over. If it's your left foot, your stance is natural, and if it's your right foot, your stance is goofy.

Paddling Position
Having a good paddling technique is crucial to catching the best waves. The first step to learning how to paddle correctly is finding the proper positioning on your surfboard. Your body should be located just far enough back to make the nose of your surfboard rise a few inches out of the water. Though, if you position yourself too far back the surfboards nose will end up too high and you will have difficulty paddling against the water. On the other hand, if you are to close to the front of the board the nose will end up underneath the water and you will most likely fall off.

Once you are in the right spot, your next step is arching your back and lifting your feet slightly out of the water. Remember, at this point your feet and legs should be together. This is not an easy position, and beginners may find it difficult to carry out for long periods of time. Performing core strengthening exercises is an excellent way to improve on your execution of the paddling position.

Now Comes The Actual Paddling
Now that you are positioned comfortably on your board, you need to learn how to paddle successfully through the water. As always, balance is important and sometimes difficult to maintain while you're learning to paddle. If you find yourself struggling, allow your legs to part slightly. This will make controlling your balance a bit easier, but don't let this become a habit you have difficulty breaking in the future. As you paddle, you are going extend your arm towards the nose of the board. Your hand should be cupped as you push your arm through the water. Once your first arm has passed through you should continue your stroke with your second arm. If your exploring paddling for the first time, it's not a bad idea to practice on flat water, instead of jumping into more difficult situations.


If you're on a quest to learn how to surf, please contact us, to purchase the right surfboard and equipment to get you started.
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Thursday, January 16, 2014

Quiksilver Gear Will Help you hit the Waves in Style

When it comes to surfing gear, nobody offers a better selection than Quiksilver. Here are a few items you may want to consider purchasing in order to ensure you are riding the waves in style.
  • Boardshorts-Quicksilver has shorts in lengths ranging from 18” to 21”. These shorts are available in a variety of colors and patterns as well.
  • Amphibians-These shorts are quick to dry, and are available in a variety of solid colors. Since they look much like other shorts do, you can easy go from surfing to running errands without having to change clothes first.
  • Shirts-Quicksilver has everything from long-sleeve button-up shirts to zippered hoodies in a wide range of styles and colors.
  • Booties-This footwear is intended to provide stability and comfort, and some shoes are even designed not to leak.
Quicksilver also offers a variety of gear that is perfect for everyone from beginning surfers to professionals. Some of the surfing equipment you can expect to find includes:
  • Surfboards
  • Board bags
  • Traction pads
  • Performance fins
If you’re new to surfing, you may want to check out some of the many how-to books and videos in order to help you learn new techniques. There are also a number of DVDs that are available solely for entertainment purposes as well.


Don’t forget the numerous beach accessories such as backpacks, umbrellas, coolers, lunch sacks and water bottles. Whatever you need for a fun-filled day of surfing, Quicksilver is bound to offer it. Contact us today to see the latest gear and equipment for yourself.
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Monday, January 13, 2014

Quiksilver Pro Kelly Slater Continues to Impress Surf Fans

Although he got bested by Aussie Mick Fanning for the ASP World Championship, Quiksilver pro Kelly Slater had a solid season in 2013. The soon-to-be 42 year old icon finished the Men’s ASP World Title race in a respectable second place and landed in sixth place overall. Oh and let’s not forget his sick performance at the Billabong Pipe Masters in December 2013. He truly showed 21 year old Hurley pro, John John Florence, that age is nothing but a number.


All that aside, when Slater isn’t delivering epic barrels, he’s known to keep rather busy. There’s this charitable endeavors and surfboard shaping work to consider. In addition, he’s managed to help his sponsors produce some of the best surf apparel around. We know that for certain because at Surfboards Etc., we keep Slater’s Quiksilver boardshorts in stock.

Two of the most popular designs at this time are the Under the Radar and Slater boardshorts in original red. Both pairs of boardshorts are exceptionally nice because they reconfirm Slater’s ongoing commitment towards preserving the marine environment. The Under the Radar boardshorts have been designated an eco-friendly product and the Slater Originals are made with recycled materials too. So you can feel really good about sporting Quiksilver and Slater’s label.

Of course surf apparel isn’t the only merchandising category where Kelly Slater rocks. He also makes a gnarly FCS surfboard fin template. We carry those products too. Look for the FCS K2.1 and FCS K3 Kelly Slater Green Flex Surfboard Fin Sets and you’ll be able to see precisely what we mean. They are each designed to help give surfers greater control when it comes to executing aerials, turns and barrels.


With that said, we can’t wait to see what Kelly Slater has in store for his fans in the weeks ahead. Here’s hoping that he’ll rip it up on the tour front and continue releasing additional, top-notch surf gear. To learn more about Quiksilver pro Kelly Slater’s latest offerings, be sure to contact us. As longtime surfers and members of the Board Retailers Association, you can count on us treating you right.
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Thursday, January 2, 2014

How to Safely Introduce Your Child to Surfing

If your child has shown an interest in surfing, now may be the perfect time for them to enter the sport. While the thought of your son or daughter in the ocean, battling waves, may cause you some anxiety, supporting their inclination to explore the sport is important. Listed below are five steps that can help you, safely introduce your child to surfing.
Where to Start
An obvious beginning point is confirming your child is a strong enough swimmer. Knowing how to breathe properly and how to tread water are both critical abilities for your child to have when venturing into the world of surfing. Once they are competent pool swimmers, get them use to swimming in the sea. While the same techniques are employed in both settings, the ocean is filled with many more obstacle and can be quite frightening. Building your son or daughters confidence by exposing them to the sea before they hop on their first surfboard, lays the groundwork for them to become skillful surfers.
Testing The Waters
If your child seems hesitant about surfing, try a body board first. A body board allows them to experience the intensity of catching waves without the pressure of standing-up on their surfboard. As your son or daughter gets acquainted with the sea, their level of comfort will increase and soon the idea of surfing won't feel as intimidating to them.
Picking Out A Board
A soft surfboard is the best choice for introducing your child to the sport. The soft foam construction makes the board extremely buoyant and stable which helps new surfers stand-up. The width of the board you choose is also an important factor. Purchasing one that is wider can help your son or daughter find their balance a bit easier as they practice their surfing technique.
Exposure
Watching other surfers is a great way to motivate and excite your child. While you're observing the surfers take the time to introduce surfing safety and etiquette to them. Providing your child with proper knowledge can help prepare them for any future obstacles they may face while participating in the sport.
Practice Makes Perfect
While practicing should not be forced on your child, you should provide them with ample opportunities to exercise their surfing skills. Whether you're an expert surfer or a beginner, joining your child in the water is a great form of encouragement. Another excellent way to bolster your child's enjoyment of the sport is by enrolling them in lessons. Professional instructors have the tools and experience to help your child succeed in the surfing world.
If you're looking for a surfboard for your child, please contact us, and we'll be happy to help you pick out the perfect beginners board for your son or daughter.
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