When it comes to surfing, there are many styles, and everyone has their own unique vibe. You might notice that surfers have different ways of riding the waves. Even though they might be using the same kind of surfboard. Some surfers ride a longboard on Bali’s waves with a soulful, laid-back rhythm, while others love the high-energy, fast-paced maneuvers using short boards. This diversity is what makes surfing so exciting and personal. Understanding the different styles in surfing can help you figure out which one fits and elevates your overall surf journey.
Surf style is all about how you ride the wave, adding your unique flair to the experience. Some surfers glide gracefully with the wave, showing elegance, while others bring power and aggression to their rides, performing sharp turns and dynamic moves.
Your individual surf style depends on several factors. Including your height, weight, body type and fitness level. Confidence also plays a crucial role, how comfortable you feel on the board can influence your approach to riding the waves. As you gain more experience, your style will naturally change, especially as you learn all the basics of surfing. Taking surf lessons is the best way to build that foundation, check out our prices for surf lessons to help you choose the best option when you’re here in Bali.
The type of surfboard you choose is also important, as different boards help you perform various techniques. Lastly, the influences of surfing trends and the surf reels you consume can shape your style. Watching surfers on Instagram or TikTok can inspire you to adopt techniques that you like. Ultimately, your surfing style reflects who you are and will evolve as you continue to learn and grow in this amazing sport!
If you’re looking for adrenaline, action and high performance, shortboarding might be your jam. These boards are typically 5 to 7 feet long and are designed for speed and agility. Shortboards allow for sharp turns, quick cutbacks and some pretty impressive aerial maneuvers.
However, as a beginner, shortboarding is a little tricky. It requires balance and a lot of skill, so it’s best to start by focusing on the basic techniques using a foam board before diving into this fast-paced style. But if you’re all about speed and technical moves as your skills improve, shortboarding could be your cup of tea later in your journey!
If the idea of a relaxed, flowing ride attracts you more, longboarding might be the perfect fit. These boards are generally 9 feet or longer, with a rounded nose and are heavier than short boards. Making them slower and more stable. Perfect for smooth, graceful movements. Longboarding is considered the original style of surfing, dating back to ancient Polynesian traditions. This style is the perfect for catching smaller, rolling waves and enjoying a laid-back vibe.
Longboarding is particularly beginner-friendly, thanks to the board’s stability and buoyancy, which makes it easier to balance and stand up. If you love the idea of cruising along the water and riding with style and elegance, longboarding is definitely worth exploring during your time in Bali.
Funboarding is an awesome combination of shortboarding and longboarding. These boards typically range from 7 to 9 feet and offer a sweet balance of stability and maneuverability, making them great for various wave conditions.
Funboarding is ideal for beginners who want to experience both the forgiving nature of longer boards and the excitement of performance and action from a shortboard. If you’re looking for a fun and easy ride, funboarding might be just what you need to help you gain confidence as you learn to surf!
For those adventurous souls craving the highest form of an adrenaline rush, big wave surfing might be your next step. It offers an extreme way to ride waves that can reach very large sizes. Surfers are towed into larger surf by jet skis, allowing them to ride some of the biggest swells out there.
Of course, big waves and tow-in surfing isn’t for beginners. It requires a solid skill set and experience to handle those giant waves with everything that comes with it (think about those massive wipe outs). If you’re a more experienced surfer looking for a thrilling challenge, this could be the ultimate ride for you, but as a beginner just stick to watching.
If you’re just starting out, funboarding or longboarding could be your best bet for a forgiving learning experience. These styles offer stability and ease, helping you gain confidence on the water. As you progress and feel more comfortable, explore other options and discover what truly resonates with you.
Take your time to watch as many different surfers as you can, riding all kinds of boards in all kinds of waves. Some styles will stand out to you. Learn all the basics of surfing, including the pop-up, paddling out to the lineup, and turning and then experiment with the different styles. What feels most comfortable and exciting for you? It’s all about enjoying the ride, connecting with the ocean and learning something new.
Ready to discover your own surfing style? Grab your board and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime. At Surf School in Bali, we’re ready to help you find your perfect surfing style and enjoy every wave. Let’s ride those waves together!
