Wave Wisdom: Surfing 101 & FAQs

No matter where you are in your surfing journey, there’s always room for improvement. Whether you're looking to paddle stronger, ride bigger waves, or land your first cutback, the right strategies can speed up your progress and help you get the most out of every session.

At Spunky’s Surf Shop, we've been in the game for over 30 years, outfitting surfers with the best gear and expert advice to level up their surfing. In this guide, we’ll share proven ways to improve your surfing skills—even when conditions aren’t ideal.

Surfing is one of the most exhilarating sports on the planet. There’s nothing quite like the rush of standing up on your board and riding a wave to shore. But ask any seasoned surfer, and they’ll tell you—your first time won’t be as easy as it looks in the movies. There are lessons every beginner must learn, and if you’re gearing up for your first surf session, knowing these will help you get the most out of your experience. Here’s everything I wish I knew before paddling out for the first time.

Embarking on your surfing journey is exhilarating, but understanding how to read waves is crucial for safety and success. At Spunky's Surf Shop, with over 30 years of experience, we’re here to guide you through the essentials of wave reading, ensuring you make the most of every session.

Surfing isn't just a sport; it's a lifestyle that offers a unique connection to the ocean's rhythm. With over 30 years of experience, Spunky's Surf Shop has guided countless enthusiasts through the exhilarating journey of wave riding. Whether you're a beginner or looking to expand your horizons, understanding the various types of surfing can enhance your experience and help you find your perfect match.

For surfers, there’s nothing like the thrill of catching the perfect wave. But let’s be honest—sharks are always in the back of our minds. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just paddling out for the first time, shark encounters can be unsettling.

Enter the Remora Shark Shield, the ultimate shark deterrent designed for maximum protection without sacrificing board performance. Unlike bulky ankle bands or cumbersome leashes, this sleek and effective device creates a 16-foot protective radius, keeping sharks at bay so you can focus on the stoke. 🌊🏄‍♂️

The world of surfing is evolving, and with it, so are the options for catching waves. Traditionally, surfing has been about paddling out at the beach, feeling the ocean’s rhythm, and riding nature’s unpredictable energy. However, with the rise of wave pools, surfers now have access to machine-made perfection, offering a different yet equally thrilling experience. So, which is the better option for honing your skills—beach surfing or wave pools? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each to help you decide where to sharpen your technique.

Starting your surfing adventure is an exciting and rewarding experience, but having the right gear is crucial to your success and safety. Whether you're looking for boards, wetsuits, leashes, or wax, Spunky's Surf Shop has everything you need to ride the waves with confidence. The right equipment can make all the difference. Here’s what every surfer needs!

Fort Pierce, Florida, known as "The Sunrise City," is a hidden gem for surfers seeking uncrowded breaks, pristine beaches, and a laid-back surf culture. While South Florida is often associated with luxury and exclusivity, Fort Pierce stands as a beacon of authentic beach life, offering world-class waves, a tight-knit surf community, and natural beauty that makes it a prime surf destination. Whether you're a beginner looking for mellow rides or an experienced surfer chasing the perfect peak, Fort Pierce delivers.

New to surfing or looking to level up your wave-riding game? You’re not alone! Whether you're wondering what surfboard to buy, how to paddle more efficiently, or if surfers really pee in their wetsuits, we’ve got you covered.

At Spunky’s Surf Shop, we’ve spent over 30 years outfitting surfers with the best gear and expert advice. This guide tackles the most frequently asked questions about surfing—from choosing your first board to understanding surf etiquette and beyond.

Embarking on your surfing journey is exhilarating, but mastering the fundamentals is crucial for success. One of the most vital skills is the paddle out—navigating from the shore through breaking waves to reach the lineup. At Spunky's Surf Shop, with over 30 years of experience, we're here to guide you through this essential technique to enhance your surfing adventures.

Learning surf terminology isn’t just about fitting in—it’s about improving your surf game. When you understand what the locals mean when they say, "Watch out for that cleanup set!" or "The lineup is firing today". Surfing is more than just a sport; it’s a culture with a language of its own. By learning the essential surfing lingo, you can improve your communication, enhance your safety, and truly embrace the surf lifestyle. 

Surfing is one of the world’s oldest sports, and the surfboard has evolved dramatically over centuries. From the hand-carved wooden planks of ancient Polynesians to today’s high-tech epoxy and carbon fiber designs, surfboards have shaped the way humans interact with the ocean.

If you’re looking to buy a surfboard, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go with PU (Polyurethane) or Epoxy (EPS) construction. While both have their advantages, they offer distinct differences in performance, durability, and feel in the water. So, which one is right for you? With over 30 years of experience we're here to break it down! 

Surfing is an incredible, life-changing sport, but how long does it take to go from total beginner to confident surfer? The answer depends on multiple factors like fitness, consistency, and the right gear. With over 30 years of experience we're here to break down the learning curve and share tips to speed up your progress.

Do Surfers Pee in Their Wetsuits? Yes, most surfers pee in their wetsuits, and it's considered completely normal. While it might sound gross to non-surfers, it's a common practice in the surfing world.

If you’re just starting your surfing journey, choosing the right beginner surfboard is crucial for building confidence and catching more waves. With over 30 years of experience, Spunky’s Surf Shop, we want to make it easy for you to find the perfect board that fits your skill level and helps you progress. Whether you’re looking for a foamie or a hard-top fiberglass surfboard, we’ve got you covered!

Surf wax is one of the most essential surf accessories—without it, you’d be slipping and sliding all over your board! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, applying surf wax properly can improve your balance, stability, and overall control while paddling, popping up, and carving waves.

Surf Etiquette 101: Spunky's Guide to Respecting the Waves, by following these simple guidelines; you can ensure that every session is a positive experience for yourself and those around you. Remember, surf etiquette isn’t about strict rules; it’s about respect—for the waves, for the environment, and for each other. Surf’s up, so go out there and enjoy it responsibly!

A waterlogged surfboard—whether a soft-top foamie or a fiberglass PU board—is significantly heavier, harder to maneuver, and can deteriorate over time. Many surfers wonder if drying out their board is possible and whether it’s worth the effort. The short answer? Yes, but with limitations. In this guide, we’ll break down the options you have on repairing & drying your surfboard!

Your surfboard’s tail shape plays a crucial role in maneuverability, speed, and stability. Whether you’re carving through small waves or charging big barrels, the right tail shape can enhance your performance and maximize your control over the wave. At Spunky’s Surf Shop, we break down the different surfboard tail shapes to help you make an informed decision.

Choosing the right surfboard is essential for maximizing your performance and enjoyment in the water. Spunky’s Surf Shop, we know every surfer is different. That’s why we’re here to help you find the perfect board for your style and ability. With over 30 years of experience and countless boards under our belt, we’re looking out for your best ride. Trust the process, trust your instincts, and most importantly—trust your Surf Shop. 

Discover how surfboard fins impact performance. Learn about different fin setups, materials, and innovations to optimize your surfing experience.