Surfing Bigger Waves Without Panicking – 6 Ways to Stay in Control
Bigger surf is where growth happens – but it’s also where fear takes over fast. Panic leads to hesitation, wipeouts, and blown sessions.
Here’s how to step into heavier conditions without spinning out.
1. Don’t Paddle Out Blind
Before you leave the beach, scan the lineup. Are there rip currents or paddle channels? Where are the sets breaking? Who else is out?
If you charge straight into the impact zone without a plan, you’ll burn all your energy before catching a single wave.
2. Only Go If You’re Ready
You don’t have to prove anything. If you’ve never surfed this size before – or if it feels beyond your level – it’s okay to wait, watch, or come back later.
Pushing too far past your limit builds fear, not skill.
3. Pick the Right Waves – Not the Biggest Ones
Bigger doesn’t mean better. Especially in more powerful surf, the wrong wave can ruin your session.
Let the first few pass. Read how they break. Aim for waves you can handle with full commitment.
4. Commit 100%
Half-paddling is how most surfers get hurt. If you’re going, go. If not, don’t.
Indecision leads to late drops, awkward pop-ups, and panicked bails. A clean “nope” is safer than a shaky “maybe.”
5. Don’t Surf Alone
Bring a friend – ideally someone just a little more experienced than you. You’ll feel more confident, learn faster, and have backup if something goes wrong.
Plus, you’ll probably paddle for waves you’d otherwise skip.
6. Build Confidence in Layers
You don’t need to charge triple overhead to progress. Go one step bigger than you’re used to – and get comfortable there.
Stack small wins. The calm you build now will pay off when the waves really pump.
TRAX Helps You Track Sessions That Push Your Limits
Heavier surf reveals your gaps – and TRAX helps you close them.
See when you hesitated, how early you paddled, where your turns broke down, and what to fix next.
It’s the best way to learn from your scariest sessions – without repeating the same mistakes.
Sign up now for early access.
How to Stay Calm in the Surf – Even When Things Get Sketchy – It’s not just fitness — composure matters most.
The Most Important Turn in Surfing (That You’re Probably Ignoring) – Mastering your bottom turn can change how you handle speed and size.
