Top 5 Mistakes New Surfers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Top 5 Mistakes New Surfers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and start surfing—congrats! Few things compare to the thrill of catching your first wave, but like any new skill, there’s a learning curve. Whether you're a total beginner or have a few sessions under your belt, it’s easy to make mistakes when you’re starting out.

At Jax Surf Motorclub, we’re all about supporting surfers on their journey, whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect rash guard or just getting the basics down. Here are the top five mistakes new surfers make, and how to avoid them, so you can focus on improving your surf game!


1. Choosing the Wrong Board

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is choosing a surfboard that’s either too small or too advanced. It’s tempting to go for a sleek shortboard because they look cool, but a larger, more stable board (like a longboard or foamie) is your best bet when learning. Bigger boards offer more stability, making it easier to stand up and ride the wave without wiping out every time.

Pro Tip: Stick with a bigger board until you master the basics, then gradually transition to something more advanced as you progress.


2. Paddling Incorrectly

Paddling may seem like the easy part, but it’s actually a critical skill that many new surfers get wrong. Too many beginners try to paddle with both arms at the same time, or they tire themselves out by not using proper technique. This leaves you too exhausted to catch the waves when it matters most.

How to Fix It: Practice alternating strokes with your arms, keeping your body streamlined on the board. Remember, efficient paddling is key to getting you into position to catch the wave!


3. Standing Up Too Soon

Timing is everything in surfing, especially when it comes to standing up. Many new surfers rush the process and try to pop up as soon as they see a wave, which often leads to losing balance or missing the wave entirely.

Solution: Wait until the wave has fully caught the board and you feel the forward momentum. Practice your "pop-up" technique on land, so when you’re on the water, your muscle memory kicks in at the right time.


4. Not Reading the Ocean

Surfing isn’t just about riding waves—it’s about learning to read the ocean. One of the biggest rookie mistakes is not paying attention to wave patterns, rip currents, or knowing where the best spot to catch a wave is. This can not only ruin your session, but it can also be dangerous.

The Fix: Spend time on the beach watching the waves before jumping in. Learn how to spot the line-up, identify where waves are breaking, and understand the currents. This skill will improve over time, but being observant from the get-go will give you a major advantage.


5. Skipping the Right Gear

Last but definitely not least, new surfers often underestimate the importance of the right gear. From rash guards to sun protection, having the correct gear can make or break your session. Many beginners don’t invest in a good rash guard, which can lead to discomfort and irritation during long hours in the water.

Gear Up: At Jax Surf Motorclub, we offer rash guards designed for maximum comfort, durability, and style. Whether you’re battling sun exposure or looking for that extra layer of protection, our rash guards keep you focused on the waves, not your gear.


Every surfer starts as a beginner, and mistakes are part of the process. The key is learning from them and continually improving. Whether it’s choosing the right board or perfecting your paddling, the more you understand the ocean and the mechanics of surfing, the faster you’ll progress.

Ready to hit the water with confidence? Be sure to check out the Jax Surf Motorclub store for all the gear you need to surf comfortably and in style. [Shop now] and make your next surf session your best one yet!

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