Winter Surf, No Worries: Your Cold-Season Safety Guide

When the air gets crisp and the crowds thin out, winter becomes a special season for surfing. The waves get bigger, the winds shift offshore, and the ocean feels raw and alive. But winter surfing also comes with real hazards — cold water, stronger currents, heavier swell, and unpredictable weather. Whether you’re chasing winter barrels or just trying to keep your sessions consistent, staying safe means being smart and prepared.

Here’s your guide to surfing safely (and stoked) all winter long.

1. Know Your Limits — and the Conditions

Winter surf is powerful surf. Before paddling out, check the forecast, swell direction, tide, and wind. Look at how those elements interact with your local break.

• If the swell’s jumped overnight or the period is long (think 15+ seconds), expect more size and punch than usual.

• Be honest about your comfort zone — it’s better to surf a mellow peak with control than to get caught inside at a double-overhead spot.

When in doubt, watch the lineup first. The best surfers know when not to paddle out.

2. Suit Up Properly

Cold water drains energy fast, so your wetsuit setup is your first line of defense.

• Wetsuit: 4/3mm or 5/4mm for most of California’s winter; booties for warmth and traction; gloves and a hood for colder regions.

• Fit: A snug suit keeps water out and heat in. Too loose, and you’ll feel every flush.

• Rinse and dry your gear after each session so it stays flexible and warm for next time.

Bonus tip: pour a little warm (not hot) water into your suit before paddling out — game changer.

3. Keep Your Body Warm — Before and After

A warm body reacts faster and surfs better.

• Do a quick dynamic warmup before paddling out — squats, lunges, shoulder rolls.

• After your session, change fast and get dry immediately.

• Keep a thermos of hot water or tea in your car — not just for comfort, but to reheat your core.

The goal: avoid the post-surf shivers that can sneak up once the adrenaline fades.

4. Choose the Right Board

Winter waves pack power, and your board should match the conditions.

• For bigger, hollower surf: try something like our Over Easy or ATV for control and drive.

• For playful winter days or beach breaks: a Speed Egg, Rocket Fish, or Poacher gives you more paddle power and versatility.

• Avoid ultra-small grovelers when the swell’s packing juice — extra volume means extra safety and earlier entry.

Having the right board under your feet can make the difference between a clean drop and a sketchy wipeout.

5. Respect Rip Currents and Heavy Water

Cold water already taxes your body; add a rip current, and things can go south quickly.

• Learn how to spot a rip — darker water, foamless channels, or water flowing seaward.

• If caught, don’t panic and don’t paddle straight in. Paddle parallel to shore until you’re free, then make your way back in.

• Always keep an eye on set frequency and where other surfers are paddling out — often, the safest channel is where the locals go.

6. Surf with a Buddy

Winter lineups can be quiet, and rescue help is often far away. Whenever possible, surf with a friend or at least where others are around.

• Look out for each other if someone loses their board, gets caught inside, or looks hypothermic.

• A quick check-in mid-session can make a huge difference.

Remember: surfing is more fun — and safer — when you share the stoke.

7. Listen to Your Body

Cold water exhaustion can sneak up fast.

• Early signs: clumsy duck dives, slower paddling, numb hands or feet, brain fog.

• If you feel it, head in. Hypothermia isn’t worth one more wave.

• Refuel after your session with warm food and hydration — you’ll recover faster and surf stronger tomorrow.

8. Respect the Ocean — and Enjoy It

Winter is when the ocean feels wildest — and that’s part of the magic. Respect her moods, prepare for her power, and she’ll reward you with unforgettable sessions.

Stay warm, stay humble, and stay safe out there.
We’ll see you in the lineup — maybe in a 5/4, maybe with a steaming coffee in hand, always chasing that next clean winter wall.

Need a board that’s ready for winter surf?