Mastering the Varial Surf: A Comprehensive Guide to Advanced Surfing Maneuvers

The varial surf maneuver is a highly technical and visually stunning trick that separates intermediate surfers from advanced riders. It combines elements of an air and a rotational spin, requiring precise timing, board control, and a solid understanding of wave dynamics. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the varial surf, covering everything from the fundamental steps to advanced techniques, ensuring you can progress safely and effectively.

Understanding the Varial Surf

Before attempting the varial surf, it’s crucial to understand what it entails. Essentially, it’s a 180-degree rotation of the surfboard in the air, followed by a landing back on the wave. The key difference between a varial surf and other aerial maneuvers is the intentional rotation initiated by a deliberate kick or flick of the tail of the board. This makes it a more controlled and stylish trick when executed properly.

Prerequisites for Attempting a Varial Surf

Attempting a varial surf without the necessary skills can lead to injury and frustration. Here are some prerequisites you should master:

• Solid Bottom Turn: A strong and consistent bottom turn is essential for generating speed and setting up the aerial.
• Basic Airs: Comfort with performing basic airs, such as ollies and small kickouts, is crucial.
• Good Board Control: You should be able to control your board effectively in the air and upon landing.
• Wave Reading: Understanding wave sections and knowing where to initiate the maneuver is vital.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Varial Surf

Follow these steps to learn the varial surf:

Step 1: Approach and Setup

Paddle into a wave with a clean face, aiming for a section that offers a good launch pad. As you approach the section, perform a strong bottom turn to generate speed and set yourself up for the air. Keep your weight centered and your eyes focused on the section ahead.

Step 2: The Ollie and Rotation

As you reach the lip of the wave, initiate an ollie by pushing down on your back foot and popping the board into the air. Simultaneously, kick or flick the tail of the board with your back foot to initiate the 180-degree rotation. This is the most critical part of the varial surf, requiring precise timing and coordination.

Step 3: Mid-Air Control

While the board is rotating, maintain a balanced stance and keep your eyes focused on the landing. Use your arms to help control your rotation and keep your body aligned with the board. Try to spot your landing as early as possible to prepare for impact.

Step 4: Landing the Varial Surf

As the board completes the 180-degree rotation, aim to land with your feet over the fins and your weight centered. Absorb the impact by bending your knees and keeping your core engaged. Ride away smoothly, maintaining your balance and control.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Learning the varial surf can be challenging, and it’s common to make mistakes along the way. Here are some common errors and tips on how to avoid them:

• Not Enough Speed: Insufficient speed will make it difficult to get enough air and complete the rotation. Make sure to generate ample speed with a strong bottom turn.
• Poor Timing: Incorrect timing of the ollie and rotation can lead to an incomplete spin or a messy landing. Practice your timing by visualizing the maneuver and focusing on the wave section.
• Lack of Board Control: Poor board control in the air will make it difficult to maintain balance and land smoothly. Practice basic airs and board control exercises to improve your skills.
• Leaning Back Too Much: Leaning back too much during the rotation can cause you to fall backward. Keep your weight centered and your core engaged to maintain balance.

Advanced Varial Surf Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basic varial surf, you can start exploring advanced variations:

Varial to Fakie

This involves landing the varial surf in a fakie (switch stance) position. It requires even more board control and coordination. [See also: Riding Switch]

Bigspin Varial

A Bigspin varial surf combines a 360-degree body rotation with the 180-degree board rotation. This is a highly technical maneuver that requires a lot of practice.

Adding Grabs

Adding a grab to your varial surf can add style and complexity to the trick. Common grabs include indy, mute, and tail grabs.

Equipment Considerations for Varial Surfing

The right equipment can make a significant difference when attempting the varial surf. Consider the following:

• Surfboard: A shorter, wider board with a flatter rocker can be ideal for aerial maneuvers. Look for boards designed for performance surfing.
• Fins: Stiffer fins can provide more drive and control, which is important for generating speed and landing airs.
• Traction Pad: A good traction pad will provide grip and control, especially during landings.

Training and Progression

Progressing in varial surfing requires consistent practice and a structured approach. Here’s a suggested training plan:

1. Warm-up: Start with a thorough warm-up to prepare your body for the demands of surfing.
2. Practice Basic Airs: Spend time practicing basic airs and board control exercises.
3. Visualize: Visualize the varial surf maneuver in your mind before attempting it.
4. Start Small: Begin with small waves and gradually increase the size as you gain confidence.
5. Film Yourself: Film your attempts and review the footage to identify areas for improvement.
6. Get Feedback: Ask experienced surfers for feedback on your technique.

The Future of Varial Surfing

The varial surf and other aerial maneuvers continue to evolve, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in surfing. As technology advances and surfers become more skilled, we can expect to see even more innovative and complex tricks in the future. The varial surf remains a staple in the repertoire of many professional surfers, and its influence can be seen in the progression of the sport. [See also: Pro Surfing Competitions]

Safety Considerations

Safety should always be a top priority when attempting advanced maneuvers like the varial surf. Always surf within your abilities, wear appropriate protective gear, and be aware of your surroundings. If you’re unsure about a section or the conditions, err on the side of caution.

By understanding the fundamentals, practicing consistently, and focusing on safety, you can master the varial surf and add a new dimension to your surfing repertoire. The varial surf is a challenging but rewarding maneuver that can elevate your surfing to the next level. It requires dedication, patience, and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. With the right approach, you can unlock the potential of the varial surf and experience the thrill of landing this iconic trick.

The key to a successful varial surf lies in the subtle nuances of timing, board control, and wave selection. Don’t be discouraged by initial failures; each attempt provides valuable feedback that can help you refine your technique. Remember to focus on the fundamentals, stay committed to your training, and always prioritize safety. The varial surf is not just a trick; it’s a testament to the ongoing evolution of surfing and the limitless potential of human skill and creativity.

Mastering the varial surf also opens doors to other advanced maneuvers and variations. As you become more comfortable with the rotation and landing, you can begin to experiment with different grabs, spins, and combinations. The possibilities are endless, and the journey of learning and progression is what makes surfing such a rewarding and captivating sport.