Table of Contents

Unlocking the Secrets of the Varial Surf Maneuver: A Comprehensive Guide

The varial surf maneuver is a thrilling and visually captivating trick that adds a significant level of flair to any surfer’s repertoire. Combining elements of both an air and a spin, the varial surf move is a testament to a surfer’s skill, balance, and timing. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of the varial surf, providing a detailed breakdown of the steps involved, essential tips for mastering the trick, and insights into the equipment and conditions that best facilitate its execution. Whether you’re an aspiring intermediate surfer looking to expand your trick list or simply a surf enthusiast intrigued by the dynamics of this impressive aerial, this article aims to provide a thorough understanding of the varial surf.

Understanding the Varial: The Basics

Before attempting the varial surf, it’s crucial to understand what it entails. A varial surf is essentially a frontside pop shove-it combined with an air. The board rotates 180 degrees behind the surfer while they are airborne, landing back on the wave facing the opposite direction. This maneuver requires a good understanding of board control, timing, and the ability to commit fully to the rotation. It’s not a beginner trick, but with the right preparation and practice, it’s an achievable goal for intermediate surfers.

Prerequisites: Skills and Foundation

Mastering the varial surf requires a solid foundation in several fundamental surfing skills. These include:

Pop-up Proficiency: A consistent and rapid pop-up is essential for generating the speed and momentum needed for the air.
Frontside Turns: Comfortable and controlled frontside turns are necessary for setting up the approach to the wave.
Basic Airs: Familiarity with basic airs, even small ones, provides a crucial understanding of being airborne and landing smoothly.
Shove-it/Pop Shove-it (Skateboarding): While not strictly surfing, the concept of a shove-it from skateboarding translates directly to the board rotation in a varial surf. Practicing this on flat ground can significantly improve your understanding of the rotation.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Varial Surf

Breaking down the varial surf into manageable steps can make the learning process less daunting:

Step 1: Approach and Setup

Choose a wave with a clean, open face that offers a good ramp. Approach the wave at a slight angle, setting up for a frontside turn. Generate speed, but maintain control.

Step 2: The Pop

As you approach the lip of the wave, compress your body by bending your knees and crouching low. This is crucial for generating power for the pop. At the peak of your compression, explode upwards, using your legs to drive the board off the wave. The pop should be powerful and controlled.

Step 3: The Rotation

Simultaneously with the pop, initiate the 180-degree rotation by scooping your back foot behind you. Think of it like a frontside pop shove-it on a skateboard. The scoop should be decisive and controlled, ensuring the board rotates smoothly. Use your arms to help guide the rotation and maintain balance.

Step 4: The Air and Spotting the Landing

As the board rotates, keep your eyes focused on the landing. Spotting your landing is critical for sticking the trick. Keep your body centered over the board and anticipate the impact.

Step 5: The Landing

Aim to land with both feet on the board, slightly bent at the knees to absorb the impact. Distribute your weight evenly to maintain balance. As you land, continue to ride out the wave, maintaining control and flow.

Tips for Mastering the Varial Surf

Mastering the varial surf takes time and dedication. Here are some tips to accelerate your progress:

Start Small: Don’t try to go huge right away. Begin with smaller airs and gradually increase the height as you become more comfortable with the rotation.
Visualize: Before each attempt, visualize the entire maneuver in your mind. This mental rehearsal can significantly improve your performance.
Commit: Hesitation is the enemy of the varial surf. Once you initiate the rotation, commit fully to the trick.
Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. The more you practice, the more natural the movements will become.
Film Yourself: Recording your attempts can help you identify areas for improvement. Analyze your technique and make adjustments accordingly.
Learn from Others: Watch videos of professional surfers performing the varial surf. Pay attention to their technique and try to emulate their movements. [See also: Pro Surfer Varial Tutorial]
Use a Trampoline: Practicing the rotation on a trampoline can help you develop the muscle memory and coordination needed for the trick.

Equipment Considerations

The right equipment can make a significant difference in your ability to perform the varial surf:

Surfboard: A shorter, wider board with a flatter rocker is generally preferred for aerial maneuvers. This type of board provides more floatation and makes it easier to generate speed.
Fins: Stiffer fins can provide more drive and control, while more flexible fins can make the board feel more responsive. Experiment with different fin setups to find what works best for you.
Traction Pad: A good traction pad is essential for maintaining grip on the board, especially during the pop and landing.

Ideal Conditions for Learning the Varial Surf

The right conditions can significantly increase your chances of success when learning the varial surf. Look for:

Clean Waves: Clean, well-shaped waves provide a better ramp for launching airs.
Offshore Winds: Offshore winds can help hold the wave up and make it easier to stay in the air.
Moderate Size: Waves that are too small won’t provide enough power, while waves that are too big can be intimidating. Aim for waves that are head-high to slightly overhead.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with proper instruction and practice, it’s easy to make mistakes when learning the varial surf. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Not Committing: Hesitating during the rotation is a surefire way to fail. Commit fully to the trick.
Leaning Back: Leaning back during the pop can cause you to lose balance and fall off the back of the board. Keep your weight centered over the board.
Not Spotting the Landing: Failing to spot your landing can lead to a messy and uncontrolled landing. Keep your eyes focused on where you want to land.
Using the Wrong Equipment: Using a board that is too long or too narrow can make it difficult to perform the trick. Choose a board that is appropriate for aerial maneuvers.
Trying Too Soon: Attempting the varial surf before mastering the prerequisites can lead to frustration and injury. Build a solid foundation of basic skills first.

Progression Beyond the Varial

Once you’ve mastered the varial surf, the possibilities are endless. You can start experimenting with variations, such as the backside varial surf, or combine it with other tricks to create even more complex maneuvers. The varial surf is a stepping stone to more advanced aerial surfing, opening up a whole new world of possibilities.

The Allure of the Varial Surf

The varial surf is more than just a trick; it’s a statement. It demonstrates a surfer’s skill, creativity, and willingness to push the boundaries of what’s possible on a wave. The feeling of landing a varial surf is exhilarating, and the visual impact of the maneuver is undeniable. It’s a trick that is sure to impress both fellow surfers and spectators alike. The varial surf truly represents the progressive and innovative spirit of modern surfing. So, grab your board, find a good wave, and start practicing. With dedication and perseverance, you too can unlock the secrets of the varial surf.

Whether you are a seasoned surfer or just starting out, understanding the intricacies of maneuvers like the varial surf can greatly enhance your appreciation for the sport. Keep practicing, stay safe, and enjoy the ride!