Table of Contents

Varial Surf: Mastering the Aerial Revolution in Surfing

The world of surfing is constantly evolving, pushing boundaries and redefining what’s possible on a wave. Among the most exciting developments in recent years is the rise of aerial surfing, and at the forefront of this aerial revolution is the varial surf maneuver. This article dives deep into the intricacies of the varial, exploring its origins, techniques, equipment, and the surfers who are pushing its limits.

What is a Varial in Surfing?

A varial surf trick, at its core, is a skateboard-inspired maneuver where the surfer rotates the board 180 degrees in the air, landing back on the wave facing the opposite direction. It’s a complex move requiring precision, timing, and a healthy dose of courage. Unlike a simple air, the varial demands a complete rotation of the board, adding a significant layer of difficulty.

The varial is often confused with other aerial tricks, particularly the shove-it. While both involve rotating the board, the varial requires the surfer to be completely airborne during the rotation, while a shove-it typically involves the tail of the board staying in contact with the water. The varial presents a steeper learning curve but offers a greater reward in terms of style and progression.

The History of the Varial in Surfing

The varial surf maneuver, like many innovations in surfing, has roots in skateboarding. As surfers sought to emulate the tricks they were seeing on land, the varial naturally emerged as a goal. Early attempts were often clumsy, but as boards and techniques improved, the varial became more refined and achievable. Pioneers like Christian Fletcher and Matt Archbold started incorporating aerials into their surfing in the late 1980s and early 1990s, laying the groundwork for the varial and other aerial tricks.

While pinpointing the exact moment the first successful varial was landed is difficult, it’s undeniable that the trick gained prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Surfers like Josh Kerr and Julian Wilson helped popularize the varial, showcasing its potential in competition and pushing the boundaries of what was possible. Today, the varial is a staple in the repertoire of any aspiring professional surfer.

Techniques for Mastering the Varial

Learning the varial requires a solid foundation in basic surfing skills and a dedication to practice. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:

Approach: Choose a wave with a steep, ramp-like section. Speed is crucial, but control is paramount.
Pop: As you approach the ramp, compress your body and then explode upwards, using your legs to generate lift.
Rotation: Initiate the rotation by scooping your back foot and simultaneously pushing forward with your front foot. The goal is to rotate the board 180 degrees.
Spot the Landing: Keep your eyes focused on where you want to land. This will help you maintain balance and control.
Landing: Absorb the impact by bending your knees. Aim to land with your weight evenly distributed over your feet.
Ride Away: Once you’ve landed, maintain your balance and ride away smoothly.

Drills on land, such as practicing the rotation on a skateboard or trampoline, can be incredibly helpful in developing the necessary muscle memory and coordination. Visualize the trick repeatedly to mentally prepare and improve your chances of success.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many surfers struggle with the varial due to common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

Insufficient Speed: Not enough speed makes it difficult to generate enough lift and rotation.
Poor Pop: A weak pop will limit your airtime and make the rotation harder to complete.
Over-Rotation or Under-Rotation: Rotating too much or not enough will result in a failed landing.
Leaning Back: Leaning back during the rotation shifts your weight and makes it difficult to control the board.
Looking Down: Looking down throws off your balance and makes it harder to spot the landing.

Patience is key. The varial is a challenging trick that requires time and dedication to master. Don’t get discouraged by early failures. Keep practicing and refining your technique, and eventually, you’ll land it.

Equipment for Varial Surfing

While any surfboard can technically be used to attempt a varial, certain board characteristics make the trick easier. Shorter, wider boards with a flatter rocker are generally preferred. These boards offer more stability and are easier to rotate in the air.

Fins also play a crucial role. Smaller, more flexible fins allow for easier release and rotation. Many surfers who focus on aerials opt for quad fin setups, which provide a good balance of speed and control.

Beyond the board and fins, a good leash is essential. Losing your board after a failed varial attempt can be dangerous and frustrating. A reliable leash will keep your board close and prevent it from becoming a hazard to other surfers.

The Future of Varial Surf and Aerial Surfing

The varial surf maneuver is just one piece of the larger aerial surfing puzzle. As technology advances and surfers continue to push the limits, we can expect to see even more innovative and complex aerial tricks emerge. The future of surfing is undoubtedly in the air, and the varial will continue to be a fundamental building block for future generations of aerialists.

Competitions are increasingly incorporating aerial sections, rewarding surfers who can execute high-flying maneuvers with precision and style. This trend is further incentivizing surfers to learn and perfect tricks like the varial.

Notable Surfers Known for Their Varial Skills

Several surfers have become synonymous with the varial and other aerial tricks. These athletes have consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible on a wave and have inspired countless others to take to the air.

Filipe Toledo: Known for his incredible speed and agility, Toledo is one of the most explosive aerial surfers in the world. His varials are often performed with remarkable height and style.
Gabriel Medina: Another Brazilian powerhouse, Medina is renowned for his technical prowess and ability to land complex aerial maneuvers. His varials are consistently clean and controlled.
Italo Ferreira: Ferreira’s raw power and fearless approach make him a formidable aerial surfer. He attacks waves with reckless abandon, often throwing varials in critical sections.
John John Florence: While known for his smooth style and tube-riding skills, Florence is also a capable aerialist. His varials are characterized by their effortless flow and precision.

These surfers are just a few examples of the many athletes who are pushing the limits of aerial surfing. Their dedication and innovation are shaping the future of the sport.

Conclusion

The varial surf maneuver is a testament to the constant evolution of surfing. It represents a fusion of skateboarding and surfing, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a wave. While challenging to master, the varial offers a unique blend of style and progression, making it a valuable addition to any surfer’s repertoire. As aerial surfing continues to evolve, the varial will undoubtedly remain a fundamental trick, inspiring future generations of surfers to take to the skies. [See also: Advanced Surfing Techniques], [See also: Surfboard Design for Aerials]