SUP Wise Skill Level (SUP Surfing Intermediate)

Overview

The ASI SUP Surfing Intermediate Level identifies a competent surf paddler who has advanced beyond simply catching waves to actively riding the green wave face.

At this level, you possess the technical skill, ocean reading ability, and board control required to confidently handle peeling waves up to 4 feet.

Aim

Perform and link intermediate level SUP Surfing manoeuvres (bottom turn, top turn, cutback on forehand and backhand) with correct use of paddle, in surf 3ft to 4ft.

Environment Location and Conditions

SUP Surfing intermediate level locations are defined as:

  • Surf 3ft - 4ft in (1 - 1.2 metres)

  • Green face / peeling waves

  • Beach break

  • Minimal wind speed (less than 12 knots, offshore winds less than 10 knots)

  • Rips and channel present

Equipment

  • SUP surf stand up paddle board

  • Paddle

  • Long leash

Skills and Knowledge

Pre-requisite

Water Safety

  • Able to swim 200 metres (656ft)

    And able to swim from surf break back to shore (distance depends on where you are surfing) 

Environment & Safety

  • Identify SUP surf hazards and self rescue techniques at the intermediate level

  • Choose a safe SUP surf location

  • Demonstrate correct wipe-out and mount/dismount

  • Demonstrate correct SUP etiquette

Equipment & Clothing

  • Choose suitable SUP surfing board and accessories

  • Choose suitable SUP surfing clothing

SUP Surfing Skills

  • Choose a safe place for entering and exiting the water

  • Identify and use rips and channels

  • Negotiate broken and unbroken waves

  • Identify correct paddling out protocol

  • Choose the correct waves to ride

  • Identify the correct take off position

  • Correctly ride the wave by understanding how body weight and speed affect SUP surfing

  • Use the paddle correctly to assist ability to perform manoeuvres

  • Identify how to turn your board

  • Identify methods to get off the wave

  • How to wipe out safely at the intermediate level

SUP Surfing Manoeuvres

Perform and link intermediate level SUP surfing manoeuvres, with control, and correct use of paddle, on backhand and forehand.

  • Bottom turn

  • Top turn

  • Cutback

  • Trim