"Respecting Open Waves"

Surf Etiquette: Diving into the World of Drop-Ins

As a surfer, you've probably encountered your fair share of drop-ins. These are waves that have just been ridden by another surfer, leaving their board on the water's surface. While it may seem like an easy way to ride in for a few minutes, dropping in can be a breach of etiquette and even lead to conflicts with other surfers.

Let's say you're surfing at Pipeline, one of the most iconic surf spots in Hawaii. You've just ridden a beautiful wave all the way to shore when another surfer paddles up to you and drops in beside your board. The other surfer is smiling and gives you a nod of approval as they ride their own wave.

This is an example of dropping in, where someone simply drops into the water without giving the surf spot or other surfers any warning. While it may seem convenient, dropping in can be frustrating for other surfers who have worked hard to get out on the water and enjoy the ride.

Recognizing an Open Wave: Judging Shoulder Height and Distance

So, how do you know when a wave is open? Here are some tips to help you recognize an open wave:

First, pay attention to the shoulder height of the wave. If it's around your chest or waist level, it's likely riding on top of an open wave. In general, if you can see your head above water, the wave should be riding.

Next, consider the distance between your board and the edge of the wave. If there are any obstacles in the way, such as rocks or other surfers' boards, the wave may be a bit smaller than expected. On the other hand, if the wave is just sitting on top of you with no visible obstacles, it's likely riding shoulder height.

Judging Shoulder Height and Distance

Here are some specific scenarios to help you judge whether a wave is open or not:

• Shoulder Height: If your board is riding at around chest or waist level, that's usually an open wave. For example, if the water is at about 4-6 feet deep and your board is sitting just above it, that would be considered an open wave.
• Distance: If you can see your head above water when looking over the shoulder of a fellow surfer riding on top of the wave, that's usually a good indication that there are no obstacles in the way. For example, if you can see the other person's hair or body as they're riding on top of the wave, it's likely an open wave.
• Obstacles: If there are any visible obstacles in the water, such as rocks or other surfers' boards, that could potentially crash your board and wipe out. In this case, the wave may be smaller than expected.

Respecting Open Waves

When you do spot a wave that's open, it's essential to respect the surfers who are riding on top of them. This means giving them space and not trying to sneak up behind them or try to get into their wave.

Here are some specific tips for respecting open waves:

• Give Space: When approaching an open wave, give the other surfer plenty of space. Don't try to cut in front of them or try to ride on top of their wave.
• Respect their Wave: If you're riding with a group, make sure to keep your speed and weight evenly distributed so that everyone has enough room to ride comfortably.
• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings when dropping in on an open wave. Watch for other surfers, obstacles in the water, and changing weather conditions.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable surfing experience for yourself and others. Remember to always respect the surf spot and other surfers who are riding the waves. Surf Etiquette: Drop-Ins at Pipeline

Scenario	Explanation
Shoulder Height	If your board is riding at around chest or waist level, that's usually an open wave. Examples include waves with water depth of 4-6 feet and your board sitting just above the surface.
Distance	If you can see your head above water when looking over the shoulder of a fellow surfer riding on top of the wave, that's likely an open wave. Examples include waves where the other person's hair or body is visible as they're riding on top of the wave.
Obstacles	If there are any visible obstacles in the water, such as rocks or other surfers' boards, that could potentially crash your board and wipe out. In this case, the wave may be smaller than expected.

Respecting Open Waves

When you spot an open wave, it's essential to respect the surfers who are riding on top of them. Here are some specific tips:

Tip	Description
Give Space	When approaching an open wave, give the other surfer plenty of space. Don't try to cut in front of them or try to ride on top of their wave.
Respect Their Wave	If you're riding with a group, make sure to keep your speed and weight evenly distributed so that everyone has enough room to ride comfortably.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings	Always be aware of your surroundings when dropping in on an open wave. Watch for other surfers, obstacles in the water, and changing weather conditions.