“Someday I want to throw a big spray with a clean rip!”
If that’s you, you’re not alone. Many beginner and intermediate surfers want to learn ripping, but don’t know the exact steps to get there.
This article explains how to perform a ripping maneuver, step by step, with practical English phrases you can use and remember.
1. What Is Ripping?
Ripping is a sharp, powerful turn off the lip that sends spray flying.
It requires speed, timing, and good body control.
English Phrase
- “Ripping means turning the board sharply off the lip.”
2. Step 1: Generate Speed
Speed is the foundation of every powerful maneuver.
Without enough speed, the board simply won’t come around.
What to focus on
- Pump with smooth up-and-down motions
- Stay in the power zone of the wave
- Avoid unnecessary movements on the flat section
English Phrase
- “Stay in the power zone to build speed.”
3. Step 2: Improve Your Bottom Turn
Many coaches say “Your bottom turn determines your top turn.”
That’s how crucial it is.
Key points
- Bend your knees deeply to load energy
- Look where you want to hit the lip
- Shift more weight to your back foot
English Phrase
- “A strong bottom turn sets up a powerful top turn.”
4. Step 3: Approach the Lip
The right angle and timing make the difference.
Key points
- Angle the board upward toward the lip
- Keep your momentum flowing
- Hit the lip just before it breaks
English Phrase
- “Hit the lip just before it breaks.”
5. Step 4: Lead with Your Shoulders
Your board won’t turn unless your upper body leads the motion.
Think: Shoulders → Board → Fins
Key points
- Rotate your shoulders first
- Keep your eyes on the exit of the turn
- Let your upper body pull the board around
English Phrase
- “Rotate your shoulders first to guide the board.”
6. Step 5: Drive Through Your Fins
The height of your spray depends on how effectively you use your fins.
Key points
- Push firmly through your back foot
- Keep the board at a controlled angle
- Shift your weight forward as you come down
English Phrase
- “Push through your back foot to throw spray.”
7. Step 6: Smooth Re-entry
A clean landing keeps your ride going.
Key points
- Look ahead to where you want to land—not at your feet
- Absorb the impact with soft knees
- Regain speed immediately after landing
English Phrase
- “Land softly and flow into the next section.”
8. Practice Menu
Here are a few practical drills:
- Speed-only practice runs
- Five consecutive stable bottom turns
- Light top-turn drills on smaller waves
- Use an action camera to check shoulder rotation
English Phrase
- “Focus on one skill at a time.”
Conclusion: Ripping Requires Basics, Timing, and Flow
Although ripping looks flashy, its foundation is simple:
speed, solid basics, good timing, and proper body rotation.
✔ Generate speed
✔ Build a stronger bottom turn
✔ Approach the lip at the right moment
✔ Lead with your upper body
✔ Use your fins to release spray
✔ Land smoothly and continue the ride
Master these elements, and your surfing will jump to the next level.
English Phrase (Summary)
- “Good technique starts with solid basics.”
