Big wave surfing

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Big wave surfing is a discipline in surfing where riders paddle into waves which are at least 20 feet (6,2 m) high, on surf boards known as "guns" or "rhino chasers". The bigger the wave, the faster it travels, and the bigger the surf board needed to catch it. A larger board allows a rider to paddle fast enough to catch the wave and has the advantage of being more stable, but it also limits their maneuverability.

This discipline in surfing was the origin of the cross-over sport known as tow-in surfing. While many riders participate in both sports, they remain very distinct activities. Tow-In Surfing is only for the most experienced of big wave surfers.

Big wave surfing movies

• Riding Giants (2004)


• Billabong Odyssey (2004)


• Biggest Wednesday - Condition Black (2001)