Think you're too old to start surfing — or stuck as an intermediate forever? What if a longboard legend told you it’s not too late, and the path forward is more fun than you ever imagined?
In this laid-back yet wisdom-packed episode, Wingnut (yes, from Endless Summer 2) opens up about surf coaching, late-bloomer breakthroughs, why most adults pick the wrong board, and how elite-level surfers actually think about wave selection. Whether you're an intermediate hitting a plateau or a stoked beginner, this conversation reveals what really unlocks better surfing — and why most surf instruction misses the mark.
Learn why longboards aren't just beginner tools — and how to actually progress faster by using them
Understand how wave selection and lineup strategy is the #1 overlooked skill in recreational surfing
Discover why most adult surfers are held back by psychology more than physical ability — and how to change that
Play this episode now and learn how to stop plateauing and start flowing — with advice from one of surfing’s most charismatic coaches.
Key Points
Wingnut shares his background in surf coaching, including his work with the O'Neill Surf Academy in Europe and his current role guiding private surf trips and coaching adults.
Wingnut discusses the challenges adult surfers face, particularly time constraints due to family responsibilities, and how these factors affect their progress in surfing.
Wingnut explains his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of wave selection and initial positioning in the lineup for successful surfing.
Wingnut shares insights on overcoming timidness and improving one's position in the lineup to enhance surfing experience and effectiveness.
Wingnut describes the transformative experience of surfing challenging waves like Cloudbreak and how it improves overall surfing skills.
Wingnut highlights the significance of choosing the right surfboard size and type based on wave conditions and personal skill level for optimal surfing performance.
Wingnut emphasizes the importance of adaptability and learning from mistakes in surfing, advocating for surfing without a leash to enhance self-reliance and contemplation of errors.
Wingnut discusses the environmental impact of surfboard manufacturing and advocates for choosing high-quality, durable surfboards over cheaper, disposable options to promote sustainability.
Wingnut recommends supporting local surfboard manufacturers and highlights the benefits of investing in long-lasting, high-quality surfboards.
surfmastery.com/podcast/69wingnut
For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we’ll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we’re here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.