What is surf kayaking?

Surf kayaking is riding the waves in a closed cockpit kayak. You can do it in any boat. However a boat with rails surfs better than a round hulled boat. Surf kayaks are predominantly constructed of fibre glass or carbon Kevlar materials to make them light and stiff. A purpose built surf kayak will run rings around a plastic river kayak.

Surf kayak manoeuvres are dynamic, controlled moves using the steepest part of the wave near to the "pocket" of the wave.

Where Can I surf kayak in Scotland?

Any beach will be a good start for surf kayaking. It is essential to ensure you are not out of your depth in the water. In that if you swim you can get back to shore easily. There are many water hazards, even on a benign looking beach. Please seek advice from qualified instructors before you enter the water.

Who do I contact to start surf kayaking?

Contact any of the surf kayak committee or enquire through your local club. The coaches in your club should be able to direct you towards surf kayak coaches in Scotland. If they can't then let us know and we can liaise with your club.

Recomended reading

Surf Kayaking: The Essential Guide By Simon Hammond

This 168 page book contains all you'll ever need to know about the sport of surf kayaking. Easy to read text and 90 fantastic full page photo's of surf kayakers from around the world. The book is split into nine comprehensive chapters covering everthing from getting started to the most advanced techniques with a very interesting chapter entitled "What the Expert See's". Simon's use of easy to understand descriptions and analogies to other sports makes this a very enjoyable read.

Kayak Surfing By Bill Mathos

A modern, illustrated guide to the progressive sport of kayak surfing, which covers in detail the basic principles of surfing, equipment, surfing etiquette, advanced techniques and the psychology and philosophy of ocean wave-riding. This book is equally suited to the expert paddler and to the beginner considering taking up surfing in a kayak. This book effortlessly delivers skill and technique advice that will have other riders in the surf open-mouthed with surprise and envy.