This quick trick tip breaks down the frontside floater maneuver. It highlights the main reasons for performing a floater—to clear broken sections to get to a new part of the wave or to finish off a ride nicely—and focuses on the body mechanics needed for a clean entry and exit.
Key Takeaways & Tips
Floater Purpose
The main reasons for doing a floater are to get over sections to make it into the new section of the wave or to finish off a wave nicely.
Body Opening on Approach
As you come to the closing section, you must **open your shoulders and your body** towards the wave to prepare for the maneuver.
Weightless Glide
Go **as light as possible** onto the lip, compress a bit, and try to stay steady while riding the foam.
Exit and Compression
As you finish the maneuver, you should shift your body towards the **beach and the nose** of the board and compress right out to regain control and speed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Failing to Open the Body
If you do not open your shoulders and body toward the wave on approach, you will be unable to execute the turn and maintain a steady line across the lip.
Being Heavy on the Lip
Applying too much weight while going onto the lip will cause the board to sink into the foam or whitewater, resulting in a loss of speed and a fall.
Landing Sideways
Failing to shift your body and the nose toward the beach as you exit will cause the board to land sideways, stopping your speed and momentum.