This tutorial breaks down the snap (re-entry or off the lip) as an explosive maneuver performed in the critical part of the wave, generally following a sharp bottom turn. When performed with speed, power, and control, it is one of the most satisfying maneuvers in surfing.
Key Takeaways & Tips
Snap Definition
A snap is an explosive off the lip maneuver. The surfer reaches the lip at an angle between 50 and 90 degrees, then rotates the upper body with the core engaged to sharply change the direction of travel, setting up the next maneuver down the line.
Rotation and Core Engagement
As you come off the bottom, the arm that reached down to the wave face should now be swept behind you. This is used to rotate the upper body and load you up like a spring to hit the section, keeping the core engaged throughout.
Wave Selection
Snaps are best done on three sections: 1) close to the crest on the running part of the wave, 2) a section down the line that is crumbling (perfect for foam climb snaps), or 3) a closeout section coming toward you (be mindful of the impact zone) [5:17].
Bottom Turn Setup
Start your bottom turn low and compressed, keeping the weight slightly over your front knee. Reach out and touch the wave face with your trailing arm, and keep your eyes locked on the section you want to hit.
Landing and Compression
As you come off the lip, rotate and compress back down. Bring your arms down low and bend from the knees and waist. This ensures balance, absorbs impact, and sets you up for your next maneuver [7:06].
Backhand Snap Difference
The main difference is that on the backhand, your back faces the section during the turn. Therefore, it’s critical to make sure you turn your head to rotate back and look toward the bottom of the wave before you hit the section, otherwise you risk getting drilled [9:44].
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watching Your Spray
Never look back to watch your spray. Where your eyes go, your shoulders go, your hips go, and your board goes, so if you look off the back of the wave, that’s most likely where you will end up.
Snapping on Flat Sections
Do not try to perform a snap on a flat section or where there is no lip present, as the lip’s momentum is needed to drop back down. This results in bogging the rail, losing speed, or falling off the back.
Leaning Too Far Back
Do not lean back into your turns thinking it will make them look bigger or throw more spray. You must stay low and compressed with weight slightly over the front knee to maintain control and drive.
Incorrect Board Selection
Choosing an unsuitable board (like a Single Fin or longboard) will make learning the maneuver much harder. A high-performance shortboard is best for the learning stage.