The aerial (or ‘air’) is one of surfing’s most difficult and sought-after maneuvers. This tutorial breaks down the basics of the straight air and the frontside air reverse, emphasizing that the timing, approach angle, and landing projection are key to success.
Key Takeaways & Tips
Approach and Speed
You need speed to do airs, but this does not require racing down an entire wave. You can generate a lot of speed in a short space of time by staying right near the pocket of the wave. Once you have speed, do a shallow bottom turn and get low to your board; touching the face of the wave with your hand is a great reference point.
Stance
Widen your stance to help keep you centered over the board, which is essential throughout the maneuver.
Entry Angle
The angle you hit the lip for an air is very important. About a 30-degree angle off the top will make your chances of success better. Too lateral and you end up doing a floater; too vertical and you risk falling off the back.
The Launch
At the moment you hit the lip, your legs should be extended so that the lip can then push the board up in towards your body as you bend your legs. The timing of hitting the lip is what should send you into the air. This must be a power move, not just a casual jump.
Projection
You must project forward (toward the beach) as well as upward. You must land in a way that allows you to continue surfing, as the wave is still moving beneath you.
Landing
Land as softly as possible, absorbing the shock like you would from a small jump and maintaining a compressed position. If you are doing a rotational air, landing on the nose of the board is ideal to allow for a softer transition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Hitting the Lip Too Early
Hitting the lip too early means you don’t actually get into the air, even though your body performs the jumping motion.
Landing Off the Back
Landing the air on the back of the wave (by forgetting the wave is moving forward) will cause you to get caught up in the whitewater and fall off the back.
Straightening Legs
If you straighten your legs too much, you can’t keep your board underneath you, and you will fall off the board.