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My brother’s truck decided to stop working and I was looking for any excuse to get a van of some kind. So I gave him the keys to my Lexus. I began the hunt for my perfect river surfing mobile. All my friends have sprinter vans. So that’s where I started.

It is going to take me to all the best waves I can think of.

I looked at full size sprinter style vans and cargo vans. But they all felt empty. They just didn’t seem to fit my lifestyle. I needed something I would be able to balance between my home life and river surfing. Finally I found a mini van that was perfect for what I needed.

DIY river surfing camper

A Car that Fits your Lifestyle

This may not be the van everyone had in mind for me. But it is mine and it is perfect for my life. It gets better gas mileage than a sprinter or cargo. Has just about as much room as a cargo (4 ft X 8 ft). Oh yeah, and the seats fold into the floor! So I can take the bed platform out and easily accommodate passengers. Best part of it is that it is going to take me to all the best waves I can think of!

When I converted the van I made sure everything could easily be taken out and put back in! It’s like a transformer van that is super stealth. I mean who sees a mini van and thinks someone is camping out in it?! Take a look at the video to see my transformer conversion!

The post How to Turn your Vehicle into the Ultimate River Surfing Mobile appeared first on Riverbreak.

Design, Volume and Shape

When choosing a surfboard for the river the most important thing to think about is design. Would you rather surf a board shaped for the ocean or a board specifically shaped for a river? Don’t get me wrong an ocean board could do the trick just fine. I surfed on them for years. But nothing will beat a board shaped specifically for the river.

Volume is the next thing you want to think about. Volume of a board is really important because it is a board floatation. Most river waves are pretty mushy and a higher volume board will surf better and ride more waves than a lower volume board. A lighter construction and overall weight can help add to the volume of a board.

Nothing beats a board shaped specifically for the river.

Shape of the board is equally important. A lot of river waves will require a shorter board with proper nose and tail rocker to fit into the wave and surf well. From my personal experience a nose rocker should be anywhere from 3”-3.5” and a tail rocker from 1”-1.5”. You are also going to want to look for a little wider tail. A board with a wider tail is going to allow for more push while on the wave. Which means on a smaller and softer wave, your board will stay on the wave better.

One Board Quiver?

Would you rather surf a board shaped for the ocean?

A lot of people are looking for the answer for the one board quiver. There are really not many boards out there that will meet all these specifications and surf pretty much any wave you will encounter. The Badfish Sk8 is one of the few boards that I have found to be a perfect answer to the one quiver board. I ride the 5’ which is a whopping 48.5 liters. It has perfect tail and nose rocker. I know that it will surf the powerful high performance waves (like River Run Park, Boise and Bend), it will surf the mushier waves that require the higher volume (like Glenwood Surfer Left and other local small waves) and it will definitely surf big waves (Glenwood Surfer Right, Pipeline and Lunch Counter)

So I go back to the question everyone river surfer should ask themselves … Would you rather surf a board shaped for the ocean? Or, something shaped specifically for the river? Something that will perform well no matter what wave you end up at? It’s a no brainer!

Subscribe to my YouTube channel for more useful videos and tipps on river surfing!

The post How to Choose a River Surfboard appeared first on Riverbreak.

KB, What led you to become a shaper?

I really believe I was born to shape surfboards. It’s a calling. I see the boards finished before starting. Being an athlete that desires progression, life time in board sports plus my knowledge of river wave / river dynamics really inspired me to start. Looking back though I could feel it my entire life.

What is the shaping philosophy at Strongwater?

Leave it in the hands of the surfers.

What is it like being one of the few river surfboard shapers in the industry?

It’s sweet I have zero creative boundaries or influences. I have no idols or anything whom I’m trying to be or create. I can just create boards that work.

More and more rivers surfers are riding Strongwater surfboards. Why do your boards appeal to river surfers so much?

Strongwater Surfboards connect to surfers. Yes we started in the river but we connect to ocean surfers also. The boards start with me and for me it’s all about surfing and respect for the people and water, only reason I’m doing this period. So if you surf that is respectable and you relate to it, doesn’t matter where you surf. The design also is appealing, makes sense, simple but has lots of style. It’s been really cool to see the attention it has received here in the ocean. Just good timing with the way ocean surfing is progressing also with wave riding styles, airs and thinking outside the box.

You have been surfing and shaping in Cali all winter and learning from the industry’s best. Tell us something about your time in Cali, and why Cali?

Weather, Women and the Weed like Biggie said … No JK. I came to Cali because of progression and desire to take Strongwater Surfboards to a new level. I’m in the heart of surf industry and there is so much history here. Even though I’m doing my thing, I have ton of respect for surfing and its history. Many legends have been through the factory creating at one time. The dudes I’m working with have made a life of it, so I learn and feel inspired just being in the factory. The energy and being here progressing my craft, it’s perfect. It all starts with respect whether you are in the water or shaping bay. Thankful. Honestly I didn’t try to come here either, it just happened. Thats the cool stuff about Strongwater it’s real, it’s my life and not something I’m trying to do. It’s in my soul the universe literally called me here and I’m pretty sure I lived here in a past life.

How does the Cali series RUNT differ from the other RUNT models?

The Cali Runts come in 4 sizes. They are still hand made. However, instead of me shaping each board start to finish like in Montana, the boards are ruff cut by a CNC machine. I then finish shape the boards and pass them off to some of the best glassers and sanders in the world.

What makes the Cali RUNT the perfect river surfboard?

The design of the board makes it perfect. It performs on so many different wave types. The characteristics of the board also translate to all skill levels. If you rip and want to do big airs it does that. If you are learning and need stability it has that. The thing is trippy – slashes or toes on the nose it does it all.

The Cali RUNT river surfboard

What level of surfer would go for a Cali RUNT and why?

All levels … no joke!

What type of fin setup do you recommend with the Cali RUNT?

We put 5 fin boxes on the Runt so all options are available. For most river waves we ride thruster with a thumb drive as trailer fin. You get good speed plus balanced feel with that set-up. But really it comes down to the surfers, ability, style and wave.

Is the Cali RUNT a limited series?

No, Strongwater Surfboards all ship from Southern California now. This is where Surfboards come from. Getting started in Montana was awesome but this is the heart of surfing and were called here.

Spring is just around the corner and people will refresh their quiver for this season. How can the Cali RUNT be ordered?

Strongwater.surf or KB.strongwater@gmail.com

How can river surfers in Europe get their Cali RUNT?

Email KB.strongwater@gmail.com

What sizes and colours are available for the Cali RUNT?

Factory board models are clean and clear with black logos. Boards come in 4 sizes: 5’0 – 5’4 – 5’8 – 6’0 all the tech specs are available at Strongwater.surf. We can also custom build any size, color, materials or graphics.

The post Here Come The RUNTS: Surfboards Made For The River appeared first on Riverbreak.

• 1st place will take home a Catch Surf Beater Board (paid link)
• 2nd place: a prize pack from Surf the Greats
• 3rd place: a prize pack from Riverbreak

Share the stoke and best of luck to everyone!

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Photo: Surf Cabo Guide via Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

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bixbysurfboards@gmail.com 

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In river surfing even a small mistake can be fatal. If you get hit by your own surfboard or if you hit a rock you can lose consciousness and drown. A helmet can help prevent head trauma and thus loss of consciousness. But what should you look for when you go shopping? In this article we cover the most important things to consider before buying a new lid for your head. Towards the end of the article you’ll find a selection of both affordable and high-end helmets.

Here’s what you need to know to make the right choice.

Helmet Types

There are three basic types of watersport helmets: half-cut, full-cut and full face helmets.

Half-cut (or half-shell) helmets are similar to bicycle helmets. They sit above the ear and protect the top, back and side of your head. They are lighter weight and often more comfortable than full-shell helmets but offer less protection. Some half-cut helmets feature removable ear flaps to add warmth and protect your ears from damage and cold water.

Full-cut (or full-shell) helmets not only protect your head but provide extra protection by also covering your ears. As helmets might dampen the sound, full-cut helmets often include ear vents to improve hearing. In cold conditions, full-cut helmets not only add protection, but can also add some warmth to your ears. In very cold weather, you can wear a neoprene skull cap under your full-cut helmet for insulation against heat loss.

In extreme cases, whitewater paddlers also use full face helmets that look like motor cycle helmets and feature a visor and chin guard.

Components and Materials

A helmet consist of different components that are made of different materials. The price of helmets often reflect material choices, especially when it comes to shell and liner materials. Every helmet consists of the same four basic components:

• Shell: The outer component of the helmet; spreads the force of an impact over a broader area and protects your head against injuries from sharp objects.
• Liner: The cushioning component underneath the shell; absorbs the impact so less energy is transmitted to your head.
• Padding: Fit pads that can be arranged on the inner liner to adjust fit and comfort.
• Retention system: The straps that keep the helmet secured to your head.

Shell: Basically, there are two kinds of shells, plastic and composite, and opinions on them differ. While composite shells are praised for their strength and light weight, plastic helmets are recognized for their better flex and impact absorption. Manufacturers use a variety of terms for plastic shells such as PE, ABS or PC and there is a wide range of composites such as carbon fibre, fibreglass or Kevlar.

Liner: The foam liner of a helmet absorbs the impact of a hit so it won’t get straight to your head. Liners for non-watersport helmets are typically made of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), which is a single impact foam and therefore not the best choice for watersport helmets. The two most popular liner materials for watersport helmets are Expanded Poly-Propylene (EPP) and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), which are not affected by moisture and can take multiple impacts. Some helmets are lined with closed-cell foam, which is softer and basically the same material that camping mats are made of.

Padding: Helmets typically come with pads in different sizes and thickness to customize fit and maximize comfort. Pads may either be self-adhesive or attachted to the liner via a hook and loop fastening system. These pads can be cut or arranged in a variety of ways to fit your head.

Retention system: The straps of a river surfing helmet must be strong and reliable and securely hold the helmet in place. Almost all whitewater helmets have a chin-strap with a quick-release buckle that connects and tightens the helmet to your head. Good helmets also have an adjustable back head strap to give a firmer fit. Some even come with a magnetic buckle to ease operation with one hand or gloves while minimizing the risk of neck pinching.

Fit and Sizing

When buying a helmet for river surfing, as for any other sport, make sure you always measure your head properly and consider different brands, models and sizes of helmets. Helmets come in different shapes and some helmets can fit one shape of head while others fit another shape. Make sure your helmet fits snugly without pressure points. If a helmet feels loose and slides when you turn your head, it’s too big. The right helmet stays put even if the chinstrap is left undone.

Helmets for River Surfing

To date, there are no helmets specifically designed for river surfing. However, helmets for kayaking, wake-boarding or kitesurfing can perfectly be used in river surfing. A growing number of manufacturers are responding to the demand for safe and stylish watersport helmets, with Pro-Tec, Gath, Bern, Predator and WRSI being among the most popular ones. We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite watersport helmets to use for river surfing. Please note that we have not tested all these helmets but the ones below reflect a wide range of designs, features and prices.

WRSI Trident Composite

WRSI Trident Composite

The WRSI Trident (#ad) is a popular half-cut kayak helmet, featuring a lightweight, high-impact carbon composite shell combined with a polyurethane sub-shell and an EVA foam liner. It comes with nine foam pads that can be adjusted to fit different head sizes and shapes. Its interconnected retention system and an adjustable O-brace harness keep the helmet firmly in place. The WRSI Trident has a visor to keep the sun or water out of your face and comes in many different colours to suite everybody’s taste.

Gath Surf Convertible (SFC)

Gath Surf Convertible (SFC)

Gath prides the Surf Convertible (SFC) (#ad) on being the lightest, coolest and lowest profile Gath. The helmet is designed for ocean surfing and features removable ear protectors and foam forehead coverage that adds additional protection. The shell is made from high impact resistant ABS plastic and a non-absorbent, molded closed-cell foam liner. Its fit can be customized with comfort fit strips. Available accessories for the Gath SFC include a GoPro camera mount.

Pro-Tec Ace Wake

Pro-Tec Ace Wake

The Pro-Tec Ace Wake (#ad) features a high-impact ABS shell and a dual-density, waterproof EVA liner. It’s equipped with 16 open vent holes for ventilation and water drainage. The cupping ear protectors are removable. The helmet’s Head Lock fit system increases comfort and fit by cupping the back of your head. Overall, the Ace Wake combines durability and ultra light protection with great adjustability.

NRS Havoc Livery

NRS Havoc Livery

The NRS Havoc Livery (#ad) – described by NRS as the “one-size-fits-most solution to whitewater safety” – is an affordable option available in a selection of colours. It has a lightweight ABS plastic shell combined with an EVA foam liner for impact protection and FIT pads to provide comfort. The helmet is equipped with drainage/ventilation ports to let air in and water out and an adjustable chin strap. Its DialFit system lets you adjust the Havoc Livery to fit your head size. With its universal fit, the NRS Havoc Limery Helmet is a great choice if multiple people share the same helmet.

WRSI Current

WRSI Current

Like the NRS Havoc Limery, the WRSI Current (#ad) is designed to fit a range of head sizes. It’s made from ABS plastic with a polyurethane sub-shell and an EVA foam liner. The WRSI Current comes with foam pads that can be adjusted for a custom fit and its interconnected retention system and an adjustable O-brace harness keep the helmet in place. The WRSI Current Helmet comes in two models with or without vents to let water drain and air in. For those looking for ear protection, a third model, the WRSI Current Pro (#ad) adds removable ear pads for extra warmth and protection and a visor.

Bern Brighton H20

Bern Brighton H20

Bern’s Brighton H2O (#ad) is a watersports helmet specifically designed for women. It has an ABS shell combined with soft moisture wicking foam (Bern’s innovation “Brock” foam) with EVA and neoprene. The helmet is equipped with an adjustable chin strap and vents for drainage and greater breathability. If you’re looking for extra protection or warmth for your ears, you can upgrade the Brighton H20 with removable neoprene earpads that can simply be attached to the helmet with press-studs. For all male river surfers, Bern’s Macon H20 (#ad) is the male counterpart to the Brighton H20.

Available at Amazon (#ad)

Keep your head in one piece

Make sure you get a helmet that you’ll actually wear. Many shops will let you send a helmet back for refund or size change if you aren’t happy with the fit or design, so buying online is low risk. Be sure to look after your head – it’s the only one you have!

Note: Riverbreak is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.

The post Helmets for River Surfing: Buying Guide appeared first on Riverbreak.

How It Works

The BootieLeash connects from your wetsuit leg to the wetsuit bootie-heel noose keeping your wetsuit leg locked down and in place. It is comprised of two components:

1. a polyamide snap hook vertical eye and
2. a self-fastening Velcro strap.

The BootieLeash assembly can remain attached or disconnected to the bootie-heel noose after each use and also prevents water from being blown up the wetsuit leg. The device should only be used to connect the wetsuit leg to the wetsuit bootie heel noose. It should never be used for any other applications.

The History of BootieLeash

Michael Mednick, inventor of the BootieLeash, started to experiment with solutions to prevent his wetsuit leg from creeping up in the late 60s. Michael initially used duct tape while wearing wool socks under his booties, but due to frozen hands after surfing in ice cold waters of Virginia Beach, and the inability to remove the duct tape from the wetsuit leg this solution wasn’t really satisfying. In the 70s, Michael started to use various types of strings to hold the wetsuit leg down around the bootie calf. The strings, however, had to be tied so tightly that leg circulation was often nearly cut off.

In the 70s, Michael started to use various types of strings to hold the wetsuit leg down around the bootie calf.

In the 2000s, he cut the ankle-wrap portion of a surfing leash off, and tried this technique to secure the wetsuit leg to the bootie calf. Later, in 2012 Michael applied Velcro® straps, but the wetsuit leg creep was still occurring because there was no lock-down mechanism attached to wetsuit bootie from the wetsuit leg.

Then, in 2015, the first prototype BootieLeash was invented using random parts taken off a small folding beach cooler and parts purchased from a local sporting goods stores. This conceptual design, that when tested, performed marvellously and locked the wetsuit leg down and in place stopping the upward movement and creep of the wetsuit leg up the bootie ankle and calf. An innovative and inexpensive wetsuit leg to wetsuit bootie was now in the final conceptual stages that prevented wetsuit leg creep, and movement of the wetsuit leg to the top of the wetsuit bootie heel and calf.

Shop and Contact Information

• Website: bootieleash.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bootieleash
• Email: mikemednick@bootieleash.com
• Phone: Office (949) 441-7855, Cell (949) 463-3052

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A Munich based Action Sport Venture tells us about their vision about a holistic surfing experience. Learn what Sandro Stark, CEO of HIDRO has to say about surfing, passion and what makes a truly holistic surfing experience.

HIDRO gives river surfers full control over their fin setup.

As a team of four tech and surfing passionistas, we are currently working on a way to provide individualisation to the world of surfing. During our intense collaboration and co-creation with surfers and shapers we recognised one thing: Surfing is broken!

Shapers and small manufacturers around the world are building beautiful individually designed surfboards every day. But when it comes to selecting the right fins we face a high-complex and cheaply mass produced portfolio of fins dominated by two large monopolists.

We thought, that we are missing a piece to realise our full potential and to radically reduce complexity when surfers select their board setup. Right now we connect with pro surfers, shapers and board manufacturers to deliver a blueprint for a truly holistic surfing experience.

How Will This happen?

Right now, we believe that the shapers will be the best evangelists and change-makers for our technology. We’re planning to build an app or software that translates the boards style & measurements but also the weight and improvement areas of the surfer into a set of exactly tailored fins. We are also experimenting with a wide variety of materials. At the moment we are playing around with high-tech 3D-printing materials, combining glass and nylon to reach extraordinary stiffness or using slightly flexible materials with shape-memory.

Our technology will be available to every shaper and manufacturer around the world.

We are working together with Strongwater and created custom branded river surf fins for their boards. Quite recently big wave rider David Langer approached us – since then we have been tapping into new ultra-durable materials like titanium to provide the right fin for Dave and other big wave hunters.

In the near future we are going to develop a solution to make this technology available to every shaper and manufacturer across the world. We benefit from our large industry network that enables us to have fins manufactured locally. This helps everyone to reduce shipping costs and reduce the footprints we leave on our planet.

Right now we already ship the first 3D manufactured river surf middle fin that is based on sustainable resources such as castor oil.

Give It a Shot: 10% Discount for Riverbreak Readers

We teamed up with our friends from Riverbreak Magazine and offer a 10% discount for 1 month by using the promo code WEHEARTRVRBRK on www.hidrosurf.de. So, go visit our online shop and order a HIRDO fin for your board and feel the difference!

Looking forward to everything that’s coming and we are thrilled about every input, support, likes & shares. We are the drifters and dreamers. The wave-hunters. The pirates & poets. The lovers, the risk takers, the change-makers. #HIDRO

The post HIDRO – Fins for River Surfers appeared first on Riverbreak.

All WUUX surfboards are based on a Multi-Layer-Core. Each board is delivered with Bamboo-Plugs. Everything else can be customized to your needs. The company takes pride in their interdisciplinary approach in crafting beautiful and functional surfboards, that’s why they build their boards in an unique way. WUUX Surfboards are extreme light and highly resistant against impacts. The rails are made of high density foam and completely covered by several layers of fiberglas. On top of this, WUXX is also proud of a number of special board-features like Bamboo-Plugs or the patented Freestyle-Tail.

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WUUX Surfboards at the Almwave and Eisbach

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