What to Bring...

If there is one way to describe surfing in Rhode Island - it's unpredictable! Not only are we concerned about the waves, but the wind and the weather as well! Some days it will look like "Lake Atlantic", flat and glassy. Other days, seemingly out of nowhere, a swell will roll in creating beautiful waves, or pounding whitewater at the shore. We can't put an order in for perfect weather and wave conditions, but we always make the best of what we have. Following is a comprehensive list and explanations of what you'll want to bring with you. If you have any questions after reading it, contact Kira or call and leave a message at 401.789.1336

A Little Muscle - You don't have to be a super athlete, or be able to swim miles a day, but some arm and shoulder strength will make it a little easier and improve you chances of catching some waves. If you don't already have an upper-body workout routine, start adding some simple push-ups to your day. They're the best way to get your shoulders and back ready for paddling and popping up on the board. Can't do regular straight body push ups??? Start standing and do them against a wall, or from your knees on the floor.
Food - Surfing is hard work! You'll definitely workup an appetite. Eat a good breakfast before you come. We'll have fruit and granola bars, etc. available as snacks in case you get hungry during the morning.
Fluids - Many, many, many people neglect this important item! Sitting in the sun on the beach and in the water dries you out! A dehydrated surfer gets cold and uncoordinated much faster than a well hydrated one! Don't worry about having to piddle - there are facilities just down the beach and if you just can't wait, the ocean is an option. We will have coolers full of water and juice.
Sunscreen - Slather yourself with at least an SPF 15 Waterproof sunscreen before you even leave your house/hotel in the morning! We'll provide plenty of sunscreen to see you through the remainder of each day (Compliments of CVS pharmacy). Don't forget the top of your ears, your part and your lips! Helpful hint: apply sunscreen BEFORE you get dressed, that way you won't miss little lines around your bathing suit that will burn. Bet you didn't know that it takes sunscreen about 30 minutes on your skin before it is effective? Did you know that sunscreen expires, losing it's effectiveness? Some manufacturers put expiration dates on their tubes; if you can't find one... toss the tube fromlast year and invest in a new one.
What to wear - if you have a wetsuit, (or can borrow one) by all means bring it! The water temperature will probably be around 65 F, so a 3/2 or a shortie would work best. A rash guard and board shorts are also good, especially if you don't get cold easily. If you have none of the above, a very snug fitting t-shirt and spandex shorts will help make you more comfy; both for warmth and not having to rearrange your bathing suit every time you wipe out!
Surfboard - If you have one bring it! If you have more than one, bring that too! If you can borrow a board, please do so! (Our class size is limited by the number of boards we can provide.) If you don't have a board, don't worry, we'll provide one for you!
Clothes (on shore) - The coast of Rhode Island is not the North Shore of Oahu! Mornings can be cool, especially if it is overcast. Once you have been in the water for a while, you might also feel chilled when you get out. In addition to a towel, bring a sweatshirt or a long sleeve T-shirt, a fleece jacket or something for the top of you and sweatpants or a second towel to cover your legs. Once the sun does shine it can be really hot! Wear a swimsuit... make yourself comfy. A wide brimmed hat or baseball cap etc. is a super way to keep the sun off your face and out of your eyes. Speaking of those peepers... sunglasses are invaluable!
Comfort - You'll spend a total of 2 - 2.5 hours each day sitting on the beach as we go over land instruction. Bring a beach chair if it will make you more comfortable and able to concentrate! (You'll see most of the instructors using them :-)
A Positive Attitude! - Above all, bring a smile and an outlook that this will be a super weekend; all about learning in a fun, supportive, non-competitive environment. It isn't about who stands up first. It is about everyone learning at their own pace and developing an understanding of surfing etiquette, safety and basic board handling skills. Our goal is for everyone to leave the weekend having had a great experience; and for those who want to do more surfing, the confidence to go for it!