Are you ready to face the thrill of big wave surfing? Discover how to stay safe, make smart decisions, and level up your skills with insights from surfing legend Tom Carroll.

Big wave surfing pushes the limits of skill, endurance, and mental resilience. In this episode, Tom Carroll shares his wealth of experience, offering actionable tips for beginners and seasoned surfers alike. From selecting the right equipment to navigating wipeouts, you'll learn how to approach big waves with confidence while minimizing risks.

• Discover the must-have gear for big wave surfing, including flotation vests and board setups for maximum control and efficiency.

• Learn the mental and physical training techniques to stay calm and focused, even during the heaviest hold-downs.

• Gain insight into wave dynamics, body positioning, and safety protocols to protect yourself and others in the lineup.

Tune in now to hear Tom Carroll’s expert advice and elevate your surfing game with practical strategies for tackling big waves safely and effectively.

Key Points

• The importance of protecting ears from exostosis (bony growth) and infection when surfing, especially in cold winds, by using earplugs or other protective gear.

• The benefits of using Surf Ears, a product that allows hearing while protecting ears, and its effectiveness during big wave surfing.

• Risks involved in big wave surfing, such as drowning, being held underwater, shoulder injuries, and impacts from the board or other surfers.

• Strategies for handling wipeouts and being held underwater, such as staying calm, conserving oxygen, and looking for light to surface.

• The role of training, including breath-holding exercises, swimming, and body awareness, in preparing for big wave surfing.

• The importance of using appropriate equipment like flotation vests, and the development of new safety gear by companies like Quiksilver and Patagonia.

• Techniques for catching and riding big waves, such as feeling the wave, being aerodynamic, and using the right board setup (quad fins vs. thruster).

• The contrast between the experiences of small wave surfing and big wave surfing, and how each can improve the other.

• The value of surfing with a buddy or a group for safety and support in big wave conditions.

https://surfmastery.com/podcast/010tomcarrollbigwave

For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we’ll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we’re here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.