Can you become a world champion surfer without being able to see the wave you’re riding?

Many surfers struggle to progress, constantly seeking better technique, gear, or coaching—while neglecting the most powerful tool they already have: feel. Matt Formston, a blind surfer and 2x world champion, shares how his lack of vision forced him to master presence, wave reading, and intuition on a level most surfers never reach.

• Discover why “listening” to the wave can be more powerful than watching it

• Learn how to tap into feel, proprioception, and flow—even if you’re fully sighted

• Hear how Matt turns perceived limitations into competitive advantages at the highest level

Press play now to transform how you approach surfing—from your feet to your mindset—with Matt’s radically insightful perspective.

Key Points

• Matt Formston, a visually impaired world champion surfer, explains his level of blindness and how he navigates while surfing

• Matt describes how he uses sound and wave patterns to paddle out and catch waves without vision

• Matt discusses how his disability forces him to be more present and focused on feeling the current wave section rather than looking ahead

• Matt explains how coaching has transformed his surfing through verbal feedback and in-water guidance despite not being able to see video footage

• Matt shares insights from his cycling career about staying relaxed under pressure and applying that mindset to competitive surfing

• Matt discusses his equipment preferences, particularly favoring shorter boards for better wave feel and connection 

http://mattformston.com

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.