{"id":666,"date":"2026-10-14T19:46:10","date_gmt":"2026-10-14T19:46:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/?p=666"},"modified":"2026-10-19T12:44:17","modified_gmt":"2026-10-19T12:44:17","slug":"learn-to-read-waves","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/learn-to-read-waves\/","title":{"rendered":"Learn to Read Waves: What Shape, Direction and Movement Tell You"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"et_pb_section_0 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article takeoff-style-section\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_0 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_0 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_code_0 et_pb_code et_pb_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_code_inner\"><style>\n.waves-article{color:#3E2E27;background:#F8F6EF;font-family:inherit;font-size:18px;line-height:1.65}\n.waves-article 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checked';bar.value=n;}items.forEach(function(c){c.addEventListener('change',update);});box.querySelector('.waves-check-reset').addEventListener('click',function(){items.forEach(function(c){c.checked=false;});update();});update();});}if(document.readyState==='loading')document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded',init);else init();})();<\/script><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"FAQPage\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How do I recognise a good beginner wave?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Small, gently breaking waves in a safe practice area often suit beginners. Alongside wave shape, water depth, currents and your ability are crucial.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What does closeout mean in surfing?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A closeout is a wave that breaks almost simultaneously across its full width, leaving little open face to ride sideways along.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is a set in surfing?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A set is a group of consecutive waves. There are often quieter periods between sets. Wave size and spacing can vary.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How do I tell whether a wave breaks left or right?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Watch where the wave first breaks and which way the breaking section moves. Surfing direction is always described from the perspective of a surfer looking towards the beach.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I learn to read waves without surfing?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. You can observe wave shape, breaking direction, sets and wind from the beach. It helps you understand the sea's movements better.\"}}]}<\/script><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_1 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"wellen-artikelkopf\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_1 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_1 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_post_title_0 et_pb_post_title et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-title\"><div class=\"et_pb_title_container\"><h1 class=\"entry-title\">Learn to Read Waves: What Shape, Direction and Movement Tell You<\/h1><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_2 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"einstieg\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_2 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_2 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_image_0 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-photo\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellen-lesen-lernen-surfer-strand.webp\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellen-lesen-lernen-surfer-strand.webp 1536w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellen-lesen-lernen-surfer-strand-1280x853.webp 1280w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellen-lesen-lernen-surfer-strand-980x653.webp 980w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellen-lesen-lernen-surfer-strand-480x320.webp 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 767px) 90vw, 820px\" class=\"wp-image-334\" alt=\"A surfer watches the breaking waves from the beach.\" title=\"A surfer watches the breaking waves from the beach.\" loading=\"eager\" fetchpriority=\"high\" \/><\/span><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_0 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module waves-ai-credit\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>ai generated<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_1 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>You stand on the beach looking out to sea. Some waves break gently, others steeply and quickly. Some peel evenly to the side; others break almost all at once across their width.<\/p>\n<p>At first, this may look random. But when you look more closely, patterns appear.<\/p>\n<p>Learning to read waves means observing their shape, direction and movement. This helps you assess which waves suit your ability, where to position yourself and when it's time for your <a href=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/learn-the-surf-take-off\/\">Take-off<\/a> .<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_2 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module takeoff-quote\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Best of all, you can start before you even enter the water.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_3 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"wellenform\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_3 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_3 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_3 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>1. Wave shape: how does a wave break?<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_4 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>A wave's shape tells you how quickly and powerfully it breaks. You should be able to distinguish three types.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_image_1 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-photo\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-sanft-brechende-welle.webp\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-sanft-brechende-welle.webp 1536w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-sanft-brechende-welle-1280x853.webp 1280w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-sanft-brechende-welle-980x653.webp 980w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-sanft-brechende-welle-480x320.webp 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1536px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-335\" alt=\"A gently breaking wave with whitewater forming gradually.\" title=\"A gently breaking wave with whitewater forming gradually.\" \/><\/span><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_5 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module waves-ai-credit\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>ai generated<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_6 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h3>Gently breaking waves<\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_7 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Foam gradually spills down the front. Small, gently breaking waves can suit beginners. In the whitewater, you can first practise feeling the wave push your board.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_image_2 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-photo\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-steil-brechende-welle.webp\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-steil-brechende-welle.webp 1536w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-steil-brechende-welle-1280x853.webp 1280w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-steil-brechende-welle-980x653.webp 980w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-steil-brechende-welle-480x320.webp 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1536px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-336\" alt=\"A steep wave with its lip pitching forward.\" title=\"A steep wave with its lip pitching forward.\" \/><\/span><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_8 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module waves-ai-credit\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>ai generated<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_9 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h3>Steeply breaking waves<\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_10 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>The upper part of the wave, called the lip, pitches forward. These waves require more experience and can be dangerous, particularly in shallow water.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_image_3 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-photo\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-closeout-welle.webp\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-closeout-welle.webp 1536w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-closeout-welle-1280x853.webp 1280w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-closeout-welle-980x653.webp 980w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellenform-closeout-welle-480x320.webp 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1536px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-337\" alt=\"A closeout wave breaking across its full width at once.\" title=\"A closeout wave breaking across its full width at once.\" \/><\/span><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_11 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module waves-ai-credit\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>ai generated<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_12 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h3>Closeouts<\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_13 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>The wave breaks almost simultaneously across its width, leaving little open face to ride along. Under suitable conditions, the resulting whitewater can still be used for practice.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_14 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module takeoff-quote\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Remember: a small wave isn't automatically easy. How steeply it breaks and the water depth beneath it matter too.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_4 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"wellenrichtung\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_4 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_4 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_15 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>2. Wave direction: left, right or closeout?<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_16 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Some waves start breaking at one point, then peel to the left or right.<\/p>\n<p>Beside the breaking section, an open face remains. You can surf sideways along it.<\/p>\n<p>The main distinctions are:<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_17 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module takeoff-box\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><ul>\n<li>Left: the wave peels left from the surfer's perspective.<\/li>\n<li>Right: the wave peels right from the surfer's perspective.<\/li>\n<li>Closeout: the wave breaks almost simultaneously across its full width.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_18 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Important: direction is always described from the perspective of a surfer looking towards the beach. From the beach, left and right are therefore reversed.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_image_4 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-photo waves-direction\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wave-direction-en.png\" width=\"1490\" height=\"2280\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wave-direction-en.png 1490w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wave-direction-en-1280x1959.png 1280w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wave-direction-en-980x1500.png 980w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wave-direction-en-480x734.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1490px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-815\" alt=\"Illustration of a wave with a breaking section and open face.\" title=\"Illustration of a wave with a breaking section and open face.\" \/><\/span><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_19 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Simplified overhead view from the sea towards the beach: arrows show the surfing direction along the open face. Labels use the surfer's perspective.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_20 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module takeoff-box\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Observation tip: follow a wave from its first break to the end. Does an open face remain beside it? Which way does it peel?<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_5 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"sets\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_5 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_5 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_21 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>3. Recognising sets: when do the next waves arrive?<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_22 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Waves often arrive in groups. These groups are called sets.<\/p>\n<p>Several larger waves may arrive one after another, followed by a quieter period before the next group.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_image_5 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-photo\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellen-sets-mehrere-wellen-kueste.webp\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellen-sets-mehrere-wellen-kueste.webp 1536w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellen-sets-mehrere-wellen-kueste-1280x853.webp 1280w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellen-sets-mehrere-wellen-kueste-980x653.webp 980w, https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wellen-sets-mehrere-wellen-kueste-480x320.webp 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1536px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-339\" alt=\"Several waves in a set roll towards the coast in succession.\" title=\"Several waves in a set roll towards the coast in succession.\" \/><\/span><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_23 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module waves-ai-credit\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>ai generated<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_24 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Watch several sets, rather than just one wave:<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_25 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><ul>\n<li>Roughly how many waves arrive in a row?<\/li>\n<li>How long are the quieter periods?<\/li>\n<li>Where do the larger waves break?<\/li>\n<li>Does the breaking point change?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_26 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>This helps you develop a better feel for the sea's rhythm.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_27 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module takeoff-box\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Be careful, though: calm-looking water doesn't mean the next waves will remain as small.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_6 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"meeresboden-gezeiten\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_6 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_6 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_28 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>4. Why do waves break in different places?<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_29 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>As waves enter shallower water, they slow down, become steeper and may eventually break.<\/p>\n<p>How and where this happens depends especially on the seabed.<\/p>\n<p>At a sandy beach break, sandbanks can make waves break earlier in certain places.<\/p>\n<p>At reefs and rocky coasts, fixed underwater structures influence wave shape.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.freshsurf.de\/was-hat-es-eigentlich-mit-diesen-gezeiten-beim-surfen-auf-sich\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">tides<\/a> also change conditions. A spot may break very differently at low water than at high water.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_30 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Never look only at height when reading waves. Two equally high waves can surf completely differently.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_7 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"wind\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_7 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_7 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_31 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>5. What does the wind tell you?<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_32 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Wind can smooth waves, make them choppier or change their shape.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_33 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><table class=\"takeoff-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"col\">Wind direction<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Typical effect<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\">Offshore \u2013 From land to sea<\/th>\n<td>Can smooth waves and preserve their shape longer. Strong offshore wind can make paddling into waves harder.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\">Onshore \u2013 From sea to land<\/th>\n<td>Often makes waves choppier and less organised.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\">Sideshore \u2013 Parallel to the coast<\/th>\n<td>Can affect waves and current patterns.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_34 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.freshsurf.de\/onshore-und-offshore-wind-die-windrichtungen-beim-surfen\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Offshore<\/a> doesn't automatically mean good or safe surf conditions.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_35 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Wind, swell, tides and seabed work together to determine how waves actually break.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_8 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"wellen-check\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_8 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_8 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_36 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>6. Practise reading waves: your beach check<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_37 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>You don't need complicated measuring equipment. Before your next session, take a few minutes to observe the sea carefully.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_code_1 et_pb_code et_pb_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_code_inner\"><div class=\"waves-check\" data-waves-check><h3 id=\"waves-check-title\">Your wave check<\/h3><p class=\"waves-check-count\" aria-live=\"polite\">0 of 6 checked<\/p><progress max=\"6\" value=\"0\" aria-labelledby=\"waves-check-title\"><\/progress><fieldset aria-labelledby=\"waves-check-title\"><label><input type=\"checkbox\"><span>I have watched several sets.<\/span><\/label><label><input type=\"checkbox\"><span>I can see where the waves break first.<\/span><\/label><label><input type=\"checkbox\"><span>I can tell whether they break gently, steeply or all at once.<\/span><\/label><label><input type=\"checkbox\"><span>I can identify open wave faces and their direction.<\/span><\/label><label><input type=\"checkbox\"><span>I have checked for possible currents and other people.<\/span><\/label><label><input type=\"checkbox\"><span>I have checked which practice area suits my ability.<\/span><\/label><\/fieldset><button type=\"button\" class=\"waves-check-reset\">Reset<\/button><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_38 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>At first, discuss your observations with your <a href=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/about-julian\/\">surf coach<\/a>. This helps you learn which waves suit your ability and which details you may have missed.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_9 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"gefahren\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_9 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_9 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_39 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>Reading waves also means recognising hazards<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_40 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>A wave may look beautiful from the beach and still be unsuitable for you.<\/p>\n<p>Pay particular attention to possible rip currents. They can pull you away from the beach.<\/p>\n<p>Signs may include foam moving out to sea, unusually choppy areas or apparently calm gaps between breaking waves. These <a href=\"https:\/\/www.freshsurf.de\/stroemungen-warum-wir-sie-nicht-unterschaetzen-sollten\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">currents<\/a> aren't always easy to recognise, though.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_41 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Rocks, shallow reefs, powerful shorebreak and other people in the water also form part of your assessment.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_42 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module takeoff-box\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Important: if you don't know a spot or can't confidently assess conditions, don't enter alone. Ask a qualified surf coach or local lifeguard to explain the suitable practice area and possible hazards.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_10 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"faq\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_10 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_10 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_43 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>Frequently asked questions about reading waves<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_accordion_0 et_pb_accordion et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-faq takeoff-module\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_accordion_item_0 et_pb_accordion_item et_pb_toggle et_pb_module et_pb_toggle_open et_block_module\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_toggle_title\">How do I recognise a good beginner wave?<\/h3><div class=\"et_pb_toggle_content\"><p>Small, gently breaking waves in a safe practice area often suit beginners. Alongside wave shape, water depth, currents and your ability are crucial.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_accordion_item_1 et_pb_accordion_item et_pb_toggle et_pb_module et_pb_toggle_close et_block_module\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_toggle_title\">What does closeout mean in surfing?<\/h3><div class=\"et_pb_toggle_content\"><p>A closeout is a wave that breaks almost simultaneously across its full width, leaving little open face to ride sideways along.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_accordion_item_2 et_pb_accordion_item et_pb_toggle et_pb_module et_pb_toggle_close et_block_module\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_toggle_title\">What is a set in surfing?<\/h3><div class=\"et_pb_toggle_content\"><p>A set is a group of consecutive waves. There are often quieter periods between sets. Wave size and spacing can vary.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_accordion_item_3 et_pb_accordion_item et_pb_toggle et_pb_module et_pb_toggle_close et_block_module\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_toggle_title\">How do I tell whether a wave breaks left or right?<\/h3><div class=\"et_pb_toggle_content\"><p>Watch where the wave first breaks and which way the breaking section moves. Surfing direction is always described from the perspective of a surfer looking towards the beach.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_accordion_item_4 et_pb_accordion_item et_pb_toggle et_pb_module et_pb_toggle_close et_block_module\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_toggle_title\">Can I learn to read waves without surfing?<\/h3><div class=\"et_pb_toggle_content\"><p>Yes. You can observe wave shape, breaking direction, sets and wind from the beach. It helps you understand the sea's movements better.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_11 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article\" id=\"abschluss\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_11 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_11 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_44 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>The better you read waves, the more consciously you surf<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_45 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>At first, you may simply see waves rolling towards the beach.<\/p>\n<p>Over time, you recognise where they first break, which form an open face and when the next set arrives.<\/p>\n<p>You learn to choose more deliberately instead of paddling for every wave.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_46 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module takeoff-quote\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>And sometimes, the best decision is to let a wave go.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_47 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Reading waves takes practice. But you can learn at every session, even on days when you simply sit on the beach watching the sea.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_12 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section waves-article tpsc-article-cta\" id=\"naechste-session\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_12 et_pb_row et_block_row takeoff-row\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_12 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_48 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>Read the waves with Julian<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_49 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Want to make better sense of your observations from the beach? Look at the conditions with Julian and discuss which practice area suits your ability. Then begin your next session with a clear focus.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_module et_pb_button_module_wrapper et_pb_button_0_wrapper\"><a class=\"et_pb_button_0 et_pb_button et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module\" href=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/booking\/\">Enquire about a session with Julian<\/a><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_50 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module takeoff-module tpsc-article-back\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/learn-to-surf-surf-journal\/\">Discover more topics on the knowledge page<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learning to read waves starts on the beach. Observe wave shape, breaking direction, sets and wind to assess surf conditions better.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":602,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[36],"tags":[37,53,55,41,54],"class_list":["post-666","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-surf-knowledge","tag-learn-to-surf","tag-reading-waves","tag-surf-conditions","tag-surf-safety","tag-wave-knowledge"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/666","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=666"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/666\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1017,"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/666\/revisions\/1017"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/602"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=666"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=666"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theprivatesurfcompany.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=666"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}