Surfers are a subculture whose core activity involves riding ocean waves. Originating in ancient Polynesia, particularly Hawaii, the practice of surfing developed over centuries, gaining profound cultural and religious significance. After a period of decline influenced by 19th-century missionary disapproval of associated practices like nudity and gambling, surfing was revived in the early 20th century by figures such as Duke Kahanamoku and George Freeth. Their demonstrations helped spread interest in the sport globally, leading to its popularization as a distinct subculture, notably in California and Australia, during the 1950s and 1960s. Surf culture encompasses a unique lifestyle, language, fashion, and has significantly influenced music, literature, film, and art. Its adherents often value a connection to nature, personal freedom, and a relaxed approach to life, while maintaining a dedication to the sport.
History[]
Surfing itself began in Hawaii, going as far back as the 1700s, but began to die down and gain a negative reputation among American missionaries who disapproved of its associations with gambling and sexuality.
The worldwide interest in surfing began when Freeth and Kahanamoku gave demonstrations on surfing in the United States, Canada, and New Zealand.
Gaining popularity in the 1960s and spreading as its own subculture in California, it gained traction through media that romanticized the aesthetic, such as the music of the Beach Boys, and the movies of Elvis Presley, they also became associated with the Hippie movement, as they were stereotyped as being lazy and drug addicted.
Visuals[]
- Beaches
- Surfboards
- Waves
- Tourist shops
- Tropical visuals, such as Hawaiian shirts and Tiki imagery
Fashion[]
Surfer fashion utilizes a carefree feeling along with the need for clothing that is fit for being active, due to the nature of the lifestyle
- Board shirts
- Bikinis
- Graphic tees
- Flip flops
- Sunglasses
Slang[]
The surfer subculture has developed its own dialect in the places where it is most popular(such as California and New Zealand) Due to being synonymous with California , it may cross over with some other slang from the state.
- Dude - Friend of surfer
- YEW - Indication of a large wave being spotted/used when a surfer is finished riding a wave
- Far out - Used to describe a good wave ride experience
- Grommet - Young surfer, also used as a way to refer to young children
- Hang ten - A trick in which one’s toes are curled around the nose of the surfboard
- Kook - Beginner surfer or anyone who unconsciously causes trouble for the gang of surfers
Music[]
- The Beach Boys
- Dazey and the Scouts
- Dick Dale
- Eddy and the Showmen
- The Sandals
- Al Casey
Gallery[]
