Surfing and skateboarding have always shared a deep connection. One was born from the other — skating first took off as a way to surf when the waves were flat. But in recent years, skating has become more than just a backup plan. It's now one of the most effective cross-training tools for surfers who want to improve style, flow, and aerial skills.

Why Skaters Often Make Better Surfers

The core of both sports is balance, timing, and creativity. But there’s something unique that skating offers surfers: repetition. On land, you can try the same trick over and over, dial in the motion, and build muscle memory — something you can’t always do in unpredictable surf conditions.

Even just cruising through a skatepark helps a surfer understand how to link maneuvers, carry speed, and read terrain — just like reading a wave.

Flow Comes From Speed

Whether it’s a wave or a bowl, the goal is the same: flow. In skateboarding, especially in parks, the aim is to keep momentum — linking lines without stopping, transitioning from wall to wall without hesitation. Surfers can learn a lot from this approach. A well-drawn line on a wave often mirrors a flowing line through a bowl.

Plus, going fast just looks better — in both sports.

How Skating Helps With Aerials

Many surfers struggle with airs, especially rotations and landings. Skateboarding provides a low-pressure environment to practice those exact movements. Launching out of quarterpipes or off ramps builds hang-time awareness, grab control, and stomping technique — all of which carry over into the water.

If you’re serious about improving your air game, hitting the skatepark might help more than another gym session.

Board Time Is Board Time

Every moment spent on a board helps build familiarity. Skating strengthens legs, improves balance, sharpens reflexes, and develops coordination. It keeps you “surf-fit” in a way that’s fun, accessible, and affordable — no gym membership required.

For surfers who don’t love structured workouts, this kind of movement-focused cross-training is the perfect alternative.

Thinking of Starting Skateboarding as a Surfer?

Here are a few tips if you’re just getting into it:

• Wear pads – Don't let pride keep you from protecting your knees, elbows, and head.
  
  

• Invest in good gear – A quality board and proper shoes make a big difference.
  
  

• Start in a park, not the street – Smooth transitions and forgiving terrain will help build confidence.
  
  

• Focus on flow first – Don’t rush the tricks. Learn to pump, turn, and carry speed comfortably.

Skateboarding isn’t just a fun alternative for flat days — it’s a powerful training ground for any surfer looking to sharpen their skills. From building balance and speed control to dialing in aerial awareness, the benefits of skateboarding go far beyond the pavement.