Today, we’re rewinding to the 1950s and 60s, when surfing wasn’t just about gliding along a wave—it was about flair, footwork, and a little bit of circus. This episode dives into the colorful world of hotdogging, the flashy, highly maneuverable style that turned mellow beach breaks into a stage for radical turns, noserides, spinners, and drop-knee cutbacks. We’ll trace the roots of the term hotdog, meet the surfers who claimed to have invented it (Phil Edwards or Dewey Weber—take your pick), and break down the maneuvers that defined an era. Plus, you’ll hear about the head-dips, fin-first takeoffs, and the sidelip move that helped Gerry Lopez get noticed. Whether you think surfing should be about pure trim or maximum self-expression, you’ll come away with a fresh appreciation for the golden age of style.
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Batu Bolong, Bali for beginner surfers—may be crowded but worth it
This week, we’re heading to the beating heart of Canggu’s surf scene—Batu Bolong. If you’ve ever dreamed of learning to surf in Bali, this is probably the place you pictured: long, rolling waves, warm tropical water, and a lively lineup packed with learners, locals, and traveling wave-chasers. We’ll break down everything you need to know about surfing Batu Bolong, from what makes the waves beginner-friendly to the reality of the crowds (and the occasional runaway longboard). You’ll get the lowdown on the best seasons to visit, water quality tips, and what to wear so you don’t roast under the Balinese sun. Plus, we’ll share our favorite spots for a post-surf smoothie bowl, a sunset Bintang, and a little retail therapy. Whether you’re planning your first surf trip or just want to daydream about warm water and mellow waves, this is your Batu Bolong primer.
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The history of wetsuits—and key features you should care about
In this episode, we trace the surprisingly nerdy, wartime origins of the modern wetsuit. From Hugh Bradner’s experiments with neoprene in the 1950s to Jack O’Neill’s surf shop innovations and the rise of Body Glove, learn how a few cold-water pioneers made it possible to surf year-round—without turning into a popsicle. We’ll also break down what actually keeps you warm in a wetsuit, why seam construction matters, and which zipper style surfers can’t stop arguing about.
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This week in surf news—July 3, 2025
In this episode, we catch you up on this week's wildest headlines in surfing: First up, The Wave in Bristol—the UK’s famous wave pool that abruptly shut its doors last week—has supposedly reopened under new ownership. On the luxury front, pro surfers are dropping brand collabs at every price point. Kelly Slater’s latest with Breitling is the Superocean B31 watch, and Rob Machado has unveiled the $250,000 Rogue Wave surf van. Meanwhile in Sri Lanka, Weligama’s beginner-friendly surf scene has been shaken by the demolition of unauthorized surf school structures. Over in Florida, a surfer survived one of the most Florida things ever: getting headbutted by a leaping spinner shark. And finally, it’s almost time for SurfAid’s Make a Wave fundraiser, where surfers worldwide commit to surfing 30 days straight in September to raise money for clean water, healthcare, and food security in remote surf communities.
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Wave pools: Surf’s artificial revolution
When I learned to snowboard, I did it on an indoor slope. But when I started surfing, wave pools weren’t even a serious option. Fast forward to 2025, and they are everywhere—and hotter than ever. This episode dives into the surprising history of artificial waves, from 1920s “surf baths” in Germany (yes, really) to the high-tech surf machines of today. We’ll explore how wave pools went from splashy amusement park novelties to precise surf training grounds powered by software, giant plungers, and submerged sleds. We’ll also look at why wave pools are so appealing to beginners and pros alike—guaranteed perfect waves, no crowds, and endless repetition—and why they spark fierce debates about whether this is real surfing or just a very expensive simulation. From Kelly Slater’s famous Surf Ranch to The Wave in Bristol, we’ll break down the innovations, the promise, and the controversy of surfing’s artificial frontier.
To pee or not to pee in a wetsuit? Where can I find a beginner surf break? Should I wax my foamie? What on earth is the Olo? We're here to answer your questions.
The Wipeout Weekly is the world's one and only daily surfing podcast for beginners, wannabe surfers and seasoned wipeout enthusiasts. Powered by Girls Who Can't Surf Good, but boys can listen to.
We cover stories about getting started surfing, surf etiquette, reading surf conditions, beginner surf spots, must-know surf facts and lingo, first-hand recommendations, and more.
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