From Pavement to Waves: Get Ready for a Summer of Riding!

The days are getting longer, the sun’s making more of an effort, and while a UK summer isn’t exactly tropical, it’s definitely warm enough to swap the skatepark for the shoreline. If you live for board sports, why stop at concrete? The water is calling, and it’s time to take that flow and style from the streets to the sea.

Skateboarding and surfing have always gone hand in hand. Ever heard of sidewalk surfing? That’s what early skaters called it in the ‘50s, back when skating was just a way for surfers to ride when the waves weren’t working. Fast forward to today, and the link between skateboarding, surfing, and other water sports is stronger than ever. So, if you love the feeling of carving up a bowl, cruising on a longboard, or hitting ramps, you’re going to love these water sports that bring that same rush of adrenaline.

Best Water Sports for Skaters to Try This Summer

Surfing

If skating is your thing, surfing is the most natural transition into water sports. Just like skating, surfing is about timing, flow, and style, except instead of rails and ramps, you’re riding the power of the ocean. The core principles are incredibly similar: both are all about balance and movement. In skating, you're constantly adjusting your body to maintain control while carving through streets, bowls, and ramps. Surfing is no different, except now, instead of smooth concrete, you’re adjusting to the unpredictable nature of the waves.

Some of the best surf spots in the UK to check out this summer include Newquay in Cornwall, known for its consistent waves; Croyde Bay in Devon, offering a great mix of surf for all levels; Llangennith in Wales, a stunning beach with excellent conditions for both beginners and pros; and Tynemouth in the North East, where you’ll find great surf and a laid-back vibe.

Bodyboarding

Bodyboarding offers a whole new way to experience the ocean, and it’s one of the easiest and most exciting water sports to get into. Instead of standing on a board, you lie down on a smaller, more agile board, using your body to navigate the waves. It’s all about speed, control, and precision as you ride the waves, whether you're catching smaller, mellow swells or charging more powerful breaks. You use swim fins to help propel yourself into position, and once you're in, it’s all about reading the wave and finding the perfect moment to glide or launch off the lip. It’s incredibly fun, with the rush of riding a wave up close, allowing you to feel the full power of the ocean as you zip across the surface.

Some of the best places to try bodyboarding in the UK this summer include Fistral Beach in Cornwall, with its consistent waves and vibrant surf scene; Perranporth in Cornwall, known for its expansive beaches and reliable surf; Saltburn in the North East, offering fantastic waves for all skill levels; and Rhossili Bay in Wales, a stunning, quiet spot perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy epic conditions.

Stand-up paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a fantastic water sport that combines balance, strength, and serenity all in one. Unlike other board sports, you stand tall on a larger board, using a paddle to propel yourself through the water. It’s a sport that allows you to enjoy the calmness of lakes, rivers, or coastal waters while getting a solid full-body workout. SUP is about finding your rhythm as you glide across the water, using subtle movements to steer and adjust your speed. It’s perfect for those who love the outdoors and want to combine fitness with relaxation, and with a bit of practice, you can even catch small waves, making it an adaptable sport for every mood and skill level.

Some of the best places to try stand-up paddleboarding in the UK include Lake District, where you can paddle through stunning mountain backdrops; Snowdonia in Wales, offering calm lakes surrounded by dramatic landscapes; Norfolk Broads, perfect for a peaceful paddle through scenic wetlands; and Cotswolds Water Park, with miles of peaceful waters for a more relaxed experience.

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing

Windsurfing and kitesurfing are two of the most thrilling wind-powered water sports. Windsurfing involves riding a board while holding onto a sail, using the wind to glide and carve across the water. It’s all about balance and control. Kitesurfing, on the other hand, uses a kite to pull you along on a small board, offering an adrenaline-packed ride with the chance for jumps and tricks. Both sports are exciting ways to experience the power of the wind on the water.

Some great spots for windsurfing and kitesurfing in the UK include Hayling Island in Hampshire, Weymouth Bay in Dorset, Rhosneigr in Anglesey, and Brancaster Bay in Norfolk.

Why Wetsuits & Changing Robes Make a Difference

A good wetsuit is essential when it comes to staying comfortable in colder water. It’s not just about warmth, it also helps protect your skin from abrasions, stings, and even sunburns. The magic of a wetsuit lies in its ability to trap your body heat within the neoprene fabric, keeping you warm even in cooler temperatures. This allows you to stay out in the water longer without freezing up, so you can enjoy those waves to the fullest. Additionally, wetsuits provide a nice boost in buoyancy, making paddling that much easier and helping you float better. Whether you're out for a quick session or braving a longer surf day, the right wetsuit can make a world of difference.

We’ve all been there, trying to change out of a wetsuit in a cold car park, shivering and struggling against the wind. It’s not exactly the most pleasant experience, but that's where changing robes come in. These robes are a total game-changer when it comes to comfort and convenience. With their oversized design, they allow you to change in public with total privacy, whether you're at the beach, in a car park, or anywhere in between. Plus, they help keep you warm and dry while you’re pulling off that wetsuit, which is a huge relief on a chilly day.

As the summer rolls in, there’s no better time to switch up your routine and take your board skills to the water. Whether you’re carving waves on a surfboard, cruising on a SUP, or launching off a wakeboard ramp, the possibilities are endless. With the right gear, you’ll be ready to make the most of every session, no matter the weather. So, get out there, ride the waves, and bring that same stoke you have on land to the water this summer!