A Girl in the Water: Current Day Surf Culture

The culture of surfing means a lot of things. It means waking up early to beat the wind, having sand everywhere, and stereotypically, the word “stoked.” Amongst the loving culture, there are still dwindling aspects of sexism, stemming from how historically surfing has been male-dominated. Even now, when times are “better,” many women struggle to be welcomed and respected in the water. From a professional competitive and recreational lens, there are simply fewer; accounting for around 25% of all surfers.

Infographic made in Canva. Info Credit :WSL

In fact, the World Surf League only ranks the top 18 women compared to 35 men, a nearly 2:1 split. The lack of media recognition for strong female surfers further progresses the idea it is a male-dominated sport. These ideas might not lead to discrimination in concrete ways, but more so in the culture of surfing. Not being taken seriously, getting fewer opportunities, or being snaked for a perfect wave are some of the ways long-time surfer Amara Witenstein has had to deal with.

Strong, capable, and passionate women like Amara pave the path, or shape the wave, for future generations. As time goes on we are seeing more women in the water, and the culture of surfing expanding beyond what it once was. “Surf brands” like Roxy and BillaBong have given females a stronger media presence, as well as individual creators.

There are many badass women who shred; that isn’t what we are waiting for. We’re waiting for a time when women don’t have to “earn” their place in the water, and instead, are actually encouraged to be there.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pp4rzxom5mU

Amara's Waves (a short documentary feature)