Best YouTube Channels to Learn Surfing in 2025
Discover the top surf tutorial YouTube channels to accelerate your learning. Plus, how to apply what you learn with AI-powered feedback on your own surfing.
YouTube has become an incredible resource for surfers at every level. From pop-up tutorials for beginners to advanced maneuver breakdowns for competitive surfers, there's free content to help everyone progress.
But here's the challenge: watching tutorials only gets you halfway there. The real learning happens when you apply what you've watched and get feedback on your execution.
How to Get the Most from Surf Tutorials
Here's a proven approach to accelerate your learning:
- Watch with intention - Focus on one technique at a time
- Take notes - Write down the key points to remember in the water
- Practice in the water - Apply the technique in your next session
- Review your footage - Film yourself and compare to what you learned
- Get feedback - Use AI or a coach to identify what you're missing
The channels below are our top picks for quality surf education. Each has a unique teaching style and focus area.
Top Tools for surf learning
Barefoot Surf
One of the most comprehensive surf tutorial channels. Rowan covers everything from beginner fundamentals to advanced maneuvers with clear explanations and slow-motion breakdowns.
Pros
- Extremely detailed technique breakdowns
- Covers all skill levels
- Slow-motion analysis of pro surfers
- Well-structured playlists by topic
- Regular new content
Cons
- Videos can be quite long
- Australian-focused conditions
- No personalized feedback
Kale Brock Surf
Kale offers a unique perspective combining surf technique with mindset and lifestyle. Great for surfers interested in the mental aspects of progression.
Pros
- Unique mindset-focused approach
- Beautiful cinematography
- Authentic surf lifestyle content
- Inspiring progression stories
Cons
- Less structured tutorials
- More lifestyle than pure technique
- Longer format videos
How to Rip
Quick, digestible tutorials focused on practical tips you can apply immediately. Great for busy surfers who want efficient learning.
Pros
- Short, focused videos
- Clear, actionable tips
- Good for quick reference
- Covers common mistakes
Cons
- Less depth than longer tutorials
- Smaller video library
- Less frequent uploads
Surf Simply
Technical breakdowns from a premium surf coaching school. Their free content offers glimpses into their professional coaching methodology.
Pros
- Professional coaching quality
- Scientific approach to technique
- Clear visual explanations
- Focus on fundamentals
Cons
- Limited free content
- Promotes their paid programs
- Less frequent uploads
OMBE Surf
YouTube previews from a comprehensive online surf school. Great introductions to their structured learning methodology.
Pros
- Structured curriculum approach
- Professional production quality
- Covers technique and theory
- Good for beginners
Cons
- Many videos are teasers for paid content
- Can feel promotional
- Full content requires subscription
WSL (World Surf League)
Watch the pros compete and study their technique. Great for understanding what high-level surfing looks like.
Pros
- Watch the best surfers in the world
- Slow-motion replays
- Commentary on technique
- Inspiration and motivation
Cons
- Not instructional content
- Need to self-analyze what you see
- More entertainment than education
Rob Case
Longboard-focused tutorials from a passionate instructor. Perfect if you ride logs or want to learn traditional longboarding.
Pros
- Specialized longboard content
- Cross-stepping and noseriding
- Authentic, personal teaching style
- Unique niche content
Cons
- Longboard-specific only
- Smaller video library
- Less polished production
Why We Recommend Surf Buddy Coach
YouTube tutorials show you what to do - Surf Buddy Coach shows you what you're actually doing. Upload your footage after practicing what you learned, and our AI will identify what you're nailing and what needs work.
Apply What You Learn
Watch a tutorial, practice in the water, then upload your footage to see how you're doing.
Compare to Pros
See side-by-side how your technique stacks up against what the tutorials teach.
Focus Your Practice
Get specific feedback on which tutorials you should watch next based on your analysis.
Ready to Improve
Your Surfing?
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Instant Feedback
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Personalized Tips
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Track Progress
See your improvement over time
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Watch the tutorials, then upload your footage to see how you're applying the techniques
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