Best Surf Video Editors
Compare the top video editing tools for surf content. From automatic AI editors to professional suites.
Editing surf footage is different from editing other content. You're dealing with action that happens fast, challenging lighting conditions, and the need to convert horizontal footage to vertical format for social media.
We've tested the most popular video editors to help you find the right tool for your surf content workflow.
Top Tools for Surf Video Editing
Surf Buddy Shorts
AI-powered automatic editor built specifically for surf videos. Upload footage, get viral-ready shorts.
Pros
- Zero editing required - truly automatic
- AI understands surfing (wave detection)
- Perfect vertical formatting
- Multiple clips from one session
Cons
- Less manual control than traditional editors
- Currently in beta
- No music/effects (add in social apps)
CapCut
Free mobile and desktop editor with powerful features. Great templates but requires manual editing.
Pros
- Free with many features
- Good mobile app
- Lots of templates and effects
- TikTok integration
Cons
- Still requires editing skills
- Time-consuming for each video
- No surf-specific features
GoPro Quik
GoPro's official editor with auto-highlight feature. Works best with GoPro footage.
Pros
- Free for GoPro users
- Auto-highlight feature
- Cloud backup included
- Easy to use
Cons
- Generic action detection (not surf-specific)
- Limited to GoPro ecosystem
- Basic editing features
Adobe Premiere Pro
Industry-standard professional editor. Maximum control but steep learning curve.
Pros
- Complete creative control
- Professional-grade output
- Extensive plugin ecosystem
- Color grading tools
Cons
- Expensive subscription
- Steep learning curve
- Time-intensive workflow
- Overkill for social content
DaVinci Resolve
Powerful free editor with professional color grading. Complex but capable.
Pros
- Free version is very capable
- Best-in-class color grading
- Professional features
- No watermarks
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Heavy system requirements
- Complex interface
- Manual workflow
Why We Recommend Surf Buddy Shorts
Surf Buddy Shorts is purpose-built for surf content. While other editors are general tools you adapt to surfing, we built ours specifically for surfers from day one.
True Automation
No timeline, no editing decisions. Upload footage, get clips. The only editor that actually does the work for you.
Surf-Trained AI
Our AI understands waves and surfing. It finds the moments worth sharing, not just generic "exciting" clips.
Social-Ready Output
Vertical format, perfect duration, ready to post. No reformatting or exporting in weird formats.
Ready to Go Viral?
Transform your surf footage into viral shorts automatically. No editing skills required.
No credit card required
Instant Results
Get viral-ready shorts in minutes
Platform Ready
Optimized for TikTok, Reels & Shorts
AI-Powered
Smart wave detection & editing
Ready to upgrade your Surf Video Editing?
Join surfers already creating viral content with AI-powered editing
Open beta - No credit card required