TURTLE ROLL

USE IN WAVES 2FT+

The Turtle Roll is a good method for navigating bigger whitewaters. Yes, it does have its drawbacks but it's still a valuable technique when used in the right circumstances.

HOW IT WORKS

The Turtle Roll is a method of navigating through waves by tipping the board upside down, and holding onto the rails under the water whilst letting the wave roll over the board.

Here's how it's done:

As the wave approaches grab onto the rails on either side of your board slightly above your shoulders and flip upside down - you and the board.
With your hands on the rails, lock your forearms to the deck of the board, tilt your head to the side and let the wave pass over you.
Hold on tight, as you do not want to lose grip of the board.
To perform this effectively you must be 100% perpendicular to the wave. If you’re at an angle, your board will likely get ripped out of your hands.
Once the wave passes, roll back onto your board, move back into your correct position and continue to paddle.

PRO TIP: Timing is key. Rolling roughly about 1 meter away (or 3 feet) from the wave.

COMMON MISTAKES

If your arms are straight this leaves no room to absorb the shock when the whitewater washes over you, making it easier to lose your surfboard.
Flipping too early and you will be left running out of breath wondering when the wave is coming. Currents will move you and it will be almost impossible to stay perpendicular to the whitewater.
Flipping too late and you'll get a face full of whitewater. From here you will struggle to regain control of your board.

PRO'S

Effective in larger surf.

CON'S

Strenuous: getting on and off your board each time is tiring.
Slow: it takes time after each wave to reposition yourself on the board.

WRAPPING IT UP

The Turtle-Roll is an effective technique for getting under bigger whitewater waves, however, it does consume a lot of energy in the process - so use it scarcly, and only when absolutely necessary.

TURTLE ROLL

YOU MUST BE LOGGED IN TO ACCESS THIS COURSE

BEGINNER

THE START OF SOMETHING NEW...

GOTTA HAVE POP!

SPEED

TURNING

THE SUBTLE ART OF NEGOTIATING WAVES

PADDLING

BOARD DISMOUNT

BOARD MANAGEMENT

CATCHING WHITEWATER WAVES

NEXT STEPS...