Hi, l was wondering how many people out there surf? I've been trying to research this on my own but I am having trouble actually finding stuff on it. Can someone link me to a survey for it or anything? I am specifically looking for info on how many people surf, per region, age groups, stuff like that, any help would be greatly appreciated.

Surf Industry Manufacturer is Association (SIMA) as it unveiled its latest U.S. retail study from market research firm Leisure Trends. ..

Skate-focused shops accounted for 2.85 billion in sales last year & surf-focused shops sold $2.65 billion. But surf shops posted a two-year increase of 7.7 percent in sales, while skate shop sales saw 18.3 percent growth. None of this is really surprising since there r an estimated 12 million skateboarders in the U.S. (according to the Outdoor Industry Association), compared with perhaps 2.5 million surfers & bodyboarders. But it does mean that SIMA is fortunate in being able roll on skate is wheels when it is spinning industry increases.

.08 % of the U.S. population.

http://sima.com/

One of the most important roles of all trade associations is to offer each of its members—regardless of size or net revenues—an equal voice in their industry. Whether u make & sell 100 surfboards a year or $5 million in surf apparel, ur role as a SIMA member is of equal value. SIMA’s job is to represent the interests & promote the entire surf industry equally, as a whole.

However, the role of SIMA is much more than being a voice. SIMA is also about tangible benefits that affect ur bottom line & will help u grow ur business. That’s why we’re aligned with more than 15 partners to help u save money & to help ur business run more efficiently & effectively. Partners such as FedEx, Siriani & Associates to help save on freight shipping, TradeCard for online transaction management & financial settlement services & many more.

Also, by being a SIMA member u will receive discounts & first notice of events including the always sold-out Waterman’s Weekend & the Surf Summit industry conference. You will also have access to complete industry research & statistics that provide valuable information that can greatly benefit ur brand.

For more information on membership benefits, view SIMA is member services & partners.

l hope this helps ur question, it is all taken from SIMA is website.

1. Make sure u rent a longboard (board should be at least 7 1/2 feet long). A long board is much more stable & is definitely the best board to learn with.

2. Find a break (beach with surfable waves) where the waves r 1-3 feet & long & rolling. Larger waves & waves that r curling r very difficult for beginners because they r typically steep & crash quickly. Check surfline.com, an excellent site to check out surf conditions all over.


3. Another helpful thing to do is find a spot that is more shallow (e.g. a sandbar). When l learned to surf, l found it easier to catch waves when l was standing. Some people may disagree but l thought it was helpful. It is also easier to get back out to where u need to be after catching a wave.

4. When u spot a wave that u want to ride, get on ur board & begin paddling toward shore. You want to start doing this before the wave gets to u in order to get some momentum.


5. Once the wave gets to you, continue paddling until u feel the board begin to 'glide'. Almost like u r on a sled going down a hill in the snow.


6. Once u feel this glide, use ur hands to prop ur body & feet up on the board. You want to try to do this in one swift motion. When u do this, it is helpful for balance to stay crouched as u get ur feet up on the board.


7. Your front foot should be around the middle of the board. Your rear foot should be towards the back of the board.


8. Once u feel balanced, stand up on the board

9. SURF!

John F seems to have the right stuff there

l have to say that, once again, john f has it right.

all l can say for george is 'what!?'
guys, read the question before you answer it. :(

John is answer comes from the group that ''should'' have all the data. It has always been pretty closely guarded information for some reason. l remember seeing something within the last couple of years that there is estimated to be some 8 million or so surfers worldwide. The trouble is, what constitutes a surfer? Some who has surfed once? Someone who surfs all the time? How do u determine that number; by sales of boards & wetsuits?

2.5 million seems to be a good number for the US. Believe it or not most r on the East Coast. Sure the West coasters will argue the point but the fact is that we have WAY more coastline. Just look up the memberships for the various surfing organizations. ESA is by far the largest.

John gave a great answer---but l think kim has a huge point with ''what constitutes being a surfer''...that must be answered first, or else this is a moot point.

**ESA member since '93.

l surf
goood luck!

TOO MANY!