Are you surfing on the Great Lakes? Yes, you read it right. It might seem like an oxymoron for some, but it is entirely possible and quite popular. It is an exciting twist to traditional ocean surfing that has gained momentum over the past few years.
This post gives you an in-depth understanding of Great Lakes surfing, including the best spots, waves, competitions, and the gear needed to brave the cold waters.
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What to know about surfing the Great Lakes
Firstly, it’s essential to know that Great Lakes surfing isn’t a summer-only activity; the most significant waves are typically found during the cooler months. The onset of storms and strong winds from late autumn to early spring churns up the waters, creating ideal surf conditions.
That’s right, grab your thermal wetsuit because the best surf often happens amidst snowflakes! Now, how can freshwater surfing compare to the saltwater variety?
Well, the waves on the Great Lakes might not be as large or powerful as those you would find on ocean coasts, but they provide unique challenges and rewards.
The unpredictability of the weather, water temperatures dipping below freezing, and rapid changes in wave conditions can create hazardous conditions even for experienced surfers. So, always surf with a buddy, keep an eye on the weather forecasts, and always appreciate the power of the lakes.
Great Lakes surfing has a smaller, tight-knit community than its oceanic counterpart. The vibe here is friendly and laid-back, with surfers always ready to give advice or share a few laughs.
This atmosphere and the unique experience of freshwater surfing keep the stoke alive and draw in new enthusiasts each year. Lastly, one of the defining aspects of Great Lakes surfing is its deep sense of environmental stewardship.
Surfers here don’t just ride the waves; they respect, protect, and work to preserve the lakes and their ecosystems. Participating in this surf culture means committing to keeping these treasured bodies of water for future generations.
So, if you’re up for the challenge, ready to embrace the cold, and willing to become a part of this unique community, surfing the Great Lakes might be the adventure you’re looking for!
Best great lakes surfing spots
While there are plenty of sweet spots for catching waves on the Great Lakes, a few stand out for their consistency and surf quality.
The sheersmith’s lakes span over 94,250 square miles and are peppered with promising locations that offer an array of surfing experiences for both novices and experts alike. So, let’s embark on a virtual tour of the top spots of the Great Lakes.
Starting with Lake Superior, Duluth, Minnesota, is often lauded as the surf capital of the Midwest. Park Point Beach offers consistent waves and a vibrant surf community.
In Michigan, the famous surf spot Marquette flaunts cold and crisp waves, with the city’s Presque Isle Park being the most popular spot. Here, the north swells offer an exhilarating surf ride.
Heading to Lake Michigan, Sheboygan, Wisconsin, fondly known as the ‘Malibu of the Midwest,’ is a must-visit. With more than 22 breaks along a five-mile stretch, this spot caters to surfers of all levels. The Dairyland Surf Classic, the world’s largest freshwater surfing competition, was born here.
Further south, in Illinois, the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago offers some exciting urban surfing opportunities. Waves here can get up to six feet, and the cityscape as a backdrop adds an extra charm to the surf scene.
When it comes to Lake Huron, Saginaw Bay in Michigan stands out. The wave action here can vary, but when it’s on, it’s truly epic. The Bay City State Park is the go-to spot in this area.
Next, Lake Erie, despite being the shallowest of the Great Lakes, has some respectable surf spots. Presque Isle State Park in Erie, Pennsylvania, offers plenty of beach and point breaks. Cleveland, Ohio, also holds its own, with Edgewater Park and Huntington Beach known for their potent swells.
Finally, Lake Ontario, while smaller, can still pack a punch. The Scarborough Bluffs in Toronto, Canada, are known to produce quality waves. The breaks here are fast and powerful, perfect for experienced surfers looking for a challenge.
Each of these spots has a unique charm and distinct surf break. They offer scenic beauty and thrilling surf, making Great Lakes surfing an experience worth chasing.
So, whether you’re an expert surfer seeking a new thrill or a newbie eager to ride your first wave, the Great Lakes have something for everyone. Always respect the lake, stay safe, and enjoy the ride!
Best surfing waves on the Great Lakes
Exploring the dynamic and diverse waves of the Great Lakes can be a thrilling journey. With its unique personality, each lake creates various wave conditions that cater to different skill levels and surf styles.
So, let’s delve into some of the best waves the Great Lakes offer. Lake Superior, known as the ‘King of the Great Lakes,’ is renowned for its size and raw power.
Here, winter gales can create swells that reach impressive heights comparable to those in the ocean. The waves at Park Point Beach, Duluth, are consistent, making it a go-to spot for local and visiting surfers.
Lake Michigan, the second largest of the Great Lakes, is a surfing hotspot with frequent and diverse swells. The waves at Sheboygan, Wisconsin, vary from mellow longboard rides to high-energy shortboard waves.
And for a more urban vibe, the waves along Chicago’s shoreline often present a challenging, quick ride against a striking city backdrop. With its clear blue waters, Lake Huron offers a different surf experience.
The waves at Saginaw Bay, Michigan, can vary significantly in size and power, but when they’re on, they are quite the spectacle. These waves, shaped by prevailing winds, can offer long, mellow rides, perfect for a relaxed surfing session.
Lake Erie might be the shallowest of the Great Lakes, but it can stay decisive regarding wave action. The waves at Presque Isle State Park, Erie, Pennsylvania, are known for their consistency and variety, offering beach breaks and point breaks that cater to different surf preferences.
While smaller, Lake Ontario is known to produce some mighty waves. The breaks at Scarborough Bluffs, Toronto, are fast and punchy, perfect for experienced surfers looking for a technical challenge.
They also tend to be closer together and break quicker, adding to the exciting challenge of Great Lakes surfing. While each lake presents its unique wave conditions, one common thread is the feeling of pure exhilaration when you catch that perfect wave.
Whether you’re riding the icy swells of Lake Superior in the heart of winter or enjoying the gentler waves of Lake Huron on a sunny day, the Great Lakes offer a surfing experience like no other. Here’s to the adventure that awaits on these freshwater waves!
Coast surfing contest Great lakes
While surfing the Great Lakes is an adventure, the experience becomes even more thrilling when combined with friendly competition. Yes, we’re talking about the prestigious and much-anticipated surf contests held on the shores of the Great Lakes.
These contests bring together an eclectic mix of seasoned professionals, eager amateurs, and passionate spectators, all gathered to celebrate the unique sport of freshwater surfing. The most famous of these is undoubtedly the Dairyland Surf Classic in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, held along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Fondly referred to as the ‘Malibu of the Midwest,’ Sheboygan provides an idyllic setting for the world’s largest freshwater surf competition. The event began as a small gathering of surf enthusiasts in the 1980s and has now grown into a major sporting event that attracts surfers from across the nation and beyond.
With various categories, including longboard, shortboard, women’s, and juniors, the Dairyland Surf Classic offers a platform for all surfers to showcase their skills and enjoy the camaraderie of the surf community.
Over on Lake Erie, the annual North Coast Surf Competition in Cleveland, Ohio, adds a dash of excitement to the summer months.
With the backdrop of Cleveland’s iconic skyline, surfers ride the lake’s potent swells and battle it for the coveted title. This competition is about catching the best wave, fostering community spirit, and promoting the love for Great Lakes surfing.
Meanwhile, on the chilling waters of Lake Superior, the Lake Superior Surfing Classic brings together the hardy, winter-ready surfers ready to brave the icy waves.
Held in the surf capital of the Midwest, Duluth, Minnesota, this event showcases the most adventurous side of Great Lakes surfing. With surfers riding the frosty swells amidst snowflakes, it’s a spectacle not to be missed.
These contests, steeped in camaraderie and community spirit, are a testament to the thriving surf culture around the Great Lakes. They are a melting pot of incredible talent, passion, and dedication wrapped up in the exhilarating competition package.
So whether you’re a seasoned surfer looking to pit your skills against others or a spectator keen on being part of the action, these competitions promise a memorable experience. Mark your calendars, prepare your boards, and let the waves decide the rest! Surf’s up, Great Lakes style!
Thermal wetsuits for winter surfing on the Great lakes
Are you surfing the Great Lakes in winter? Sounds freezing, right? Yet, with the right gear, winter surfing on the Great Lakes can be an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.
Enter the superhero of cold-water surfing: the thermal wetsuit. So, let’s delve into why thermal wetsuits are crucial and what to look for when choosing one for your frosty surf adventures on the Great Lakes.
Firstly, it’s worth emphasizing that the chilling temperatures of the Great Lakes during winter are not to be underestimated. Water temperatures can dip well below freezing, creating a harsh environment even for the most seasoned surfers.
That’s where thermal wetsuits come into play. These specially designed suits provide the much-needed insulation to keep you warm in the freezing waters.
There are a few key considerations when selecting a thermal wetsuit for Great Lakes winter surfing. The thickness of the suit is paramount; it determines the degree of warmth the wetsuit provides.
Generally, a wetsuit thickness of 5/4mm to 6/5/4mm is recommended for the frigid waters of the Great Lakes. Remember, the first number represents the thickness around your core, and the second represents the thickness of your limbs.
Next up is the fit. A well-fitting wetsuit should hug your body tightly without restricting movement. It should feel like a second skin, ensuring minimal water seepage to keep you warm.
You should also consider the type of wetsuit. Full suits with built-in hoods are usually the go-to for winter surfing on the Great Lakes. Some surfers even opt for drysuits, which are completely waterproof, though these are less common and can be more expensive.
Lastly, the quality and durability of the wetsuit are essential. While it may be tempting to skimp on cost, remember that a good quality wetsuit is an investment that will last several seasons.
Look for wetsuits with solid seams, quality neoprene, and reliable zippers. In conclusion, while the frosty waves of the Great Lakes might seem intimidating, with the proper thermal wetsuit and gear, you can safely and comfortably ride those icy swells.
Embrace the challenge, gear up, and prepare for an unforgettable winter surfing experience on the Great Lakes! Just remember, safety first. Always surf with a buddy, keep an eye on weather conditions, and respect the power of the lakes.
