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The earliest Western written record of surfing in Hawaii comes from Captain James Cook’s journals, published in 1779. Although, he does mention in his account that Polynesians had practiced surfing long wooden boards for generations, so the history of surfing probably goes back much further. Surfing is an ingrained part of native Hawaiian culture, and even a rite that historical Hawaiian chiefs needed to demonstrate their expertise at. Surfing has spread all over the world over the centuries, and become a global culture. And surfboard types, styles, and prowess are the universal language all surfers have.
You can find surfers in any coastal town in the world. Whether you are in South Africa, Australia, the Unites States, or Thailand, surfing is not only a sport, but often a way of life for many. Some take their surfboards for pleasure or as a fun pastime once in a while, while others find a deeper, more spiritual experience with surfing. Surfing culture has spread through worldwide surfing contests, and with Professional Surfers finding sponsorship with major athletic or surfing brand labels. With the globalization of surfing culture through the fashion industry, labels such as Hollister, O’Neill, Hurley, and Rusty have become well known.
Maybe you want to become part of this global culture. Surfing is a great human pastime, and will provide you with the exercise and fun of a water sport, combined with the almost spiritual experience of being one with the ocean. If you’ve never tried surfing before, the best type of surfboard for you is probably a longboard. Longboarding is a style unto itself, and you may choose to stick with a longboard long after you have mastered the technique. Shortboarding is also great fun, but usually requires much more surfing skill. Remember, you should start on a longboard, but you can always work your way up to shortboards, because they are fast and fun, but harder to maneuver. Whether you decide to try your luck with longboarding or shortboarding, you’ll find that surfing can be an addictive sport, and may be one you do for the rest of your life!
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