Like I've mentioned before, this is the first winter I have spent in New Hampshire and the first REAL winter of my life thus far. There were a couple of concerns.
Firstly, I knew I was going to freeze my balls off either way I looked at it. I couldn't prepare for that, I just had to except it for what it was.
Secondly, I had to learn how to snowboard in a hurry to maintain my place as the Alfa male. Two other individuals wouldn't agree but they will just have to except that for what it is.
Finally, In order to satisfy my addiction and get my fix, I would have to man-the-fuck-up and suit up!
Tyrese ready to rock 'n roll
Yip, not kooky at all!
So I borrowed Tyler's 5/4mm (well ventilated) wetsuit, got myself a pair 5mm boots and gloves and was ready to take on the freeze.
I had often read articles in mags and seen clips from surf videos of these crazy sons of bitches who surfed while there was still snow on the ground, "idiots". Easy to say when you sitting on a warm and sunny beach in your home town of Durbs. Whats not so easy....duck diving the third wave knowing there three more behind it and not being able to breathe due to the shock and brain freeze of the first.
Pics courtesy of Ned Bulmer
Rich
Ryman
Ty.
With that being said, every session had this winter was well worth the effort and cold. The problem with New England is not its ability to produce great waves, but the time lapse between decent swells. But when a little ground swell is slowly swept in then dusted by an offshore breeze, the results are worth the lack in breathe.......breathe taking..?? Now that makes sense.
The Seacoast
Rich
Duck-dive dodging
Unfortunately I don't have any pics of the really good days but those you can peep on MSW or whattherschnell.com.
I suppose the facts that you never expect perfection and always just pray for something surfable, contributes to the excitement when finding an empty, 4 foot beach break.....or point break, or wedge, whichever you leaning towards. The Joel index might play a part in your final decision too.
Joel
Rich
Ty
Rich
Yip, Winter surfing is sweet! Don't know why anyone would leave during winter. Boardies are over rated.
