People often underestimate his talent, yet he continues to perform at a high level.
lucas Owston has steadily built a reputation within the surfing community, drawing comparisons to established names like Kelly Slater and Shane dorian. He distinguished himself within the Momentum Generation,known for his unwavering control on the rail.
The Rise of a Rail Master
This past summer, Lucas dedicated a week to surfing the right-hand points of Salina Cruz alongside Eithan Osborne and Micah Margieson. Jason “Mini” Blanchard documented the sessions, quickly amassing a substantial collection of footage from the consistent sand points. Despite challenging conditions – relentless mosquitoes, a three-day power outage, and oppressive heat – the trip proved fruitful.
I haven’t consistently followed Lucas’s career, but his foundational skills and rail mastery are immediately apparent in this new footage. Remarkably,the video features no aerial reverses,rather showcasing a series of powerful carves and cutbacks.
Lucas Owston/YouTube
One of the boards Lucas utilized during the trip is a yet-to-be-released model from …Lost Surfboards,which he described as a sick frontside point break model.
he recognizes the value of access to top-tier equipment and the expertise of Matt Biolos, a veteran shaper and team leader.
“Matt helps me out so much. I’m super thankful for him because he’s one of the best surfboard shapers in the world,” Lucas explained. “But also the whole team at …Lost Surfboards, all the guys who work on those boards, they do an incredible job.”
According to the Surf Retailer’s Association, surfboard sales experienced a 7.8% increase in the first quarter of 2024, indicating continued growth in the surfing industry (Surf Retailer’s Association, 2024).
“Matt is so good at understanding what kind of a surfer you are and just making me boards,” he continued. “I’ll tell him I want this, and he’ll go, no, you don’t want that.That’s just who he is, he’s so smart about his craft. He’s done it for so long. I just listen to him, let him do his work, and he makes magic boards.”
Related: Lost Surboards Overhauls Iconic Sub Driver Model … Now With A Swallow Tail
finding Inspiration and Setting Goals
When asked about his future aspirations, Lucas cited Caity Simmers, the 2024 world champion from Oceanside, as a model for a well-rounded career. he aims to compete on the world tour while simultaneously pursuing his creative interests.
“I’m pretty creative and I just love the whole aspect of filmmaking in surfing,” Lucas said.”I think Caity does a really good job of creating films along her travels and telling cool stories. I really like creating high-quality films with really good surfing. Think movie, but intertwined with surfing where you go, wow, that was gnarly. Just something that makes another person want to go surfing.”
Did you know? Caity Simmers’ success highlights a growing trend of professional surfers embracing multimedia storytelling to connect with fans and build their brands.
The Art of Rail Surfing: A Timeless Skill
Rail surfing, the technique of maintaining a consistent connection between the board and the wave face, remains a cornerstone of progressive surfing. While aerial maneuvers have gained prominence, a strong rail game provides the foundation for control, speed, and versatility. It’s a skill that separates good surfers from exceptional ones.
Here’s what works best: Focus on maintaining a low center of gravity and engaging your core muscles to maximize rail hold. Practice smooth transitions between turns and experiment with different rail angles to find what works for you.
The ability to carve and cutback effectively allows surfers to generate speed,navigate critical sections,and link maneuvers seamlessly. It’s a skill that’s especially valuable in a variety of wave conditions, from powerful point breaks to hollow beach breaks.
Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the importance of board design. A well-shaped board with the right volume and rocker can substantially enhance your rail performance.
Lucas Owston embodies this approach, prioritizing control and flow over flashy aerials. His surfing is a testament to the enduring appeal of rail surfing and a reminder that fundamental skills remain essential for success in the water. The focus on rail work is a refreshing change in a sport often dominated by aerials.
Are you working on improving your rail game? What challenges are you facing?
Ultimately, Lucas’s journey reflects a growing trend in surfing: a desire to balance competitive ambition with creative expression. He’s a surfer to watch, not just for his skill, but for his vision.
Here’s a speedy comparison of surfing styles:
| Style | Focus | Key Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| Aerial | Airborne maneuvers | Rotations, flips, grabs |
| Rail | Wave face connection | Carves, cutbacks, turns |
| Hybrid | combination of both | Versatility, adaptability |
This approach to surfing, blending competition and creativity, is becoming increasingly common among the sport’s rising stars.
frequently Asked Questions About Rail Surfing
- What is rail surfing? Rail surfing involves maintaining consistent contact between the surfboard’s rails and the wave face, allowing for controlled turns and maneuvers.
- Why is rail surfing vital? It provides the foundation for speed, control, and versatility in a variety of wave conditions.
- How can I improve my rail surfing? Focus on maintaining a low center of gravity, engaging your core, and practicing smooth transitions.
- What type of surfboard is best for rail surfing? Boards with a well-defined rail shape and appropriate volume are ideal.
- Is rail surfing still relevant in modern surfing? Absolutely. While aerials are popular, a strong rail game remains essential for overall performance.
- Can you learn rail surfing on any type of wave? While all waves can be used for practice, point breaks and beach breaks with consistent faces are ideal for developing rail skills.
- what’s the difference between a hard rail and a soft rail? A hard rail provides more grip and hold, while a soft rail is more forgiving and easier to turn.
The future of rail surfing looks luminous, with surfers like Lucas Owston demonstrating its enduring appeal and relevance in the ever-evolving world of wave riding.
Share your thoughts on Lucas’s surfing and the importance of rail work in the comments below!