According to surfing history, since the 18th century, women were already surfing in Hawaii alongside men without any distinction based on gender or physical condition. They simply waited at the peak for a set and rode the waves like everyone else.

Woman surfing


It’s not entirely clear why, but there were no further records of this practice until the 1950s, when pioneers like the legendary Linda Benson, who at just 11 years old stood on a surfboard for the first time, or the revered Rell Sunn, made history.

At that time, surfing was a male-dominated sport, with men not believing women were capable of riding big waves, having the stamina to reach the peak, or balancing on those heavy wooden boards of the era.

Fortunately, more and more women are eager and able to take up surfing.

The role of women in sport


Here’s the trailer for the documentary The Women and the Waves (Heather Hudson, 2009), showcasing how women gradually entered the world of surfing:



Slowly, women carved their path, gaining recognition and respect as athletes. However, after so much effort, they entered the world of competitions and major sponsors, who seem more focused on surfers’ physiques than the waves they conquer or the tricks they perform.

Women before surfing



Why do surf ads show men surfing and women posing?



Female surfers are far more than just images in swimwear—they often risk their lives in the water, just like men. So, is the surfing world a sexist arena?

There’s nothing wrong with athletes choosing to pose for media outlets of their choice. What’s surprising is that sponsors themselves portray them this way, rather than highlighting their sporting achievements.

Surfing is a world deeply rooted in values and unwritten rules of conduct, such as respect for nature, camaraderie, hard work, and self-improvement. Yet, given the focus seen in internet, press, and TV, it all seems superficial—as if only having a good-looking body matters.

Recall the controversial ad for the 2013 Women’s Surfing Championship in Biarritz, where even the face of surfer Stephanie Gilmore wasn’t shown:



The ad was even parodied, exposing how absurd it would look if the protagonist were a man:



And let’s not forget the prize money in major championships, where male winners receive more than female winners, or the differences in competition conditions...

Appearance sells, but to what extent does this approach truly promote surfing to the masses?

What about you? What’s your take on this?