Look Where You Want to Go

Featured photo: Abe Kislevitz

Whether you’re riding a surfboard, a bicycle, or driving a car, one principle remains the same: your eyes dictate will where you go.

If you want to make measurable improvements to your surfing, start by being intentional about where you set your gaze. The same way your feet follow your eyes on a wave, the things you focus on tend to shape your path—both in the water and beyond.

Here are four key moments where your eyes can make all the difference:

1. Dropping into a Wave

As you take off, don’t stare straight down at your feet or the nose of your board. Instead, lock your eyes on the line you want to take and set up your bottom turn with confidence.

2. Drawing a Higher Line

When you're racing to stay ahead of a section, your natural instinct might be to look down at your board or the water directly in front of you. Instead, keep your eyes down the line and work your way up the face of the wave. A higher line often means the difference between making the section or getting caught behind.

3. Cross-Stepping to the Nose

A well-executed cross-step requires balance and precision. Use the stringer as your visual guide to keep your steps centered and controlled. Where your eyes go, your feet will follow.

4. Completing a Cutback

A proper cutback isn’t just about throwing everything into the initial turn—it’s about coming back to the power source of the wave. Instead of treating it like a finishing move, look back over your shoulder at the oncoming section. Your board and body will naturally follow, making for a smoother, more effective turn.

Next time you paddle out, pay attention to where your eyes are leading you. And for good measure—catch waves earlier. Everything in surfing comes together so much cleaner when you get in just one or two strokes sooner.