When a handplane is not necessary. Photo: Stéphane Salerno
It seems that, for better or worse, the recent resurgence in bodysurfing is here to stay. I for one, enjoy it. Bodysurfers are now on the radar a little more in the line up, and getting snaked is a slightly less common occurrence.
What does concern me, though, is the reliance on the handplane. Most bodysurfing images or clips now feature one and it seems to have created a whole new industry in itself. Don’t get me wrong – handplanes are a great wave riding tool. But that is all they are: a tool. Something to be brought out when conditions require it. The increased lift does help in less powerful waves or when thick neoprene can create a lot of drag, but what about when the waves are good? Bodysurfing decent waves requires to cover more ground, and cover it faster, the same as any form of surfing. This is easier if you can choose different body shapes to suit the section. One watch of style masters Mark Cunningham or Mike Stewart is testament to this. They are constantly making changes to generate the smoothest line. If you choose to handplane, you are locked into that one shape, from start to finish, hoping increased lift will steer you in the right direction.
Getting into a larger wave is also a skill in itself, and with a handplane it is harder to utilize a natural swim stroke or to porpoise the wave. This usually is the difference between a silky ride and an ungraceful womp.
I guess what I’m trying to say is not ditch the handplane, because to do so would be to deprive yourself of so much fun. But leave it at home for a couple of sessions. You will be thankful when the waves get good, and you may even improve your style.
