Rip Curl team rider Alys Barton is one of the UK’s best surfers. Having grown up in Wales she now travels the world competing and training, so we thought we’d have a catch up and get her tips for staying warm this winter.
I’m very lucky that I grew up and starting surfing in Wales.The country has some of the most beautiful and rugged coastlines, offering a mix of fun waves and stunning scenery. I loved the sense of community within the Welsh surf scene it’s small, but everyone knows each other, and there’s always an awesome vibe. The water’s definitely colder than places like some places in Europe or Indonesia , but that just makes the sessions more challenging and rewarding.
At what point did you know that surfing would be a career for you?
I think the moment I realised surfing could be a career for me wasn’t really a single moment, but a series of small defining ones. Before I started surfing I played the clarinet! My dad, was an actor and my mum an ex dancer, so not much of a surfing background ! But we were all learning together and they’ve managed to coach and mentor me into the surfer I am today. It wasn’t easy at al,l there have been lots of sacrifices as well as lots of hours in the water and gym, to become the best surfer I can be.
How stoked are you to get a sponsorship with Rip Curl?
It was so surreal. From thinking back to when I first started surfing and entering the surfing world, it’s seems crazy to think how far I’ve come. I’ve looked up to Rip Curl for many years, and always dreamt of being a team rider. I can’t wait to see where this partnership takes me, both in terms of my own growth and the opportunities to connect with the surf community in new way..
This can be tough, but there’s something special about being out in the water when the conditions are wild. As long as you’re warm you can enjoy even the most bleak and cold days. My top tip for that is investing in a high quality wetsuit. My fave for winter is the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 5/4mm Hooded, paired with Flashbomb Boots and Gloves, then you’re guaranteed to stay warm as well as maintaining flexibility.
What are you top tips for choosing a wetsuit?
Choosing the right wetsuit is crucial for comfort and performance in the water. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced surfer, here’s some of my top tips for choosing the perfect wetsuit;
1. Consider the water temperature (this will determine the thickness of the suit).
2. Fit is key. You want to feel snug but still be flexible.
3. Care and maintenance, even the best wetsuits can wear out fast if not cared for properly. So make sure you’re washing out your wetsuit after every surf.
What challenges do you face as a young, female surfer?
There are definitely challengers that come with navigating a sport that has traditionally been male-dominated, but those challenges have also been incredibly motivating and empowering. Sometimes the line ups can be tough but I’ve learnt the best way to get through this is confidence!
It’s all about balance. Combining surfing, fitness and recovery to stay in peak form. Whether I’m training for a competition of push my own progress, I’m always looking to put the hours of work in to do so.
Do you have any regular routines for improving your technique?
Yes, improving technique as a surfer requires a mix of regular practice, focused drills, and mindfulness, both in and out of the water.
Where are the standout places you’ve travelled to in the last year?
I’ve had the chance to travel to some incredible places in the last 12 months. Puerto Rico was a highlight for me this year because of the incredible variety of waves, and amazing culture. I was there competing in the ISA World Surfing Games, which was an incredible event and I felt I made some brilliant performances.
In the next couple of years, I’ve got a mix of personal and professional goals that will help me grow as both a surfer and individual. But top of the list is progressing my surfing and competing on the WSL Challenger Series.
If you could give one piece of advice to young surfers what would it be?
If I could give one piece of advice to young surfers, it would be focus on the process, not just the results. Surfing is a journey, not a destination. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of wanting to surf like her or him. Every session, whether you’re riding your best wave or struggling to get out the back, is a step forward in your development.
Follow Alys’s adventures at @alysbartonsurfer
