Over the Falls Meaning in Surfing

Over the falls describes being sucked up and over by a wave. This happens when a surfer falls at the very top of the lip. The circular motion of the wave pulls the rider down with the water. This is often the most violent type of wipeout in the ocean. The surfer drops from a height into the base of the wave. It feels like being inside a washing machine full of heavy salt water. A surfer goes over the falls on a large and hollow reef. Protecting the head with the arms is a common safety move here. One rider gets tossed forward by a pitching wave at a beach break. Avoiding the falls requires a very fast and well timed takeoff move.