Feathering Meaning in Surfing

Feathering occurs when the wind blows the top of a wave before it breaks. This creates a thin spray of water that looks like a white feather. It indicates that the wave is reaching its peak and will soon collapse. Surfers use feathering as a visual cue to prepare for a fast takeoff. This usually happens when a strong offshore wind hits the rising swell face. The water looks beautiful and delicate as the crest starts to turn white. A surfer watches the feathering lips to find the best place to paddle. This phenomenon often signals that the wave is about to become very steep. One rider paddles toward a feathering peak just as the set arrives. Feathering waves provide a clear target for surfers looking for the best waves.