It's essential to know how to approach people (even friends) in a lineup
Although the word "lineup" implies physical positioning, in surfing, a lineup also refers to the grouping of people waiting for waves at any given surf break. Each lineup is distinct, varying by the personalities present, the mood, the season, and even time of day.
The dynamics of a surfing lineup is very complex, and many times a microcosm of our greater society. In the coming months I'll explore some of the subtle nuances that may help you cope and flourish with your fellow waveriders. At the very least, it'll hopefully help you to *not* "make-A" in the water.
Some people may call me out on my musings. So be it. This is only my take, given my life experiences in and out of the water. I just hope people can relate, and take something positive away from my ramblings.
The first topic I'd like to address is the lineup greeting. Just like in other social circles, a surfing lineup has complex communication rituals, starting with initial contact.
I've noticed a plethora of different ways people acknowledge each other in the lineup. Who you talk to and how you handle yourself definitely can affect your perceived status in the water. Here are some examples:
The most distant acknowledgement is the upward nod with the ever-so-subtle batting of the eyebrows. If someone doesn't want to overtly be associated with you, he (or she--gender nonspecific) may minimize acknowledgement by just throwing the nod/eyebrow combo. Many times, this may mean, "I might vaguely know you, but I'm not cutting you any slack out here." Either that, or "I don't know who you are." In any case, don't expect any charity in the water from him after this greeting.
Next is the under the breath "howzit." This one is done when you are acquaintances with the guy, but he doesn't want to telegraph the relationship to the world (either that or he forgot your name). Your friend may slide you some waves and take care of you to a point, but he will probably defer to the dominant surfers. In this situation, you should not try and use your friendship with him to establish yourself in the pecking order.
As for the conversation-level greeting, this one is most typical and announces to the rest of the lineup that you guys are peers. If your friend is a good surfer, you may get the benefit of the doubt and be perceived likewise, maybe even given some berth (until, that is, you catch a wave and show your true colors). Although it may be subtle, it also says that you’d probably back each other up if there was any sort conflict in the lineup. This one is especially important in unfamiliar spots or around a lot of strangers, but should not be overdone in a reserved lineup.
Finally, we have the loud, boisterous greeting followed by a "bro/brah" handshake (whatever it may be at the current time). This is a way for two guys to tell rest of the lineup, "We are the bulls out here; we belong, so don't mess with us." This one happens often at higher profile spots where aggression is essential to catching waves.
Of course, it can work both ways. During a trip to San Diego, I got a chance to surf the fabled Windansea with Bill Andrews, a good friend and Windansea "OG". So I'm longboarding out there, trying to keep a low profile in a very crowded, austere lineup. Out comes good old Bill, who loudly proclaims to the entire lineup, "What's up with this? The Hawaii guy caught four lefts and no one dropped in on him? Something's wrong!".
I just wanted to bury my head in the sand in embarrassment. But it was a good way to break the ice with the lineup, and I got to meet some of the crew afterwards.
Did I get dropped in on after that? Yes I did! But that's life in the lineup.
The author (left) ignoring greetings by Bill (right) at a secret San Diego lineup
Stay stoked!
Neal Miyake
