Judging Criteria – SUP

Judges want to see you take charge of the wave—using your paddle, positioning, and timing to perform powerful, progressive manoeuvres in the most critical sections. The surfers who stand out are the ones combining innovation with control, while linking major turns seamlessly from start to finish.

Here’s what judges are watching for:

Radical controlled manoeuvres – Powerful, committed turns performed with precision and control
Critical section surfing – Taking on the steepest, most powerful part of the wave
Speed, power & flow – Generating and maintaining momentum while linking manoeuvres smoothly
Innovation & progression – Pushing boundaries with modern, progressive SUP surfing
Variety & combination – Mixing major manoeuvres together in a fluid, connected way
Use of the paddle – Enhancing leverage, drive, and creativity to execute more radical moves
Commitment & difficulty – Taking risks and performing at a high level in demanding sections
Control – Clean execution from start to finish, even in critical situations