Here’s an improved and well-researched overview of surfing hairstyles—what they are, why they work, and how to get and maintain them:
🌊 What is the classic “surfer hair”?
- Often described as tousled, sun-bleached, and carefree, surfer hair evokes a 1950s–60s California vibe: long, thick strands naturally lightened by sun and saltwater (en.wikipedia.org).
- Modern variations still embrace this laid-back aesthetic but often feature medium length with textured, choppy layers, offering an intentional “windswept” look (saltgrooming.com).
Popular surfer-inspired styles
- Long Loose Curls & Beachy Waves
- Layered cuts, natural curls or waves, possibly enhanced with curl cream or sea-salt spray; ideal for adding volume and definition (saltgrooming.com).
- Curtains Cut
- Middle-parted, manageable fringe framing the face, channeling 90s style vibes (thefashionisto.com).
- Messy Man‑bun or Top‑knot
- Keeps the hair out of your face while surfing, yet retains that effortless beachy aesthetic (saltgrooming.com).
- Fade Undercut + Tousled Top
- Short on sides/back for practicality, with longer textured top styled into messy waves (relentlessgrooming.com).
- Short Curly Cut (Bleached or Natural)
- Short, fluffy curls with some bleaching and defined with mousse or curl cream for a beachy look (relentlessgrooming.com).
⚙️ Achieving the look: cut & styling tips
- Cut: Ask your stylist for long layers or a shaggy cut, preferably with a razor for natural movement (us.davines.com).
- Texture: Use sea‑salt spray on damp hair to simulate the gritty, tousled beach effect (relentlessgrooming.com).
- Volume: Start with a volumizing shampoo/conditioner to remove residue and lift strands (saltgrooming.com).
- Styling: Scrunch hair or let it air-dry; diffuse if needed, then apply minimal products like curl cream, clay, or pomade to hold texture .
🛡️ Care & maintenance for surfers
- Rinse and protect
- Pre-surf: wet hair and apply a protective cream/oil—this helps barrier salt and sun damage (surfmadame.com, surfmadame.com).
- Post-surf: rinse with fresh water; consider leave-in conditioner or deep conditioning weekly to restore moisture (reddit.com).
- Manage tangles
- Many prefer hair down, as tying it can cause breakage and knots (dipalready.com).
- For long hair, some surfers use loose bun or ponytail, or simply “duck-dive” to slick hair back, avoiding tangles (reddit.com).
- Hydration & UV care
- Boost hydration with oils like argan, aloe or baobab; hydrate internally via water/fruit .
- Sun protection is key—consider UV‑protective sprays or leave-in conditioners.
✨ Quick styling summary
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cut: Go for medium-to-long layers with choppy ends |
| 2 | Wash: Use volumizing cleansers |
| 3 | Prep: On damp hair, mist with sea-salt spray |
| 4 | Scrunch: Encourage natural waves or curls |
| 5 | Air-dry or diffuse, finish with light styling product |
| 6 | Protect & condition before/after surfing |
🌐 Cultural note
The “surfer hair” stereotype is evolving. It’s no longer just sun-bleached blondes—diverse surfer cultures worldwide, like in Africa, now showcase every hair type using protective styles like braids (saltgrooming.com, saltgrooming.com, vogue.com).
Bottom line: Surfing hairstyles embody a rich mix of tradition and modern styling—long, layered, textured looks with minimal fuss and real-world practicality for the waves. With smart cutting, texturizing, protective care, and healthy hydration, you can nailing that effortless, beach-ready vibe—without sacrificing your hair’s integrity.
Whether you’re a seasoned wave rider or just someone who admires the laid-back coastal lifestyle, there’s something undeniably cool about the tousled locks of surfers.
Surfer’s hair has become more than just a hairstyle; it’s a statement that exudes an easygoing, carefree vibe.
In this post, I’ll dive into the nuances of surfers hair style, exploring its characteristics and offering some product suggestions to help you achieve that effortlessly tousled look.
Table of Contents
What Is Surfers Hair Style? What Is Surfer Hair?
Surfer’s hair is a reflection of the sun, sea, and wind that accompany a day spent on the waves.
It’s a style that says, “I’ve been where the saltwater meets the shore.”
The texture is key – it’s not about perfectly coiffed strands but rather the natural chaos that results from the elements.
Achieving this look requires the right combination of length, texture, and, of course, the right products.
Length is a crucial factor when it comes to surfers hair style.
While there’s no strict rule, a slightly longer mane tends to capture the essence of this style.
It allows for the natural waves and curls to form, creating that wind-kissed appearance. Of course, if you’re not ready to commit to a lengthy ‘do, a shorter cut can still embrace the surfer’s spirit with the right texture.
Speaking of texture, surfer’s hair is known for its effortlessly tousled and wind-swept look.
Achieving this involves more than just letting your hair air-dry, although that’s a good start.
Consider incorporating a texturizing product into your routine. Look for sea salt sprays or texturizing mists that can enhance the natural movement of your hair. These products add just the right amount of grit and definition, mimicking the effects of a day spent in the ocean breeze.
Now, let’s talk about shampoo and conditioner. Surfer’s hair is not about a perfectly polished finish, but that doesn’t mean neglecting your hair care routine.
Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo to maintain your hair’s natural oils and keep it looking healthy. A lightweight conditioner can help detangle without weighing down your locks. Remember, the goal is to enhance the natural texture, not to eliminate it.
One of the secrets to achieving that surfer’s aesthetic is embracing the idea that not every strand has to be in place. The charm lies in the imperfections and the effortless chaos.
Consider letting your hair air-dry whenever possible to enhance its natural wave pattern. If you’re in a hurry, use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to maintain that tousled appearance.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – the sun and saltwater can be harsh on your hair.
To combat potential damage, consider using a leave-in conditioner with UV protection.
This not only shields your strands from the sun’s rays but also helps to lock in moisture. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in maintaining the health of your surfer’s hair.
For those days when you want to amp up the texture, a clay or paste can be your go-to styling companion.
These products provide a matte finish and a flexible hold, allowing you to shape your hair while maintaining that windswept look. Apply a small amount, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends, and then use your fingers to tousle and shape.
If you’re a purist and want to keep your routine simple, consider a multi-purpose product like a styling cream. It adds a touch of definition without the weight, keeping your hair looking natural and unforced.
Surfing Hairstyles/Surf Hair Styles
Photo Credits: SurferToday, Pinterest, Shutterstock