Surf careers – escaping the 9-5

Sitting there day after day, hammering your PC, working for the man and grinding through hour after hour, it’s hard not to question your choices. There’s obviously the need to earn a crust – after all things do cost. But if you’re looking to retire from the rat race, do something more meaningful, worthwhile and score increased brine time in the process, then here are a few suggestions for careers that’ll give you a few more waves – maybe…

Turn surfing pro

It’s an obvious one but mainly unattainable for those already on life’s treadmill. If you have water skills and the desire to win then this could be for you, however. But becoming a pro surfer isn’t an easy path…Still, he who dares ay?

Surf industry type

More realistically is getting a job within the surf industry – there are plenty of options. It may be you end up working for a brand or perhaps you’ll find surf retail like a good many do. We’ll not lie: hours can still be long and rewards not always reflective of the dedication required. That said you’ll be working around something you love and should score a few more waves than those clocking in and out.

Surf instructor

Another classic, the humble surf instructor role is guaranteed to get you closer to waves. The only downside is having to teach punters when it’s cranking (and the day isn’t always great). That said there are elements that make up for missing the offshore – being the centre of adoration is just one example. Enough to massage any ego. And don’t forget you’ll always get wet after the working day is done.

Oceanographer

Becoming an oceanographer is a great way to put yourself in direct contact with Mother Ocean. Be under no illusion, it takes a hell of a lot of commitment and dedication to become qualified. And then you actually have to find yourself a job which will command long hours. But the essence of saltwater will be forever with you…

Deep sea diver

Diving down to silly depths is one way to achieve regular submersion – literally. Add to the mix extended bouts of time out, due to increased levels of nitrogen in your system, and the ever present risk of nitrogen narcosis while under, and you’ll get the idea it’s no easy task. It is, however, potentially lucrative (as there aren’t many brave enough to face the risks) and after going through lengthy decompression periods you’ll have lots of time for surfing shenanigans.

Magazine editor

If you like the idea of chatting with surfing personalities, dealing with the surfing industry, creating articles and stories about the sport you love then sitting in a magazine editor’s chair  could be for you. Deadlines can, and often do, get in the way of scoring waves and pleasing all sides can be quite tricky. On a positive note you’ll potentially have Slater on speed dial and have access to a range of kit usually reserved for WSL tour riders.

Start a wetsuit business

We started NCW a few years ago with the idea of creating a home grown neoprene brand capable of delivering quality kit comparable to the bigger boys. It’s been a tough slog at times but we’re still here and loving every minute of it! Closing up early for offshore sessions isn’t always feasible when orders are needing to be processed but we wouldn’t have it any other way. Rather this than a boring 9-5.

Let us know if you’ve escape the Rat Race and turned surfing into your profession. We’re always interested to talk story.