Using specialized equipment or techniques—whether seated, standing, or prone—para surfers compete at all levels and redefine what’s possible in the water.

I had the rare opportunity to visit Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in Lemoore with Sauce Basics and JS Surfboards—on a private jet, no less—alongside some serious surfing talent.

Wave pools are a luxury. Let’s just get that out of the way. Like snow sports, there is a barrier to entry but if you can afford it, wave pools are fun!

Once a novelty, wave pools are now a real option for surfers looking for consistency, accessibility, and variety.