Posted by Sinead Eksteen | 03.20.2025 | Learn To Surf, Surfing Lessons, WB Surf Camp News, Womens Surf Camp

Dancing on Water: Mastering the Cross-Step

There’s something undeniably captivating about watching a surfer smoothly cross-step their way along a longboard, gliding over the wave with balance, rhythm, and style. Whether you’re dreaming of hanging ten or simply want to up your longboarding game, learning to cross-step is a core skill that adds both functionality and flair to your surfing.

Here’s how to start cross-stepping like a pro and move with confidence on your board.

What is Cross-Stepping?

Cross-stepping is the art of walking up and down the deck of your longboard by crossing one foot over the other, rather than shuffling. It’s essential for reaching the nose of your board, adjusting your trim, or even repositioning yourself in response to a wave’s energy.

It’s all about control and grace—when done well, it looks effortless, but it starts with strong fundamentals.

Dial in Your Stance

Before you even think about stepping forward, get comfortable with your stance. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, knees soft, and body centered. The key here is balance—feeling connected to your board and stable in your position.

Timing is Everything

Good cross-stepping starts with choosing the right moment. Look for smooth, peeling waves that allow time to move. It’s much easier to cross-step on clean, unbroken faces where you can trust your board will stay stable.

The First Step

To begin, gently shift your weight to your back foot. This creates space to lift your front foot and cross it over. Keep your body low, stay relaxed, and step lightly. Your goal is to minimize weight transfer, maintaining even pressure to keep the board from rocking or slowing down.

Then bring your back foot over and repeat. Take small, deliberate steps to start, no need to rush.

Practice Makes Smooth

Like anything in surfing, cross-stepping takes time. Start practicing on land—balance boards or even walking along a line can help. Then move to the water and start small. Even a couple of steps can improve your feel for the board and open up new possibilities in your surfing.

Bonus Tip: Ride the Trim Line

Understanding where your board moves fastest—the “trim line”—helps you cross-step more confidently. Aim to move when your board is gliding cleanly down the face, not stalling or racing ahead of the wave. Staying in the pocket gives you the control to walk forward and back without losing speed or stability.

Cross-stepping isn’t just a technique—it’s a way to dance with the wave, to add flow and finesse to your ride. Whether you’re aiming to hang five or just want to move with more style, learning this essential footwork will elevate your time in the water.

So, next time you’re out on a clean wave, take a deep breath, feel your balance, and step forward.

Let the board guide you—and enjoy the ride.