River surfing has been having a moment. While the practice is not actually new (Germans have been surfing the Eisbach for decades), it seems to be having a surge in popularity in recent years. Maybe it’s the rise in popularity of novelty waves fueled by YouTubers, maybe it’s the growth of man-made features to ride, maybe it’s advances in surfboard technology and design that allow us to tackle previously unridable waves. It might be all of the above. Whatever is causing it, people can’t stay away from these freshwater breaks.
YouTuber Jamie O’Brien is no stranger to the sport, and his latest video took him to Salida, Colorado to surf what he calls “The best river wave in America.” However, since he arrived boardless, JOB started his journey at a local surf shop, where he picked up some purpose-built river surf craft before finally hitting the water.
“Always an epic experience riding all different kind of river waves. I love the people that are involved riding these waves. Everyone’s so happy. So fun, nothing but good vibes,” said O’Brien of the experience.
