How to Pig Dog: The Key to Backside Barrel Riding

Mastering the ‘pig-dog’ technique is an essential skill for backside surfing, especially when the drops are steep or you’re trying to tuck in under the lip. This position, which is as unique as its name, is the best way to maintain control and stay tight to the face of the wave when backside barrel riding.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you master it:

1. Hold the Outside Rail:As you pop up, place your outside hand on the rail and keep it there throughout the barrel. This grip acts as an anchor, offering greater control and stability inside the wave while allowing you to make subtle adjustments to your position, helping you rise or drop within the barrel as needed.

2. Shift Weight Onto Front Foot: Place most of your weight on your front foot as this helps to drive the board forward and engage the inside rail for better control. Position your front foot slightly forward and closer to the inside rail, keeping your chest close to your knee. This opens up your hips and helps keep your momentum going forward. 

3. Bend your Back Knee Inwards: Keep your back knee bent inwards and as close to the deck as possible (no ‘poo stances’ here please!). This low, compact position helps maintain a low center of gravity, giving you more stability inside the barrel.

4. Lean into the Wave: Leaning your weight against the face of the wave and letting your front arm drag in the face can help control your speed and balance as you travel through the wave. This also helps you fit the natural shape of the wave, which is especially important in tighter, smaller waves where there isn’t much wiggle room.

5. Stalling with a Hip Check: If you’re going too fast and want to stay in the barrel longer, use a “hip check” to slow down. By dropping your hip into the wave, you’ll decrease speed and allow the wave to catch up, helping you stay deep in the pocket. This technique works especially well when you're in a hollow section of the wave.

6. Exiting the Barrel: As you near the end of the barrel, decide whether to hold on to the rail or let go for a clean exit. Stay low until you see the right moment to release and ride out smoothly. Letting go of the rail just before you exit will give you that stylish, controlled finish.

Conclusion

Pig-dogging is a very technical maneuver that requires a lot of commitment, focus, and patience.  If you want to get a real feel for this technique, study surfers like Jamie O'Brien & John John Florence, who’ve perfected backside barrel riding and make it look effortless on the North Shore.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Start by dialing in your pig dog technique in smaller shore breaks and closeouts to build confidence. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become, allowing you to tackle bigger and more challenging waves over time.