WHAT IS MY SURFING LEVEL?
1. How long have you been surfing?
2. How do you handle catching waves?
3. How do you move on the wave?
4. What is your autonomy in the water?
5. How do you pass the bar (breaking zone)?
6. What type of board do you mainly use?
7. What maneuvers can you perform?
8. What size wave can you surf with confidence?
9. How do you read the waves and the spot?
10. How often do you surf?
YOUR SURFING LEVEL
SURF LEVEL CHART
Level | Classification | French Surfing Federation | Key skills |
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Level 1.1 Total beginner | First Mousse level 1 Bronze |
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Level 1.2 Beginner with limited experience | First Mousse level 2 Bronze |
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Level 1.3 Beginner with experience | Bronze Wave Level 1 Bronze |
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Level 2.1 Intermediate | Bronze Wave Level 2 Bronze |
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Level 2.2 Advanced Intermediate | Silver Wave Level 1 Silver |
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Level 3.1 Advance |
Silver Wave Level 2 Silver |
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Level 3.2 Very advanced |
Gold Wave Level 1 Gold |
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Level 3.3 Expert |
Gold Wave Level 2 Gold |
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NOTES ON PROGRESSION
- Progression is not linear and the time taken to move from one level to the next increases exponentially.
- According to experts, the approximate progression times are:
- Level 1 → 2: A few days to a few weeks
- Level 2 → 3: A few weeks to a few months
- Level 3 → 4: A few months to a few years
- Complete Mastery of Level 3.3: A few years to a few decades
- Self-assessment generally tends to overestimate one's level - it is recommended to seek the advice of a professional instructor for an objective assessment.
Our Guides and Advice

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