A wave that breaks over a coral or rock reef. Reef breaks produce consistent, well-shaped waves but carry higher risk of injury from the hard bottom.
Reef breaks form where swell hits a fixed, hard bottom — either coral reef or rock shelf. Because the reef doesn't move like sand does, reef breaks produce remarkably consistent waves. The same spot will break in the same shape every time a similar swell arrives, which is why many of the world's most famous waves are reef breaks: Pipeline, Uluwatu, Teahupo'o, and Cloudbreak.
The downside is the reef itself. Wipeouts can result in cuts, scrapes, or worse from hitting sharp coral or rock. Reef breaks are generally for intermediate to advanced surfers who can control where they fall.
Reef boots can help protect your feet. Many reef breaks create flat-water lagoons on the inside — these lagoons are perfect for kitesurfing and SUP.
Example usage
"The reef break was perfect — 6-foot lefts peeling along the coral shelf for 200 meters."
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