Art of longboarding

Your name and where you’re from.

My name is Summer Richley and I'm from Costa Mesa, California. I moved down to Oceanside when I turned 18, and have now been living in Australia for the past year.

Size and model of the board you ride?

I ride a 9'5 Troy Elmore nose rider

How would you describe your long boarding style?

I think my style just depends on the day really. Some days it's very chaotic and quick but other days it's smoothed out.

Who or what inspires your style?

Everything inspires my style! And I feel like it changes all the time! I really love Jaleesa Vincent's style, not only in her surfing but her art, music, clothes, etc.

Do you see long boarding as an art form? If so, how?

Yeah I'd say surfing is an art form. It's a form of expression. But it's also a great way to get active while doing something you love. You could look at it in multiple ways. I never really think too deep about it, I just love having fun with my friends in the water.

The perfect longboard wave size?

I love a little 2-3 ft swell. Not a fan of big waves, but I want to be.

What’s your take on the surf culture around long boarding?

The culture around long boarding has shifted a lot. Everyone is long boarding now! So many chicks that are ripping. The Vans Duct Tape invitationals always had a great idea with it. I feel like I've fallen out of the scene of it all for the past 8 months.It's been nice to find a new appreciation for surfing and all the good things that come with it.

Your favorite local surf spot?

Probably Blackies where I grew up, but I haven't been there in awhile sadly. I was driving to San Onofre or Doheny quite a bit. I always had a good time at Oceanside harbor as well, and it was just down the street.