Hailing from the coastal paradise of California, surfing icon, Ted Robinson has dedicated over five decades to perfecting the art of wave riding. His remarkable abilities to read swells, navigate diverse conditions, and conquer all types of boards and stance styles set him apart as a true icon in the industry. Ted’s deep connection with the ocean and extensive travels have given him an unparalleled understanding of wave dynamics, board design, and technique.
As a coach, Ted Robinson is in a league of his own. His decades of experience, from competing at the highest levels to coaching the next generation of surfers and hydrofoilers, have honed his ability to teach and inspire while sharing his passion. His unique insight, laid-back personality, and keen sense of wave formation make Ted a sought-after coach for beginners looking for a non-judgemental and enjoyable experience and for more advanced surfers and hydrofoilers looking to hone their skills. His holistic approach covers everything from wave reading, to board selection, to physical and mental preparation. This ensures students are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in the water. With Ted Robinson as your coach, you're learning from one of the best in the world, a true expert of the craft whose guidance will elevate your surfers and hydrofoilers to all new heights.
“The ocean is everything to me. My dedication to the ocean has saved me, shaped me, and helped develop me into the person I am today. Without the ocean, I can’t imagine where I would be. I feel younger than my age because I have dedicated myself to my ocean practice. My mission is to share with others what the ocean has given me.”
— Ted Robinson
Ranked as one of the top 25 best surfers in the world
Hermosa Beach Surfing Walk of Fame Member - an honor reserved for a small group of pros who made significant contributions to the surfing community in and out of the water
World Tour Competitor - 7 years, World Surf League
Named a top longboarder for the Professional Surfing Association of America
Named a ‘California Icon’ by the LA Surf Awards for his lasting impact on California's surfing culture
National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) National Team, 4 years
6 Quarter Final appearances in multiple world tour events
United States Championship Winner - Professional Longboard Association, San Onofre, 1999
Featured in the 1987 Astroboyz Trading card series
Winner - Surfline’s “Go-Pro of the Month”
Featured on the cover of many magazines, including Surfing Magazine, Longboard Magazine, and more
Competed among other legends in a multitude of competitions hosted by notable organizations such as the American Surfing Association, Western Surfing Association, South Bay Boardriders Club Series, and National Scholastic Surfing Association’s Professional Longboard Association
Sponsorships and partnerships with brands like Catch Surf, Maui and Sons, Body Glove, Rusty, O'Neill, Rip Curl, and more
Sales Representative for O'Neill, Rusty, and Rip Curl for over 29 years
Modeling for fashion brands, including Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Maui and Sons, and more
Reading swells
Multitude of board styles
High-Quality Water Photography, even with tricky wave and lighting conditions
Going switchfoot - all the best watermen can challenge their brains, bodies, and balance skills by changing their stance
Reading surfer and hydrofoiler body language, lines, and mechanics
Technical eye for style, power, finesse, and body placement
Deep knowledge of equiptment that allows Ted to help clients choose the perfect equipment based on their progress and goals
Locations Surfed - Ted has surfed all across the globe throughout his career to demonstrate his skills in a diverse range of conditions. Here is a list of just a few of the many renowned spots and legendary destinations he has surfed:
Australia
South Africa
England
France
Brazil
Japan
Fiji
Hawaii - including famous surfing beaches like Waimea, Pipeline, and Sunset Beach