The Current Winter surfing in Canada's oceans and Great Lakes
Dec 16, 2025
Join Vesa Luomaranta, owner of Superior East Board Shop and winter surfing guru, Jess Demas, a surf instructor from Tofino, and Dean Petty, a former pro surfer from Nova Scotia, as they dive into the thrilling world of winter surfing across Canada. They discuss the massive waves on Lake Superior, the unique community vibe of Atlantic winter sessions, and the transformative power of cold-water surfing. Discover essential gear, the thrill of chasing the perfect wave, and why these surfers embrace the cold despite the challenges!
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Lake Superior Feels Like The Ocean
- Vesa Luomaranta describes towering Lake Superior winter waves that look like ocean swells and produce rideable sets.
- He recalls first surfing in 2009 after hearing others surf Superior and getting a cold-water wetsuit from Thunder Bay.
Wear A Proper 6/5 Wetsuit With Layers
- Use a thick winter wetsuit (commonly a 6/5 with a hood) to stay warm while paddling in near-freezing waters.
- Prepare extra layers for changing afterward because post-surf ice and getting changed is the hardest part.
Tofino Course Changed Her Career
- Jess Demas recounts moving to B.C. in 2008, joining an adventure guide program, and taking a surf course despite initial doubts.
- That first cold-water experience hooked her and changed her career path toward teaching surfing.