Remembering a champion

Dale Dobson was more than just a surfer; he was a true pioneer of the sport. Crowned the U.S. Surfing Champion in 1972, Dobson’s style and technical ability set him apart from his peers. His mastery of both regular and goofy-foot stances made him one of the most versatile surfers of his generation, earning him widespread respect in the global surf community.

Born and raised in California, Dobson grew up immersed in the surf culture that defined the West Coast. He quickly gained recognition for his fluid style and fearless approach to waves of all sizes. Whether competing in high-profile contests or free surfing along the coast, he brought an effortless grace to every session. His ability to read the ocean and adapt to shifting conditions made him a formidable competitor and an inspiration to surfers worldwide.

Throughout the 1970s, Dobson’s influence extended beyond competition. He was a regular presence in surf magazines and films, showcasing his unique ability to switch stances mid-wave with seamless precision. His performances in legendary breaks cemented his reputation as one of the most technically gifted surfers of his time. Even as the sport evolved, his contributions remained a benchmark for aspiring surfers looking to push the boundaries of style and technique.

Dobson’s impact wasn’t limited to his own achievements. He was a mentor to many young surfers, always willing to share his knowledge and passion for the sport. His generosity and love for surfing left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing him. As the surf community reflects on his passing, his legacy as a champion and innovator continues to inspire generations of wave riders.

A legacy of switch-foot mastery

Dobson’s ability to ride waves with equal mastery in both regular and goofy-foot stances set him apart as one of the most technically gifted surfers of his era. While many surfers spend years perfecting a single stance, Dobson’s switch-foot style allowed him to adapt effortlessly to any wave, making his surfing both unpredictable and mesmerising to watch. His transitions between stances were so smooth that, to the untrained eye, it often seemed as though he was simply flowing with the wave rather than consciously shifting his footing.

His switch-foot prowess wasn’t just a novelty—it was a strategic advantage. By being able to adjust his stance mid-wave, Dobson could position himself more effectively for critical sections, extending his rides and maximising his control. This skill was particularly evident in powerful reef breaks and hollow waves, where quick adjustments could mean the difference between making a section or wiping out. His ability to read the wave and instinctively switch stances in response to its changing shape made him a formidable competitor and a standout in free-surfing sessions.

Beyond competition, Dobson’s switch-foot mastery influenced an entire generation of surfers. His performances in surf films and magazine spreads showcased the beauty and functionality of a fluid stance, inspiring many to experiment with their own footwork. While switch-foot surfing remains a rare skill at the highest levels of the sport, those who have embraced it often credit Dobson as one of their earliest influences.

Even as surfing evolved with the introduction of new board designs and progressive manoeuvres, Dobson’s approach remained timeless. His emphasis on flow, adaptability, and style continues to resonate with surfers today, proving that true mastery of the sport isn’t just about innovation—it’s about understanding the wave and moving with it in perfect harmony.

Tributes from the surf community

Following the news of Dale Dobson’s passing, tributes have poured in from surfers, industry figures, and fans who were touched by his influence. Many have taken to social media to share their memories, highlighting not only his incredible talent but also his generosity and kindness within the surf community. Fellow surfers who competed alongside him recall his sportsmanship and the effortless way he approached even the most challenging waves.

Australian surf legend Mark Richards described Dobson as “one of the most naturally gifted surfers I’ve ever seen,” adding that his ability to switch stances mid-wave was “something truly special to witness.” Richards also noted that Dobson’s style had a lasting impact on how surfers approached wave-riding, particularly in the way he blended power with grace.

Former world champion Shaun Tomson also paid tribute, calling Dobson “a true innovator” whose approach to surfing was ahead of its time. “Dale had this incredible ability to make the impossible look effortless,” Tomson said. “He was a surfer’s surfer—someone who understood the ocean in a way that few ever do.”

“Dale was one of those rare surfers who could make any wave look like a perfect canvas. His switch-foot style wasn’t just a skill—it was an art form.” — Wayne Lynch

Beyond the professional surf scene, many everyday surfers have shared their personal encounters with Dobson, recalling moments when he offered advice in the lineup or simply shared a wave with a smile. His willingness to encourage younger surfers and pass on his knowledge left a lasting impression on those who had the chance to meet him.

Surf filmmaker Jack McCoy reflected on Dobson’s impact, saying, “He wasn’t just a competitor—he was a storyteller on the waves. Every ride was a lesson in style, flow, and creativity.” McCoy also noted that Dobson’s presence in surf films helped shape the way surfing was perceived, inspiring countless surfers to experiment with their own approach to wave-riding.

As paddle-outs and memorial gatherings are planned in his honour, it’s clear that Dobson’s influence extends far beyond his competitive achievements. His legacy lives on in the surfers he inspired, the waves he rode, and the countless stories shared by those who had the privilege of watching him in action.

Remembering a champion: Dale Dobson’s legacy

Dale Dobson wasn’t just a surfer—he was a force of nature. The 1972 U.S. Champion carved his name into the sport with a style so smooth it looked effortless, but anyone who’s paddled out knows that kind of mastery takes years of dedication. His ability to read the ocean, adapt to any wave, and make it look like a casual Sunday stroll set him apart from the rest.

Born with saltwater in his veins, Dobson was a pioneer of style and technique. He didn’t just ride waves—he danced with them. Whether it was a grinding Californian point break or a hollow reef pass, he made it look like child’s play. And let’s not forget his legendary switch-foot skills—most surfers struggle to master one stance, but Dobson could swap feet mid-ride without missing a beat.

“Dale had this way of making the impossible look easy. He was a magician on a board,”

said one of his longtime surf mates. And that’s the truth—his surfing wasn’t just about competition; it was about pushing the boundaries of what was possible on a wave.

Beyond the trophies and accolades, Dobson was a mentor, a mate, and a true waterman. He inspired generations of surfers to loosen up, have fun, and never take themselves too seriously. Because at the end of the day, that’s what surfing is all about—chasing the perfect wave and enjoying the ride.

The art of switch-foot surfing

Switch-foot surfing isn’t just a party trick—it’s an art form, and Dale Dobson was its undisputed master. Most surfers spend their whole lives perfecting one stance, but Dobson? He could swap feet mid-ride like he was changing gears in an old ute, making it look as natural as breathing. Whether he was leading with his left or right, his style never faltered, his flow never broke. It was pure poetry in motion.

Riding switch isn’t just about looking cool (though let’s be honest, it does). It’s about control, balance, and reading the wave in a way few can. Dobson had an uncanny ability to adjust on the fly, shifting his stance to suit the wave’s mood. One moment he’d be carving a deep bottom turn regular-footed, the next he’d be gliding through a section goofy, as if he’d been born that way. It was this versatility that made him such a formidable competitor and an absolute joy to watch.

“Dale didn’t just ride waves—he played with them. He could switch stance mid-barrel and still come out looking like he was on a Sunday cruise,”

recalled one of his old surf mates. And that’s the thing—while most surfers would be scrambling just to stay upright, Dobson was styling his way through sections, making the impossible look effortless.

His switch-foot mastery wasn’t just about flair; it was a tactical advantage. He could adapt to any wave, any condition, and always find the best line. Whether it was a long, peeling point break or a punchy beachie, he had the ability to adjust on the fly, keeping his options open and his style intact. It’s the kind of skill that separates the greats from the legends.

For those who’ve ever tried to switch stance mid-wave, you’ll know it’s about as easy as wrestling a croc. But Dobson? He made it look like second nature. And that’s why he’ll always be remembered—not just as a champion, but as one of the most stylish, innovative surfers to ever paddle out.