Finally one thing I personally have trouble with is: dealing with is the difference between doing a vertical reo on a really powerful wave vs a really soft wave (and still getting the board above the lip in both occassions). Any advice?
On a less powerful wave you need to rely on your leg strengths more than in powerful waves. To setup a vertical reo in waves that are not very powerful you need to get down low in your bottom turn so that you can spring out of the bottom turn to get enough speed to get your board above the lip.
On a powerful wave if you are close to where it is breaking/in the pocket, you will have speed from the wave and will generate enough speed to get vertical without trying as hard. Unless its a really sucky wave, then you need to turn off the top with all the power and speed you can so you don’t get smashed. Turn really quickly and get down the wave before it breaks so it doesn’t pitch you, that’s if it’s really sucky/dumping.
Thanks mate
Christo