the.com/impact zone
where the wave breaks its neck so you don't have to, mostly.
means the stretch of ocean where breaking waves release most of their energy, and where surfers get worked if they're caught inside.
from surf lingo born from paddling out and learning the hard way exactly where a wave's power concentrates before it spends itself on the shoulder.
duration underwaterhold-downs can last 10-30 seconds
big wave versionat pipeline it can shatter boards and bones
also meansbullet's entry point in forensics
safety ruleswim under, never fight the whitewater
for instance
pipeline oahu — shallow reef turns impact zone lethal, several deaths recorded
mavericks california — cold water big wave spot, hold-downs feared by pros
teahupoo tahiti — famously thick barrel, impact zone measured in inches of reef