Exploring the Design of Playful Devices for Surfing

Abstract

Surfing is a popular recreational activity that benefits from technological innovation, such as the precision manufacturing of surfboards and apps for coaching. These advances have mostly focused on improving athletic performance, while the experiential aspects of surfing remain underexplored in terms of the design of mediating interactive technology. Hence, We aim to explore how playful interactive technology design can enrich the surfing experience. We adopted a soma design approach, considering the simultaneous influence of technology, body, and environment on surfing practice. Our process resulted in two design concepts: a smart wearable top and a soft robot, both aiming to connect the surfer to ocean information through haptic stimuli. By analysing and reflecting on our soma-technology-water design process, we provide design insights advancing the knowledge for future design of interactive technology to enrich the surfing experience in a playful way. Our research contributes to aquatic interactive design knowledge, inspiring WaterHCI researchers and industry stakeholders to leverage interactive technology to enrich the water activity experiences of the world’s most iconic coastal water sport.