1. Hogging the sets Don't take all the best waves. Spare a thought for those not advantaged by nine-foot-plus of paddling power. If it's crowded, let a set or two roll through for the guys on the inside between rides.

2. Wrapping your leash around your tail The best way to ruin a nice new leash is to wrap it tightly around the tail of your board after a session. Next thing you know, it'll be full of kinks and you'll get all tangled up in it when you walk to the nose.

3. Bailing at the sign of an approaching set If you cant duck dive your mal, at least learn to roll it so you save the surfer behind you from getting scalped by your 9'6". Even better, time your paddle so it coincides with a decent lull and make the most of any channels.

4. Using over-sized fins A thick, fat board with three huge fins is a liability in the lineup 'cos you won't be able to turn it.

5. Shuffling instead of walking Okay, not everyone is Lance Carson, but if you want to get on the nose you've got to learn to cross step. Walking the board allows the smoothest possible weight transition as you move from tail to tip.

6. Pretending you're nose-riding while standing way down the plank Go on, stretch a leg out and get those toes over.

7. Losing faith when it comes to beefy waves If it's the right shape, a nine-foot board can be an advantage in solid waves – look at Duane DeSoto charging Teahupoo, Bonga Perkins at Pipe, or Beau Young at Puerto Escondido.

8. Not paying enough attention to the old-school masters Longboarding has a rich heritage, so go back to the roots and learn a few things from the all-time greats. Check out trim king Micky Dora at Malibu, Phil Edwards at Makaha, Jock Sutherland at Honolua Bay, and Butch van Artsdaln at Pipe.

9. Getting too retro We've moved on from the 60's and there are a whole load of more functional board designs to choose from these days. Don't get stuck in the past, look to the future.

10. Riding a longboard just to get more waves Longboarding isn't about catching waves earlier than shortboarders. Its about soul, spirit and style. Get into it...and enjoy.