No-one knows when or how surfing originated, but we all know it comes deep from Polynesian, as well Micronesian & Melanesian, cultures. Women and men throughout the pacific surfed, and it was often thought to be part spiritual practice, part pleasure, or associated with social prestige. It was part of Mana. It showed athleticism, skill, bravery, and also deep & intimate knowledge of the ocean. This is where our love affair with the ocean originated- from Hawaii to Tonga, Samoa and Tahiti- these little islands adrift in Moana. In Hawaii it was called  heʻe ʻana (the art of surfing) or heʻe nalu (wave sliding). 

The term ‘Betty’ is a surfing-slang word for a woman who surfs. The word became popular in west-coast USA in the 80s to refer to these counter-culture badass surf and skater girls. It’s now spread to include other board sports such as snowboarding. Some claim the name ‘Betty’ originates from Betty Grable, a timeless 1930’s film star and original pin-up girl, or Bettie Page, another popular beauty, who’s iconic fringe style was often copied by skater and surf chicas.