Every Man Jack has our very own Omni-Man. As Senior Director of Omnichannel Strategy, Nolan Koon brings harmony to how customers experience our brand, online and off.

That’s great for us, because finding the perfect balance is Nolan’s specialty. He’s our resident surfer: a tall, blonde, broad-shouldered former athlete with the laid-back ease of a California beach bum.

For him, surfing isn’t just a sport. It’s a way to stay grounded and channel a sense of flow into his work.

"To me, surfing is the perfect outdoor sport. There’s the element of fitness but also meditation and creativity. I love the calm mornings watching a sunrise, and the trips down the coast looking for waves. Each wave is an opportunity to draw a line of my choosing."

After a successful swimming career in college (where he qualified for the Olympic trials AND won an NCAA title in the breaststroke), Nolan stayed in the water. It just got saltier.

"After my athletic career came to a close I had a bit of an identity crisis. I’d spent so much time as a “swimmer” and I felt I needed to reinvent myself. Thankfully I had a few friends that introduced me to surfing–and the Pacific Ocean.

My first winter here in San Francisco, when the waves are usually best, was spent just trying to figure out how to move on the board. I rarely actually popped up. But I stuck with it and have been progressing ever since."

Nolan’s Tips for New Surfers

So how do you start surfing, anyway? It’s a sport built around a community that can feel exclusive to many. Hard to break into. So we asked Nolan about his thoughts on how to join the party and build one of the coolest hobbies around.

"If I were to recommend one thing when surfing, it's to be a good person. Be aware of and respectful of others no matter the situation."

Be Water Safe

Swimming capability is a requirement for the sport (if anyone tells you otherwise they are terrible people), so start there. I’d also encourage anyone learning to study the way the ocean moves at beaches. Learn what a riptide is and how to get out of it, be comfortable ducking under a wave without a sense of panic, learn what high/low tide is, etc.

Get Some Help

I do find that being instructed or shown how to do a sport/activity is the most efficient way to learn. I’d encourage anyone interested to consider lessons or reach out to that surfing friend you might know.

Have the Right Equipment

All beaches are not created equal. Do your research on water temp, wave size, and ideal board for the location / your capabilities. 

Wear Sunscreen

There’s no escaping the sun when out on the water! Check out Every Man Jack’s SPF 30 Mineral Face Lotion for the perfect mix of skin hydration and protection.

Always Be Aware of Your Surroundings

It's important to be present while surfing so you’re safe while having fun. Pay attention to other surfers, changes in the way the water is moving, or even when there’s a change in the sea life.

Know Your Limits

There’s a common saying from lifeguards and water folk: “If in doubt, don't go out.” In the water I love to push myself to grow, but I also try my best to be aware of risk and not take on more than I feel I can handle. Be honest with yourself and your abilities and you’ll have more fun.

 

Other Surfing Tips

• The person taking off closest to the peak (apex of the wave) has the right of way.

• If someone is up and surfing a wave, consider it theirs to surf as they please. Try your best not to paddle for or pop up on a wave already being ridden by another surfer.

• Don't “ditch” your board. Letting go of your board can be dangerous both to you and those around you (they’re like missiles in the water). Do your best to hold onto it.

• Communicate. Talking is totally ok in the lineup and it can be helpful to get more people on waves – ie. asking someone which direction they plan to go (right/left) on a wave you’re both paddling for.

Got Any Cool Surfing Stories?

"I’ve got stories of epic waves, dangerous experiences (even an encounter with a very, very large fish), but they’ll either bore you or absolutely terrify you.

Here’s one that was so amazing it sounds like I made it up: One morning before work, I was surfing with a friend and we were both blown away by the sunrise. Late summer at Ocean Beach usually means more marine life. Sure enough, as I popped up on a wave, two dolphins appeared and started surfing it with me. I was already in disbelief when, just as I kicked out, a whale breached in the distance. For about 15 seconds, I genuinely thought I might be Aquaman. Spoiler: I’m not."

 

Favorite Places to Surf

"I live just a few minutes from Ocean Beach in San Francisco, and from October to February, that’s where you’ll usually find me. I haven’t surfed everywhere, but I’d bet Ocean Beach is one of the most dynamic spots out there. The waves can range from mellow 2-footers to monster 20-foot sets. Some days, you paddle out in minutes. Other days, it takes 30 … enough time to question why you even do this.

It’s a constantly shifting challenge thanks to the sandy bottom, but when the conditions align, there’s nothing better. The surf community here is great, too. Respectful, low-key, and passionate.

And like any good surfer, I’m not giving away my other favorite spots. Some things are better kept secret."

Fave EMJ Products

I'm a big fan of our new Pro Deodorant; Coastal Surf is my preferred fragrance. My longtime go-to while working at Every Man Jack has been Sandalwood (in every product) but especially body wash. It's just a classic. 

Grab Nolan’s favorites here:

Pro Deodorant Coastal Surf

Smell like a natural wonder for 48 straight hours with our most advanced odor protection yet.

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Sandalwood Body Wash

Hydrating and hyper-cleansing, our Body Wash comes with naturally derived ingredients and scents inspired by the coolest places on Earth.

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