Rip Currents — What They Are and How to Survive One

Rip currents are one of the most misunderstood ocean hazards.

They don’t pull you under.
They don’t drag you down.
But they can carry you away from shore faster than you expect.

Understanding how they work can save your life.

What Is a Rip Current?

A rip current is a narrow, fast-moving channel of water that flows from the shoreline back out toward deeper water.

They form when waves push water toward the beach and that water needs a way to return to sea. The returning flow concentrates into a powerful stream that moves straight outward.

Rip currents can:

• Move as fast as 5–8 feet per second
• Carry swimmers hundreds of feet offshore
• Form suddenly and shift locations

They are strongest near sandbars, piers, jetties, and breaks in waves.

Why Rip Currents Are Dangerous

Rip currents don’t usually pull swimmers underwater.

The danger comes from panic.

When someone tries to swim directly back toward shore against the current, exhaustion sets in quickly. Even strong swimmers can become overwhelmed.

Most rip current rescues happen because people fight the current instead of working with it.

How to Survive a Rip Current

If you find yourself caught in a rip current:

• Stay calm
• Do not fight the current
• Float or tread water to conserve energy
• Swim parallel to the shoreline to escape the current
• Signal for help if needed

Once free of the current, angle back toward shore.

The ocean is powerful — but predictable when understood.

Why We Designed the RIP Current Tee

The RIP Current design reflects the dual nature of the ocean — beautiful, powerful, and deserving of respect.

Coastal culture isn’t just about waves and sunsets.

It’s about awareness.

At 17th & Surf, we create designs inspired by the water — and we believe understanding it is part of honoring it.

For those who love the sea.