SurfLoch’s WaveBender: The Future of Artificial Waves

For over 40 years, SurfLoch has revolutionized the world of artificial waves, leading to the development of its most ambitious project yet: the WaveBender. This innovative surf pool design aims to replicate the intricate beauty and authenticity of natural ocean waves, boasting a unique wave face that curves invitingly towards surfers. Founder Tom Lochtefeld reflects on the evolution of artificial waves and how the WaveBender represents the culmination of decades of innovation, transcending basic wave-making technology to deliver an authentic and thrilling surfing experience.

Who is Tom Lochtefeld?

Tom Lochtefeld, a passionate surfer and visionary, laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey in Coronado, California. Growing up near the Pacific coast, he developed a deep love for surfing while also pursuing a career in real estate law. In the late 1980s, inspired by the water parks he helped develop in California, Tom began his quest to create artificial waves by experimenting with water dynamics. His early work led to a groundbreaking patent in 1988 for a wave-forming generator, resulting in the debut of the FlowRider in 1991, which forever changed the landscape of surf attractions and culminated in the popular FlowBarrel. By establishing the Wave House venues in the early 2000s, Tom not only created a space for surfing but also fostered a vibrant lifestyle that attracted enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. His unwavering commitment led to the creation of SurfLoch in 2014, where he now focuses on delivering authentic, surfable waves to inland areas.

What WaveBender Is

The WaveBender is built around SurfLoch’s renowned pneumatic caisson engines, similar to those used in their previous installations at places like The Palm Springs Surf Club. However, the WaveBender introduces a reimagined design: instead of a straight wall of wave-making machines, the caissons are arranged in a semi-circle. This strategic placement works in tandem with an intricately designed pool floor, allowing for a dynamic wave that breaks and curves like a natural reef pass. The design introduces what SurfLoch describes as a wave with "ocean-like power," which enhances the surfing experience by creating a wave face that bends toward the surfer, mimicking real ocean breaks.

How It Works

Utilizing advanced pneumatic technology, the WaveBender generates waves through compressed-air caissons, but its groundbreaking pool layout significantly transforms the surfing dynamics. The semi-circular arrangement of wave engines alters the wave’s pulse entry, while the contoured pool floor governs how the wave breaks. With customizable features that offer both 1-degree and 3-degree bending modes, operators can adjust the wave’s behavior to either wrap more aggressively or maintain a smooth break. Riders can experience wave heights reaching up to six feet, with ride times extending up to 18 seconds. The pool’s design fosters efficiency with a rhythm that can produce waves every 13 seconds, nearly doubling the capacity compared to other surf parks.

What Makes It Different

Unlike most artificial wave systems, which tend to either shape a traveling swell or generate a central pulse, the WaveBender integrates a unique approach by utilizing a semi-circular wave engine setup to emulate the characteristics of natural reef breaks. This configuration permits the wave to possess more variability, resulting in a surfing experience that mimics real ocean conditions, complete with hollow sections perfect for advanced maneuvers. The WaveBender accommodates surfers of all skill levels by creating distinct zones within the pool that cater separately to beginners, casual surfers, and advanced riders, ensuring that everyone gets to enjoy tailored waves in a single session.

Behind the Scenes

Operational efficiency is critical for wave pools, and SurfLoch’s WaveWare software plays a central role in managing the WaveBender. This established system simplifies wave settings and monitors performance while allowing for customization based on real-estate needs and revenue goals. With ongoing projects across the United States, Brazil, and Australia, the WaveBender is set to redefine surfing attractions, focusing on creating destinations that capture both surfers’ interests and investment returns. As Tom Lochtefeld envisions, the goal is to build venues where surfers can discover their passion while developers find viable business opportunities that contribute to the sport’s growth.

Looking Ahead

The future of surfing is bright with the development of WaveBender pools, aimed to launch in various locations by 2026. With desirable features such as six-foot wave faces, quick ride times, and customizable experiences, SurfLoch’s latest innovation promises to take guests on an exhilarating journey reminiscent of tropical surf breaks. For those eager to catch a wave without traveling to the coast, the WaveBender represents a monumental step toward bringing the ocean experience inland and cultivating a new wave of surfing enthusiasts.

For further insights into artificial wave technology and SurfLoch’s innovations, visit SurfLoch and explore the adventures waiting for you at WaveBender venues.