: Legendary surfers like Laird Hamilton argue that wiping out is an under-appreciated skill; if you aren't falling, you likely aren't pushing your limits to improve.

: The track was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2020 and has appeared in over 20 films and TV series across every decade since its release. 2. The Surfer's Rite of Passage

In surfing, a "wipeout" describes the moment a rider is thrown off their board by a wave.

: The term is also used in skiing and snowboarding to describe sudden, violent falls, often requiring specific physical conditioning to prevent injury. 3. Entertainment and Media

: It is instantly recognizable by its manic drum solo and the maniacal laugh at the beginning—which was actually intended to mimic the sound of a surfboard snapping.

: Wiping out can be dangerous, involving "hold-downs" underwater or collisions with reefs and boards. Expert surfers use techniques like covering their heads with their arms and falling flat to distribute impact.

The thrill and comedy of a "wipeout" have been harnessed for broad audiences: