Edinburgh Napier University is committed to excellence in sport and exercise science, combining cutting-edge research with real-world impact. From elite performance studies to community wellbeing initiatives, the University leads innovation across multiple disciplines.

Problem:

Surfing is a rapidly growing sport and wellness activity, yet for many years, there has been very little structured research into its performance aspects, technological development, and health benefits. This lack of evidence-based insight limits innovation in the industry and makes it harder to demonstrate the positive social and economic impact surfing can have on communities.

Solution:

The Surf Lab provides a world-first research and innovation hub by partnering Edinburgh Napier University with Lost Shore Surf Resort. It offers a controlled environment for surf-related studies, enabling evidence-based insights into performance, technology, and wellbeing. By combining academic expertise with industry facilities, the lab drives innovation, supports business growth, and delivers social and economic benefits for communities.

Making waves in global surf research and innovation 

Officially launched in October 2025, The Surf Lab is a pioneering research and innovation hub created in partnership with Edinburgh Napier University and Lost Shore Surf Resort. This world-first initiative is the only collaboration globally between a university and a commercial wave pool, designed to transform surfing through science, technology, and community impact.

The Surf Lab was established to address a major gap in surf-related research. Surfing is a rapidly growing sport and wellness activity, yet there has been little structured evidence to support performance improvement, product development, and the health benefits associated with surf therapy. By providing a controlled environment for research and testing, The Surf Lab combines academic expertise with industry facilities to deliver insights that will shape the future of surfing.

Connecting surfing and society for lasting impact

The vision for The Surf Lab goes beyond sport. It aims to make surfing more accessible, inclusive, and sustainable, while delivering measurable benefits for mental and physical wellbeing. The Lab also plays a vital role in strengthening communities by promoting engagement and increasing educational participation.

The Surf Lab is also a catalyst for innovation and growth. By driving regional economic development, creating jobs, and fostering new businesses, it’s helping shape the future of surfing and beyond.

For industry partners, The Surf Lab provides an opportunity to collaborate with Edinburgh Napier’s world-class experts and facilities, tapping into knowledge exchange, consultancy, licensing, and joint research projects.