Riding big waves

[Gman]

Big waves are often due to rapid shallowing of the terrain beneath them. It's not unusual at all to be pounded into whatever is below the water once the wave breaks over you. This really sucks for surfing over coral reefs.

A PFD would also limit your ability to duck dive beneath waves waiting for the right one. These guys are getting towed, but as was pointed out, you'll want the extra flexibility to dive when necessary.