Measuring Wave Heights

[Brooklyn]

I was reading a few different threads that touched on wave heights...how exactly do you measure the height of a wave, I have heard that some measure the face of the wave and others the backside of the wave. Which is the correct or standard way as both would produce different results:?:

[Driftingalong]

There is no correct or standard way.
It varies depending on where you are.
Then there's the experience/machismo factor as well.

Generally the less experienced over estimate the wave height.

I personally like the wave face because that is what I'll be riding.

But, there is also a power factor to waves that is not even mentioned.
A 5' mush-burger is very different than a 5' freight train!

[Brooklyn]

Ocean City is the bomb...love the boardwalk there.

thanks for the info, so when someone is talking about the wave height how do you know if they are talkin face or backside.

[Driftingalong]

If someone is using body features (i.e. waist high), it's a safe bet they're taking about face height.
If you take note of what someone's reporting before you check the surf for yourself you'll understand that particular sources gauge better.
Experience in knowing the source.

[Stone Fox]

Ok, case in point.

Look in the pics thread, the FIRST photo I post. How how would everyone here say that was?

[Brooklyn]

driftalong...do you live in ocean city?

[Driftingalong]

driftalong...do you live in ocean city?

No...about 15 mins. west right off RT. 50 in a small town called Willards.
OC is were most of my surfing takes place (sometimes in Assateague too).

[Brooklyn]

Spent a lot of time in salisbury...love it down there...Duffy's Love Shack