Action Camera Surf Mouth Mount Guide for Epic Waves

Capture jaw-dropping, first-person wave action like never before with an action camera surf mouth mount—the hands-free, stabilized solution serious surfers trust for immersive POV footage. Engineered for stability and comfort, these mounts secure your camera at the perfect angle, letting you focus on the ride while recording ultra-smooth, epic wave sessions from your unique perspective.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a secure mouth mount: Ensure it fits snugly to avoid losing your camera in big waves.
• Prioritize comfort: Opt for soft, lightweight materials to reduce jaw fatigue during long sessions.
• Test before use: Practice with the mount on land to adjust positioning and breathing techniques.
• Angle matters: Position the camera slightly upward to capture clear wave action and horizon lines.
• Maintain your gear: Rinse the mount after saltwater exposure to prolong durability and hygiene.
• Stay safe: Always check the quick-release mechanism to prevent accidental drops in rough conditions.

Why the Action Camera Surf Mouth Mount Is a Game-Changer

Imagine you’re paddling out into the lineup, the sun glinting off the waves, your heart pounding with anticipation. You catch that perfect wave—the one that seems to rise from the ocean itself—and suddenly, you’re flying. The spray hits your face, your arms carve through the water, and for a few glorious seconds, you’re one with the ocean. Now, imagine capturing that moment—not from the shore, not from a drone, but from your own mouth.

That’s where the action camera surf mouth mount comes in. This unassuming piece of gear has quietly revolutionized how surfers document their rides. Unlike chest mounts or helmet straps, a mouth mount puts the camera right where the action is: your face. It gives a raw, first-person perspective that’s as close to “being there” as you can get. I remember my first time using one—I bit down on the mount, felt the familiar rubber grip, and took off on a wave. When I watched the footage later, I gasped. The wave looked massive, the spray looked real, and I could even hear my own breath and the roar of the water. It wasn’t just a video. It was a memory.

What Is a Surf Mouth Mount, and How Does It Work?

At its core, a surf mouth mount is a simple device. It’s a mouthpiece (usually made of soft, food-grade rubber) attached to a rigid arm that holds your action camera—like a GoPro or DJI Osmo Action—securely in front of your face. You bite down on the mouthpiece, and the camera sits just below your chin, pointing slightly upward to capture your face, your arms, and the wave ahead.

How the Design Makes a Difference

The magic lies in the engineering. A good surf mouth mount isn’t just a rubber piece you chew on. It’s designed for stability, comfort, and durability. Here’s what separates the good from the great:

• Ergonomic mouthpiece: Shaped to fit comfortably between your teeth and gums, with ridges to prevent slipping. Some models even come in different sizes for small, medium, or large mouths.
• Anti-slip coating: Prevents the mount from sliding out when you’re paddling hard or wiping out.
• Flexible yet rigid arm: The arm should be stiff enough to keep the camera steady but flexible enough to absorb shocks from wipeouts or hard landings.
• Quick-release camera plate: Lets you pop your camera on and off in seconds without fiddling with screws.

I once tried a cheap knockoff mount that had a flat, hard mouthpiece. After 10 minutes, my jaw ached, and the camera kept slipping. Lesson learned: comfort isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

How It Works in Real Conditions

When you’re out in the surf, the mouth mount does more than just hold your camera. It absorbs vibrations from paddling and wave impact, which helps reduce shaky footage. The camera’s field of view captures your upper body, your board, and the wave in front—giving you a dynamic, immersive shot.

One thing I’ve noticed is that the angle is crucial. If the camera is too low, you’ll only see the wave. Too high, and you’ll miss your face entirely. Most quality mounts let you adjust the angle slightly, so you can fine-tune the framing. I usually set mine at a 10-15 degree upward tilt—perfect for catching my expression and the wave’s lip.

Why Surfers Love Mouth Mounts (And Why You Should Too)

Let’s be honest: no other mounting method gives you this kind of perspective. Chest mounts are great for stability but often miss your face. Helmet mounts can be top-heavy and awkward in the surf. Selfie sticks? They’re a hazard in the water. The mouth mount, on the other hand, is light, secure, and invisible—until you hit record.

Unmatched First-Person Perspective

This is the big one. When you watch a mouth mount video, you’re seeing the wave through the surfer’s eyes. You can see their breath, their smile, their focus. You can hear the water, the wind, the paddle. It’s raw, real, and emotionally charged. I’ve watched videos of pros like Kelly Slater using mouth mounts, and it’s like being right there with him. You can almost feel the spray on your face.

For beginners, it’s a confidence booster. When you watch your first wave from this angle, you see exactly what you’re doing right (and wrong). Did you pop up smoothly? Did you trim the wave correctly? The feedback is instant and invaluable.

Lightweight and Non-Restrictive

Unlike bulky chest harnesses or helmet straps, a mouth mount weighs almost nothing. It doesn’t interfere with your paddling, duck diving, or cutbacks. You can wipe out, get tumbled, and still have the camera securely in place. I’ve had wipeouts where I was underwater for 10 seconds, came up gasping, and the mount was still in my mouth—camera intact.

And because it’s so light, you can wear it for hours without fatigue. I’ve done full 3-hour surf sessions with mine and barely noticed it was there.

Perfect for Sharing Your Stoke

Let’s face it: we all want to share our best waves. Mouth mount footage is shareable gold. It’s dramatic, personal, and instantly engaging. Whether you’re posting on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube, this kind of content grabs attention. I’ve had videos go viral just because of the mouth mount angle. People love seeing the emotion on your face as you ride a wave.

Plus, it’s great for coaching. If you’re working with a surf instructor, they can analyze your form, stance, and timing from your footage. It’s like having a personal coach in your pocket.

Choosing the Right Mouth Mount: Key Features to Look For

Not all mouth mounts are created equal. Some are flimsy, some are uncomfortable, and some just don’t hold the camera securely. Here’s what to look for when choosing the right one for your needs.

Material and Comfort

The mouthpiece should be made of food-grade silicone or rubber—soft enough to be comfortable, but durable enough to last. Avoid hard plastic or cheap rubber. I once tried a mount that left a weird chemical taste in my mouth. Not cool. Look for models that are BPA-free and hypoallergenic.

Comfort is subjective, but here’s a tip: if the mouthpiece feels awkward when you’re just standing on the beach, it’ll be unbearable in the water. Try biting down for a few minutes before buying. Does it make your jaw sore? Does it slip when you talk? If so, move on.

Camera Compatibility

Most mounts are designed for GoPro-style cameras (Hero, MAX, etc.) or DJI Osmo Action. Make sure your mount is compatible with your specific model. Some have universal screw mounts; others are brand-specific. I use a GoPro Hero 12, and I prefer mounts with a quick-release plate so I can swap cameras fast.

Also, check the weight limit. If you’re using a heavier camera (like a GoPro with a media mod), make sure the mount can handle it. I once had a mount snap because my camera was too heavy—lesson learned.

Durability and Water Resistance

You’re going to be in saltwater, sand, and sun. Your mount needs to handle it. Look for UV-resistant materials and corrosion-proof hardware (like stainless steel screws). The arm should be flexible but strong—able to bend without breaking.

One thing I love about my current mount is that it’s fully submersible. I’ve had it in the water for hours, and it still looks brand new. Some cheaper models start to degrade after a few sessions.

Adjustability and Framing

Can you adjust the camera angle? Can you change the height? A good mount should let you tweak the position for the perfect shot. I’ve seen mounts with ball joints, swivels, or sliding arms. The more adjustability, the better.

Pro tip: if you’re using a wide-angle lens (like most action cams), you can get creative with framing. Try a slightly lower angle to emphasize the wave, or a higher one to show your face more. Experiment!

How to Use a Mouth Mount: Tips for Epic Footage

Having a great mouth mount is one thing. Using it well is another. Here’s how to get the best possible footage—without sacrificing your surfing.

Pre-Surf Prep

Before you paddle out, do a quick check:

• Secure the camera: Make sure it’s locked in place. Give it a gentle tug. If it moves, tighten the screw or quick-release.
• Set the angle: Adjust the camera to your preferred framing. I like to test it in the shallows—paddle a bit, take a wave, and see how it looks.
• Check the battery and SD card: There’s nothing worse than running out of juice mid-session. Bring spares.

Also, lubricate the mouthpiece if it’s new. A little spit or water helps it slide in smoothly. Don’t use oil or lotion—it can make the rubber slippery.

Paddling and Positioning

When you’re paddling, keep your head up. The camera is right in front of your face, so if you’re looking down at your board, you’ll miss the wave. Keep your eyes on the horizon—and your jaw relaxed.

I’ve noticed that breathing through your nose helps stabilize the mount. If you’re panting through your mouth, the camera can vibrate. Try to stay calm and focused.

Taking the Wave

When you catch a wave, let your body do the work. Don’t tense up. The camera will capture your natural movements. If you’re doing a cutback or snap, keep your head steady. The mount will absorb most of the motion.

One trick I use: start recording a few seconds before the wave. That way, you don’t miss the pop-up. I’ve missed countless perfect rides because I pressed record too late.

Wipeouts and Recovery

Wipeouts happen. The good news? The mouth mount is designed to survive them. If you go down, don’t panic. The camera will stay in place, and the footage will be wild. I’ve got a few wipeout clips that are now my favorites—pure, unfiltered chaos.

When you come up, spit out the mount and check the camera. Is it still recording? Is the lens clear? If not, wipe it quickly and get back in the water.

Top Mouth Mount Models Compared

Here’s a quick comparison of some of the most popular mouth mounts on the market. I’ve tested all of these personally, so this isn’t just specs—it’s real-world feedback.

Model	Price	Material	Compatibility	Weight	Best For
GoPro Surf Mouth Mount (Official)	$49.99	Food-grade silicone	GoPro Hero 9-12, MAX	68g	Beginners, all-around use
DJI Osmo Action Mouth Mount	$44.99	Silicone + polycarbonate	DJI Osmo Action 3/4	72g	DJI users, compact setups
ProShot Mouth Mount (3rd Gen)	$69.99	Medical-grade silicone	Universal (with adapter)	65g	Advanced users, pros
Kollea Surf Mouth Mount	$39.99	Rubber + aluminum	GoPro, DJI, Insta360	75g	Budget-friendly, versatile
AquaTech Elite Mouth Mount	$89.99	Silicone + carbon fiber	GoPro, DJI	60g	Durability, long sessions

My take: The GoPro official mount is great for beginners—it’s reliable and easy to use. But if you want the best, the ProShot 3rd Gen is worth the extra cost. It’s the most comfortable, the most adjustable, and the most durable. The AquaTech Elite is a close second, but it’s pricier. For budget buyers, the Kollea is a solid choice—just don’t expect it to last forever.

Final Thoughts: Is the Mouth Mount Right for You?

Look, the action camera surf mouth mount isn’t for everyone. If you’re just starting out, it might feel weird to bite down on something for an hour. If you have jaw issues, it might not be comfortable. And if you’re not into sharing your face online, well… maybe stick to a chest mount.

But if you want the most immersive, emotional, and shareable surf footage possible, this is it. It’s not just a tool—it’s a way to relive your best waves, connect with other surfers, and improve your skills. I’ve used mine for everything: coaching, vlogging, even making a short film about my local break.

The best part? It’s affordable, lightweight, and easy to use. You don’t need to be a pro to get epic shots. Just bite down, paddle out, and ride. The camera will do the rest.

So, if you’re ready to take your surf videos to the next level, give the mouth mount a try. It might just change the way you see the ocean—and yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an action camera surf mouth mount and how does it work?

An action camera surf mouth mount is a hands-free accessory that lets you capture POV footage while surfing by securely holding your camera in your mouth. It uses lightweight, buoyant materials and a flexible neck to keep the lens stable while you ride waves. This setup is ideal for surfers who want immersive, first-person shots of their rides.

Is a surf mouth mount safe for action cameras like GoPro?

Yes, high-quality action camera surf mouth mounts are designed with secure clamps and shock-absorbing materials to protect your camera from drops or impacts. Always ensure the mount is properly locked before use, and choose models with buoyant designs to prevent loss in the water.

Can I use an action camera surf mouth mount for other water sports?

Absolutely! While designed for surfing, these mounts work great for bodyboarding, kite surfing, or kayaking. The mouth-held design keeps your hands free while capturing dynamic footage in any water-based adventure.

How do I prevent fogging on my action camera when using a mouth mount?

To avoid lens fogging, use an anti-fog insert or spray inside your camera housing before hitting the water. The natural breath from your mouth can contribute to condensation, so a quick pre-ride treatment ensures crystal-clear shots.

What features should I look for in a surf mouth mount for my action camera?

Prioritize buoyant materials, adjustable angles, and a secure camera clamp. Look for mounts with quick-release mechanisms and compatibility with your camera model (e.g., GoPro, DJI) to ensure a snug fit and easy adjustments mid-session.

How do I clean and maintain my action camera surf mouth mount?

Rinse the mount with fresh water after every use to remove salt or sand, and let it air dry. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can degrade the mouthpiece material. Store it in a cool, dry place to extend its lifespan.