Save The Wave - A Corvette Tradition

What is "The Wave"?

Ever since the first two Corvettes passed each other on the road, a grand tradition was born: the Corvette Wave. It's an unwritten rule, a mutual salute between drivers who share a passion for America's sports car. But lately, this legendary custom has been wavering a bit. So let's clear it up right now: When you pass another Corvette, you wave!

There is one piece of "standard equipment" that may come as a surprise to every new Corvette owner. It's the instant wave of recognition you get the very first time you pass another Vette on the road. If you aren't expecting it, that first wave might catch you off guard.

Soon enough, though, you'll find yourself actively looking out for other Vettes. This is the experimental phase where you'll try out different styles, running the gamut from the over-enthusiastic full-hand wave to the ultra-cool two-finger flip off the steering wheel. You'll perfect your technique, ensuring you don't wave so early that it looks desperate, or so late that the other driver doesn't see it. Eventually you may get so used to waving at other Corvettes that you'll wave to one even while driving your family SUV, forgetting you're not in a Corvette.

One of the trickiest situations for any waver is the side-by-side encounter. Passing each other in opposite directions is easy: You flash a wave, and you're done. But what happens when you pull up next to a fellow owner at a red light, exchange a friendly nod, and then get caught at the next red light just a block later? Do you wave again, give a bashful nod, or smile self-consciously? Sometimes some of life's greatest questions simply don't have answers.

Occasionally, newcomers to the Corvette community might hesitate to wave. Maybe they're borrowing the Vette for the weekend and aren't sure of the etiquette, or maybe they're a brand-new owner still trying to figure out all the buttons on the dash. If someone looks a little shy or caught off guard, they get a free pass. We've all been there.

Anyone ignoring the wave is missing the point and letting a brilliant tradition fade, one that started over 70 years ago. Whether you're driving a classic C1 or a brand-new mid-engine C8, we are all part of the same club. Let's keep the heritage alive. SAVE THE WAVE! 👋

Wave "Rules"

by Dan Woomer

The Corvette Wave is an integral part of the mystique and culture of the Corvette owner experience. Corvette owners who wave at fellow Corvette owners when they pass on the road, show a mark of recognition that you are among the elite group of intelligent people who are driving America's True Sports Car. And as a member of this elite group, you should be recognized for your poise and intelligence. So for those who don't know the five simple Corvette Wave rules, here they are:

1. There is no excuse for not waving at your fellow Corvette owner. Although most Corvette owners have the class and understanding to accept when their wave is not returned, not waving is a serious breach of proper Corvette etiquette.
2. Whoever sees the other Corvette first, starts the wave. There isn't any rule about who waves first. This is simple; if you see another Corvette, wave!
3. Rules 1 and 2 apply to both sexes. As far as who starts the wave, it doesn't make a difference if you are a man or woman. Rules 1 and 2 apply.
4. Any type of wave is okay. Whether you shoot a big wave up through your open Vette top, out the window, or a quick salute with your hand on the steering wheel, any wave that can be seen by the other Corvette driver is okay. However, this does not include any style of jester that can be interpreted as obscene or insulting. Remember, Corvette owners are a class act; while someone might have been rude or stupid to you, try not to return the favor. (This is a tough rule not to break with all the stupid drivers who manage to get a driver's license.)
5. A late wave is better than no wave. If you suddenly realize that a Corvette driver is passing and waving at you, get a wave off as soon as possible. The other Corvette driver may see your wave in their rear view mirror and realize that you where just a little late in getting your wave going. Although missing the timing of your wave is a "goof," getting off a wave that the other Corvette driver has a chance to see can acceptably cover this slip-up.

So you can see the underlying concept here is simple: Wave at your fellow Corvette owners, whoever they are, whenever you see them. This will show you are a person who understands the full measure and etiquette that comes with your proud ownership of a Corvette.