It is called Surfer's Ear, because it is common among surfers. As surfers we are frequently exposed to water, wind and (depending on where and when you surf) cold conditions. Yes, also swimmers, triathletes, windsurfers or kiters can get it.
Not to be confused with Swimmer's Ear, or Otitis externa, which is an inflammation of the ear canal. However, having Surfer's Ear make your more likely to catch such an Otitis externa, which often presents with ear pain, swelling of the ear canal, and occasionally decreased hearing.
Answered by M. von Grote, MD and M. Goettinger, MD