If you love being on the water and are passionate about surfing, there are certain surfing gear or equipment required before you head into the waters. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, having the right gear will ensure you surf the waves well and safely.
Being one of the most popular water sports in the world, people of all ages are interested in learning as it even improves their daily skills. If you are planning a surf soon, here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your first surfing holiday.
Among the many surfing exercises and techniques to improve your surfing, surf skating is a great activity on land that helps you become a better surfer. Check out Ombe surfskate review and find the right board for your specific type of surf training.
Keep in mind that you don’t need to buy all the surfing gear straightaway, otherwise you may end up breaking the bank. But as you start out, a few essential items will make your learning sessions safer and easier. Read on to find out more.
Surfboard
Well, it goes without saying that you need a surfboard to surf or you might as well as just go swimming. You will always want to purchase the best looking surfboard, but buying a board suited to your surf ability is the most essential thing.
As newbies, it is important to choose a board that is suitable for the wave you are practicing surfing on, as it will help you learn the sport faster. The right choice will also give you more stability, grip and enable you to stay longer on the board without falling or slipping off. For instance a long board is recommended for new surfers, as they are perfect for learning to surf.
Wetsuit
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer a wetsuit will ensure you can surf longer and perform better on the waves. Most people prefer surfing with shorts or swimsuits during the dry seasons, but when winter comes it can get rough and uncomfortable as the temperature drops.
A wetsuit is designed to keep you warm and protect you from the scorching sun. Wetsuits differ based on their thickness as it protects surfers from different kinds of climates. Choosing a wetsuit that fits you well will also ensure that you move freely without any restriction. So make sure that you add this as an essential item to your surfing equipment list.
Surf Wax
Balance, coordination and flexibility is a must when learning how to surf. Even though you may be practicing on a longboard when you’re out on the water, the board can get quite slippery. By spreading a specific surf wax or paraffin wax on your board, it will give you enough grip to stay on it.
The wax needs to be applied to the areas you will set your foot on to make sure that you distribute it well. A surf wax is inexpensive but an important piece of surfing equipment that helps you catch your waves without being wiped out.
Leash
A surf leash is a must have bit of surfing kit that creates a bridge between a surfboard and yourself. It is an important surfing tool, as it ensures you do not lose your board and could also save your life. There is a general surf rule that your leash should be as long as your surfboard or even slightly longer.
The reason is quite simple, as you keep falling off your board, you won’t have to hunt to retrieve it. And it will also protect the other surfers around you as the board won’t drift off into their surfing path. Choosing a leash that is comfortable, reliable and tangle free will ensure that you can surf better without any restriction.
Surfboard Cover
If you live far away from the beach, in the city, or you want to travel across the country surfing waves, a surf board cover can protect your board. These covers are often padded which means it keeps your board safe from any kind of damage. It is not a necessity for all surfers, but it can be quite helpful if you travel from afar.
Transporting a long board can be quite difficult as it may not fit in your car easily so the cover can protect your board from any cracks, scratches or bumps. Today, you will find a variety of surfboard covers on the market that come in different designs and paddings. While they are a bit expensive, if you want to keep your board safe, it can be a great addition.
Final Thoughts
These are just some of the necessary surfing equipment that will ensure you have a safe and well protected surfing experience. However, depending on your surf ability and the size of the wave, you will have to adjust your gear to match the wave, weather and tide.
When you are surfing, you spend hours in the water and in the sun which can lead to sunburn. Find some of the most effective sun protection solutions here!
*collaborative post