What Equipment Do I Need To Start Surfing?

If you enjoy being on the water and are keen on surfing, certain surf equipment or gear is needed before you get into the water. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, having the right equipment will ensure that you surf the waves in complete safety.

Being one of the most popular water sports in the world, people of all ages are interested in learning because it even improves their daily skills. If you’re planning on surfing soon, here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your first surf vacation.

Among the many surf exercises and techniques to improve your surfing, surf skating is a great activity on land that helps you become a better surfer. Check out the Ombe surfskate review and find the right board for your specific type of surf training.

Keep in mind that you don’t have to buy all the surf gear right away or you could end up breaking the bank. But in the beginning, a few essentials 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 go swimming. You will always want to buy the best looking surfboard, but buying the right board for your surfing abilities is the most essential thing.

As a beginner, it is important to choose a board suitable for the wave you are surfing on, as it will help you learn the sport faster. The right choice will also give you more stability, grip and allow you to stay longer on the board without falling or slipping. For example, a long board is recommended for new surfers as they are great for learning to surf.

Combination

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, a wetsuit will allow you to surf longer and perform better on the waves. Most people prefer to surf with shorts or swimwear in dry seasons, but when winter comes it can get harsh and uncomfortable as the temperature drops.

A wetsuit is designed to keep you warm and protect you from the scorching sun. Wetsuits differ according to their thickness as they protect surfers from different types of climates. Choosing a combination that looks good on you will also ensure that you move freely without any restrictions. So be sure to add it as an essential to your surf gear list.

Surf wax

Balance, coordination and flexibility are essential for learning to surf. Even if you are training on a longboard while out on the water, the board can get quite slippery. Spreading a specific surf wax or paraffin wax on your board will give you enough grip to stay on it.

The wax should be applied to the areas where you will put your foot to make sure you distribute it well. A surf wax is inexpensive but important surfing equipment that helps you catch your waves without being wiped out.

Leash

A surf leash is a must have surf kit that creates a bridge between a surfboard and yourself. This is an important surfing tool because it guarantees you won’t lose your board and could save your life as well. There is a general rule of surfing 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 get it back. And it will also protect other surfers around you as the board will not drift in their surfing path. Choosing a comfortable, reliable and tangle-free leash will allow you to surf better without any restrictions.

Surfboard blanket

If you live far from the beach, in the city, or want to travel across the country surfing the waves, a surfboard cover can protect your board. These covers are often padded which means they protect your board from any kind of damage. It is not a necessity for all surfers, but it can be very useful if you are traveling from afar.

Carrying a long board can be quite difficult as it may not fit in your car easily, so the cover can protect your board from cracks, scratches, or bumps. Today you will find a variety of covers for surfboards on the market, available in different designs and padding. Although they are a bit pricey, if you want to keep your board safe this can be a great addition.

Final thoughts

These are just a few of the necessary surfing equipment that will ensure you have a safe and well protected surfing experience. However, depending on your surfing ability and wave size, you will need to adjust your gear for the wave, weather, and tide.

When you surf, you spend hours in the water and in the sun, which can cause sunburn. Find some of the most effective sun protection solutions here!

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