Maybe you just moved to a coastal town, or perhaps you just watched Momentum Generation
and felt inspired. Whatever it was that brought you to surfing, there are a few things you need to get before you can ride a wave. Before you start surfing, you’ll need to get special equipment and clothing.
The equipment you need for surfing includes a surfboard of several varieties, wax for your boards, a surfboard leash, and surfing earplugs. The clothing you need might include a wetsuit and board shorts.
Keep reading to learn more about each of the equipment pieces listed above and why they’re necessary for surfers. Additionally, I’ll give some tips for what equipment to use in different conditions and even some helpful pointers for beginners.
Equipment Needed for Surfing
You can’t start surfing if you don’t have the right equipment. Walking into the water without any equipment not only won’t be as fun, but it can also be dangerous.
Here are a few things you should pick up before hitting the water.
Surfboard
If you’re going to go surfing, the first thing you need is a surfboard. Surfboards are the long and narrow boards that surfers use to ride the waves.
When it comes to surfboards, there are six main types:
- Longboards: Longboards are usually 8’-12’ (2.44-3.66 m) long and are slightly wider and thicker than other board types. These have a rounded nose that points just a little bit and a tapered tail. Longboards are great for surfers of all levels and are best for small to medium surf.
- Funboards: Funboards are typically between 6’-8’(1.83-2.44 m), making them slightly smaller than a longboard. They’re great for small to medium surf and suitable for surfers working their way down in board size. They are better for more experienced surfers.
- Shortboards: Shortboards are usually less than 7’ (2.13 m) long, have a pointed nose and a tapered tail. These are for speed and agility, which makes them great for tricks and experienced surfers.
- Fish boards: Fish boards are typically under 7’ (2.13 m) and are flatter than other boards. They have a distinct v-notch at their tail, resembling the tail of a fish. These are great for smaller surf with flatter waves.
- Egg boards: Egg boards are 6.5’-8’(1.98-2.44 m) long, have a rounded nose, a tapered tail, and are oval. These are the classic beginner boards because they’re very stable and great for smaller surf.
- Hybrid boards: Hybrid boards are boards that combine characteristics from the classic board types above. Their qualities will determine the conditions and level of experience for which they’re best suited.
Surfboard Wax
Surfboard wax has been helping surfers “stick” to their boards for over 85 years. This wax will give you the traction you need to stay on your board and help keep you from slipping off. I highly recommend that you pick up some surfboard wax if you plan to take up the sport.
There are different kinds of wax depending on the conditions you are surfing in. Surfers use hard wax in warmer waters and soft wax in colder waters.
If you want to know how to apply wax to your board, watch this YouTube video from Stoked Yogi:
Surfboard Leash
Even though a waxed board will help keep you from slipping, falling off your board is inevitable.
And when you fall off your board, you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing your board leash.
Surfboard leashes attach to your board and wrap around your ankle. Their purpose is to stop your board from getting too far away from you while in the water.
When choosing a surfboard leash, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
- Length: Leashes come in sizes that range from 5’-12’ (1.52-3.66 m). It’s typically best for beginners to work with shorter leashes.
- Thickness: Leashes also vary in thickness. The thicker leashes withstand harsher conditions better than thinner ones.
- Comfort: Before purchasing a leash, you’ll want to ensure the ankle strap fits appropriately and is comfortable against the skin.
- Features: Surfers can have different features on their leashes, such as detachable buttons and key pockets. If you’re looking to buy a new surfboard leash, you may want to look at the extra features and see if any of them are right for you.
Ear Plugs
Earplugs are an essential piece of equipment that’s easy for beginners to overlook. However, the best way to protect your ear from wind and water is to wear earplugs. Surfers are at high risk for ear infections, surfer’s ear, and ear pressure issues. If left unprotected, your ears are more susceptible to damage, infection, and even hearing loss.
Here are a few earplugs from Amazon.com to check out:
- Creatures of Leisure Ear Plugs: These 4.5-star earplugs will fit comfortably, keep the water out of your ears, and come with a case, so they are travel-ready.
- Docs Proplugs: These 4.5-star earplugs will keep your ears safe and come with their own leash.
Clothing Needed for Surfing
Once you have all of the equipment you need, you’re almost ready to get in the water. But first, you have to figure out what to wear. What you wear depends on the weather and water conditions in which you’ll be surfing.
Here are a few clothing items to consider.
Board Shorts
Board shorts are the iconic surfer outfit, which were specifically made for surfers. Board shorts have the following features which make them ideal attire for the sport:
- Long length: Board shorts are longer than typical swim trunks, which provides the legs protection when paddling out.
- Tight waistband: Having secure shorts is a plus when getting thrown around in the water. Board shorts typically have Velcro and a drawstring to ensure they stay on.
- No mesh lining: Mesh lining can be constrictive. Board shorts don’t have this lining, so it’s easier for surfers to move around.
- Unisex: These shorts are the right length for anybody and can be worn over a typical swimsuit.
Board shorts are a great option for sunny weather and warm waters. Because your legs are exposed, and water can get under the shorts, these aren’t ideal for colder waters.
Wetsuit
Wetsuits are tight, rubber suits that surfers wear to stay warm in colder waters. Body heat warms the water trapped between the suit and the skin, helping insulate the surfer and retain body heat.
Wetsuits can come in a few different styles:
- Full body wetsuit
- Leg coverings
- Torso wetsuit
- Hoods
- Jackets
- Vests
If you plan to surf in colder waters, you’ll definitely want to invest in a wetsuit. This will ensure your body stays warm, which will help you avoid hypothermia and allow you to navigate the water better.
Final Thoughts
Before running to the beach, you’ll want to make sure you have the proper equipment to take up surfing. Here is a recap of what you’ll need:
- A Surfboard
- Surfboard wax
- Surfboard leash
- Earplugs
- Board shorts
- Wetsuit
