7 Essential Pieces of Surfing Equipment for Beginners
November 17, 2022
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If you’ve only just started surfing or are thinking of trying it, chances are you don’t even own a surfboard. And that’s perfectly fine. Most beginners rent or use their friend’s surfing gear at first.
However, if you’d to step up your game and have your very own little surfing equipment, we have some advice.
Obviously, if you’re just starting out, you don’t need to buy all the gear at once. That could seriously break the bank!
While there are certain pieces of equipment and gadgets that can make a surfer’s life easier, there are some essential items that can make or break your surf session.
We’re here to tell you what pieces of surfing equipment you should get if you’re a beginner. Go through our list and decide which items you need right now and which can wait until the next paycheck!
Surfboard… duh!
This is probably the first thing you will need to get if you’re a beginner surfer looking to own your own surf gear, or even your very own quiver.
For beginners, we recommend a larger surfboard that will help you in the water. If you don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on a new surfboard, it’s best to go for a used surfboard. Also, we recommend going to a surf shop to get some advice on choosing the right surfboard for you. Surf shops often have used surfboards for sale too.
» READ MORE: 25 Useful Tips for Beginner Surfers
Wetsuit
Asking how much a wetsuit is, is like asking how much is a boat – the answer will always be: that depends.
So, before going online to check the prices, before getting your hopes up for a good-looking, awesome, and affordable wetsuit, set your budget and make sure you stick to it. Don’t let fancy adverts or cool features influence you. A good wetsuit should do its job, which is to protect you from the elements.
Surf leash
A surf leash is a must-have piece of surfing equipment. It’s pretty inexpensive, but it has the potential to save your life. A good leash should be at least as long as your surfboard, to allow you room to move when you fall off it and avoid getting hit by the board.
Also, swivels are something that you need on your surf leashes (on both sides) because they make it hard for the leash to get tangled around your legs.
» READ MORE: What Will You Learn on a Surf Camp for Beginners?
Surf wax
Unless your surfboard has a traction pad, then you’ll also need some surfboard wax. What does it do? Well, it keeps you from slipping around on your surfboard. It adds texture to your surfboard when you apply it where your feet should be.
It’s really inexpensive, and to be honest, everyone looks good when applying the wax on the surfboard. It’s that classic surfer image that’s just unmistakably cool!
Earplugs
If you plan on surfing in cold water, then earplugs are a must. If you don’t use them, you’re at risk of developing surfer’s ear, a condition where small bones grow in your ear channel. This is often painful and can lead to infection and even loss of hearing. Unfortunately, the only cure is surgery, so do yourself a favor and get a pair of earplugs and use them whenever you’re surfing in cold waters.
A surf travel bag
If you plan to take your surfboard with you when you travel, then a surf bag should be on your wish list.
The only downside to getting a surf bag is that it can be quite expensive. A great alternative would be to buy used surf bags. Search the Internet and you’ll surely find one out there for you and your surfboard.
Sunscreen
You can pretty much have the best time in the world with a surfboard and your wetsuit, but there is one thing you simply need to have on you. And that’s sunscreen!
Skin cancer is no joke and you need to do your best to avoid it. Plus, prolonged exposure to the sun rays without protection also speeds up the appearance of wrinkles, causes skin discoloration, and various other things. Apply generously and reapply every hour, especially if you’ve been in the water.
Are you dreaming of testing your gear in awesome surf destinations? Join a surf camp in the world’s most stunning destinations!