The Gear You Will Need To Start Surfing

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surfer starting out

Surfing Waves is littered with articles about the surfing equipment you'll need, not just to get started but to progress further with your surfing. Here's an brief overview of the equipment you'll need as a complete beginner to surfing, and links to further in-depth articles to help you make the right choice when starting out. Here's where you find out whether surfing's expensive or not.

Surfing is a lot of fun, but you might be surprised at the amount of gear you will need to start surfing. You may have done it before and hired some gear before paddling out for the first time, but choosing the right equipment is important. Just because it looks the best, doesn't mean it is the best and will perform how you want it to in the water. From flicking through a rail of wetsuits to finding the ideal surfboard, here's what gear you'll need to get you up and running.

The Big Surfboard Rule

As a beginner, you should aim to buy a big surfboard, longboards are best for your first purchase. At this stage, the bigger your board is the better. Beginners should aim to use an 8' board if not one over 9'6. Foam or soft top surfboards are great for a surfing lesson or an irregular surfer but not ideal for long term progression. Foam boards ensure you catch the waves at ease and prevent you from getting hurt if and when you fall off which is why you tend to see them in use in surf schools. When buying a new surfboard, you should check the surface for any imperfections on the board and talk to shop staff to make sure you get the best board for you. A second hand surfboard is also a sensible choice when starting out, save some money - you might not even like surfing (unlikely we know).

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Board Bag

Now you're the owner of a shiny new surfboard (or cheap second hand beater board even), you want to keep it in the best condition possible. A board bag helps protect your board out of the water, such as when it is in storage or being moved to the beach. It's important to take good care of your surfboard, but no matter how careful you may be you will end up damaging it one way or another. Since professional repairs can be costly, consider some Solarez ding repair for the a quick and easy fix.

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Wetsuit

Skip this one if you're fortunate enough to surf in warm water (boos from the warm water surfers), if not, wetsuits are essential to increase your time in the water. When buying a wetsuit, it's vital to do your research. Buying the wrong wetsuit may prevent you from enjoying your experience out in the water. Comfort and warmth are the first factors to consider, you should have a rough idea of the average temperature of the water where you will be surfing. A good fit is essential, an ill fitting wetsuit will not keep you warm!

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Rash Vest & Board Shorts

Although not a requirement, you may want to invest in a rash vest and board shorts if you find your wetsuit begins to rub around the neck area and cause irritation or begin to seam when used for a long period of time. Board shorts help to create an extra lay of insulation to keep you warmer for longer. If you're surfing in warmer water, you'll need both. Consider a rash vest for sun protection.

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Since your wetsuit won't protect your hands and feet from the cold it is essential to buy a wetsuit hood, gloves and wetsuit boots if you plan on cold water surfing or surfing during the winter. This extra protection will help you stay in the water for longer without losing feeling in your hands and feet, and the hood is worth the prevention of the dreaded "icecream headache".

Surfboard Leash

Surfboard leashes are used to prevent the surfboard from being washed away if the rider and board are separated at any point during the surf. Made of pilant and mildly elastic urethane cord, surfboard leashes are designed to withstand even the strongest of wipe outs. Ideally get one with a swivel and make sure the leash is at least as long as your board, preferably longer.

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Surf Wax or Traction Pad

Surfboard wax, otherwise known as surf wax is applied to the deck of a surfboard to prevent the surfer slipping off the board when padding out or riding any size wave. To wax your surfboard, you ideally need a basecoat wax applied directly to the clean deck of the board (the bit that you stand on). You'll then need an application of topcoat wax, which should be applied every time you go our for a surf. The board should be waxed wherever you intend your feet to be.

A traction pad is a permanent pad placed on the deck of the surfboard. The pad provides grip when wet, and is a replacement for surf wax - you don't need to wax the pad. Some surfers prefer just the tail pad, others prefer a full deck kit, it's a matter of personal choice.

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Now you know what you need to surf like a pro, it's time to hit the waves! No matter what your reasons for starting, surfing is a water sport that can be loved by everyone. Best start reading our surf lessons!

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