Surfing is an exhilarating sport that offers an incredible adrenaline rush and a sense of freedom and adventure. If you’re a beginner surfer, it’s important to use the right gear to ensure you have a positive experience and stay safe in the water. In this article, we’ll explore the essential gear you need to get started with surfing. If you are looking for the beginner surfgear, then you are in the right place!
Choose the Right Surfboard
Your surfboard is your most important piece of gear as a surfer, so it’s essential to choose the right one. As a beginner, you’ll want to choose a surfboard that’s wide, thick, and long. These features will give you more stability and make it easier for you to catch waves.
There are several types of surfboards suitable for beginners. Longboards are one of the most popular types, as they’re wide and thick and offer plenty of stability. Funboards are another good option for beginners, as they’re shorter than longboards but still offer plenty of stability. Foam boards are also popular among beginners, as they’re lightweight and easy to handle.
When choosing a surfboard, there are a few factors you should consider. The first is the size of the board. As a general rule of thumb, your surfboard should be at least one foot taller than you. You should also consider the shape of the board, as different shapes are suited for different types of waves. Finally, you’ll want to choose a board made from durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of the ocean.
Beginner Surfgear: Get the Right Wetsuit
A wetsuit is an essential piece of gear for any surfer, as it keeps you warm in the water and protects you from the elements. As a beginner, it’s important to choose a wetsuit that fits well and provides enough insulation for the water temperature.
Wetsuits are made from neoprene, a synthetic rubber that insulates your body and traps a thin layer of water between your skin and the suit. This layer of water is warmed by your body heat and helps to keep you warm.
When choosing a wetsuit, it’s important to consider the water temperature you’ll be surfing in. Wetsuits come in different thicknesses, with thicker suits providing more insulation. A 3/2 wetsuit is a good choice for beginners who will be surfing in water temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’ll be surfing in colder water, you’ll want to choose a thicker wetsuit.
It’s also important to choose a wetsuit that fits well. A wetsuit that’s too loose can let cold water in and defeat the purpose of wearing a wetsuit in the first place. A wetsuit that’s too tight can restrict your movement and make it difficult to paddle and catch waves.
Beginner Surfgear: Use a Surfboard Leash
A surfboard leash is a cord that attaches to your ankle and your surfboard, keeping you connected to your board in the water. This is important for two reasons: first, it ensures you won’t lose your board if you fall off; and second, it keeps your board from becoming a hazard to other surfers in the water.
When choosing a surfboard leash, you’ll want to consider the length and thickness of the cord. Longer cords give you more freedom of movement, while thicker cords are more durable. You should also choose a leash that’s suitable for the size of your surfboard. A longer surfboard requires a longer leash.
Attaching the leash to your surfboard is easy. Simply loop the cord through the plug on the tail of your surfboard and secure it with the Velcro strap. Make sure the leash is snug but not too tight, as you’ll need to be able to move your ankle freely.
Wear Surfing Booties
Surfing booties are another essential piece of gear for beginners. They protect your feet from rocks, coral, and other sharp objects in the water, and they also provide extra traction on your board.
When choosing surfing booties, you’ll want to consider the thickness of the material, the fit, and the durability. Thicker booties provide more insulation and protection, while a good fit is essential to ensure they stay on your feet in the water. Look for booties made from durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of the ocean.
Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen
Spending hours in the sun and water can take a toll on your skin, so it’s important to protect yourself with sunscreen. Look for a sunscreen with a high SPF and broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Apply sunscreen liberally before you head out into the water, and reapply every two hours or more frequently if you’re in and out of the water frequently. Don’t forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that contains SPF.
Practice Good Surfing Etiquette
Finally, it’s important to practice good surfing etiquette when you’re in the water. This means being respectful of other surfers and sharing the waves. Don’t drop in on other surfers, which means paddling into a wave that someone else is already riding. Wait your turn and be patient.
When you’re paddling out to the lineup, make sure you stay out of the way of other surfers who are riding waves. Don’t paddle directly in front of someone who’s riding a wave, as this can be dangerous.
If you’re not sure about the rules of surfing etiquette, don’t be afraid to ask other surfers or a local surf shop for guidance. Remember, surfing is a community, and everyone benefits from good manners and respect for others in the water.
Beginner Surfgear – Conclusion
Getting started with surfing is an exciting adventure, but it’s important to have the right gear to ensure you have a positive experience and stay safe in the water. By choosing the right surfboard, wetsuit, leash, booties, and sunscreen, and practising good surfing etiquette, you’ll be on your way to becoming a skilled and respectful surfer in no time.
Remember, surfing is a unique and thrilling sport that offers endless opportunities for growth and exploration. With the right gear and attitude, you’ll be able to enjoy all that surfing has to offer and make lifelong memories in the ocean. We hope our beginner surfgear article helped you to find the basic things you will need.
