Top 5 Accessories Every Surfer Should Have

In comparison to other action sports, surfing doesn’t require a long list of accessories or highly technical maintenance. Still, a few items can really make the difference between having a great time versus a bummer time in the water.

This core group of items will keep you comfortable and having a great time in the waves. While you could save a few bucks and go without them, the difference it makes to bring them is well worth the extra expense. Learning about the top accessories every surfer should have is crucial for making the most of your time in the water!

Wetsuit

At cold ocean temperatures, the need for a wetsuit is obvious: to prevent hypothermia. In cool water between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, a wetsuit can make the difference between being comfortable or uncomfortable. Even in warm, tropical water, a wetsuit offers extra protection for your body.

The padded neoprene layer provides cushioning for your arms, chest, and legs against abrasions and bruising that can occur from paddling and popping up for hours at a time. This may seem like a small advantage, but it can mean the difference between calling it a day after one session or heading back out for a second. For all the time it takes to get loaded up and down to the beach, why not reduce your recovery time and double (or even triple) your time in the water?

When considering which wetsuit to buy, the most important factors are the thickness, coverage (half, 3/4, or full), fit, and zipper location (back, chest, or diagonal). The colder the water, the thicker the wetsuit you will need. Consult manufacturer temperature guides to determine the right thickness for your expected conditions. (Note: wetsuit thicknesses stated in millimeters. For example, a “3/2” wetsuit is 3mm thick in the interior sections and 2mm thick in the arms and legs).

At the coldest temperatures, a full suit is highly recommended. As temperatures rise above 65 degrees Fahrenheit, you may want to consider a 3/4 suit (full legs + half arms). At above 75 degrees, you may want to opt for a half suit (upper body only). You can find sleeved, half-sleeved, or sleeveless options.

When it comes to fit, pick a suit that is tight but not overly tight in the interior sections to lock in heat but provides adequate space in the shoulders for paddling. Lastly, the zipper location plays an important role in how well the suit retains heat and the ease of changing into it. Back zip suits are the easiest to put on, but chest and diagonal zip suits are the warmest. There is no correct answer on the best zipper location; it’s just a matter of personal preference.

Surf Wax

When riding a hard top surfboard, wax is a necessity. Without it, you will find it extremely difficult to stand up and ride the board without falling off! For certain models of soft top surfboards, wax is optional. The decision of whether to use wax or not comes down to your personal style. If you want extra grip to prevent slipping or plan to attempt big maneuvers, you may choose to add a generous layer of wax to get that extra tack and hold.

The great news about soft top surfboards is that no base coat is necessary to apply wax—you just need topcoat. Several brands of wax specially formulated for soft tops are available. The best waxes for soft tops have high thermal resistance to prevent smearing on the deck surface.

Surfboard Leash

A surfboard leash is an essential accessory that every surfer should have. This simple piece of equipment keeps your board attached to your ankle, preventing it from drifting away in the waves. Leashes come in various lengths; we recommend selecting a leash that’s at least as long as your board. Be sure to choose one with stainless steel swivels to prevent tangling in the water, which can create a frustrating experience where you must untangle the leash after every wave. A leash not only saves you the effort of swimming after your board but also protects other surfers from a board gone rogue!

Changing Poncho

Even if you’ve mastered the “towel change” into your boardshorts or wetsuit with a beach towel, why risk the embarrassment of a change gone wrong? Changing Ponchos are a covering, garment, and towel combined into one. They go over your head like a fleece jacket and make it easy to change into and out of your preferred beach attire. Look for one that covers knee height or below, and you’ll never go back to the old beach towel change—we’re confident about that!

Board Sock

If you want to protect your investment in a high-quality soft top surfboard, it’s critical to protect it from the elements with a cover. A good board sock will protect your surfboard from color-fading due to UV exposure, getting sand caked onto the wax layer, and accumulating nicks and dents from rocks or other debris. As with a surfboard, you get what you pay for when it comes to board socks. The best ones have extra padding in the nose area, which can be more sensitive to damage, as well as a proper fit (tight on the sides but sufficient length to cover the whole board). The stretchy material allows you to re-orient the sock if you get it started in the wrong direction when putting it on.

Having these accessories at your disposal helps you make the most of your time in the water. Investing in high-quality gear from a reputable online surfboard shop can make all the difference. Then, you can focus on what truly matters—finding and catching your wave of the day!