So, you’ve got your surfboard—awesome! But before you hit the waves, there are a few other essentials that’ll make your surf sessions safer and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need:
Leash (Leg Rope) – Keeps Your Board Close
A leash is a must-have for every surfer. It’s that cord attached to your back foot (right foot if you’re regular, left foot if you’re goofy) that keeps your board from drifting away when you wipe out. Without it, you’d have to swim after your board every time you fall—definitely not fun! Plus, a leash helps prevent your board from flying into other surfers, making the lineup safer for everyone.
Leashes come in different lengths and thicknesses:
- Longboards → 9-10 feet long, thicker (8mm+), for more durability.
- Shortboards → 6-7 feet long, regular thickness (6-7mm).
- Performance/Competition Surfing → Thinner leashes for less drag.
- Big Waves → Thicker leashes to handle heavy wipeouts.
Wax – No More Slipping Off Your Board
Surf wax is applied to the deck of your board (where you stand) to give you grip—because trust me, a wax-free board is slippery as ice!
There are different types of wax depending on the water temperature:
- Warm Water Wax → Harder, ideal for warm Indonesian waters.
- Cold Water Wax → Softer and stickier for frigid surf spots.
Pro Tip: Keep your board out of direct sunlight for too long, or your wax will melt into a sticky mess. Also, try to keep sand off your wax—it’s a pain to clean!
Traction Pad (Optional) – Extra Grip for Your Back Foot
A traction pad (or tail pad) is a foam pad that sticks usually to the tail of your board, giving your back foot better grip—especially useful for shortboards. It also helps with turns and maneuvers. If you’re a beginner, it’s not a must-have, but it can be a nice upgrade!
Rash Guard (Optional) – Protection from Sun & Rashes
A rash guard is like a lightweight wetsuit top that protects your skin from sunburn and board rash. If you’re surfing for hours under the tropical sun, this can be a lifesaver. Plus, it keeps your chest from getting scraped up when paddling.
Sunscreen (Optional, But Highly Recommended!)
The sun’s rays don’t just hit you from above—they reflect off the water, making sunburns even worse. A good sunscreen (SPF 50+) is essential to protect your skin, especially your face.
For hardcore surfers, surf zinc is a great alternative. It’s a thicker, water-resistant sunscreen designed to stay on even after hours in the ocean. You’ve probably seen pros rocking those white or colorful streaks on their face—that’s surf zinc!
That’s it! With this gear, you’re all set for an epic surf session. Now grab your board and hit the waves! 🌊🤙