The Products You Need to Start Surfing

You will need a surfboard to stand up and ride the wave. It is safest to start on a soft foam surfboard because if you fall and it hits you in the head, it won’t hurt as bad as boards made out of epoxy resin or polyurethane. To maintain a steady balance, a soft foam surfboard between 8 feet to 9 feet 6 inches will give you the most stability and paddle power.

Wetsuits are a surfer’s best bet for staying warm while surfing. The ocean water temperature here on the Central Coast is frigid, with a springtime average of 54 degrees Fahrenheit. The wetsuit consists of foam neoprene that keeps you insulated while wet.

A surfboard leash connects you to the surfboard. If you fall off the wave and have your leash on, your board won’t go to shore. The leash wraps around your foot and connects to the surfboard’s tail. The length of your leash correlates with the size of your board, and the leash is typically a tad bit longer by a few inches.

A surf backpack is a great way to carry your surf gear to the beach. My surf backpack is water-resistant, which is great for when your suit is dripping wet after a surf. The bag keeps the water contained and protects your car from the wetsuit smell. In a separate compartment of your surf backpack, it’s good to have some sunscreen, surf wax, water, and a snack.