Surfing is a sport that has been around for centuries, but only in recent decades have people started to take it more seriously. It was once considered an elite pastime reserved for those with lots of leisure time on their hands, but now it’s become one of the most popular sports around the world. This is because surfing offers something different than just about any other activity you can think of: exhilarating freedom on waves that are powerful enough to knock over even the strongest swimmers. And while some people may not be able to spend much time at all out in nature due to work or family commitments, they can still enjoy this amazing experience from the comfort of beachfront property.
In truth, you don’t have to be a professional surfer to really enjoy surfing. Even those who want to surf only from time to time should invest in a few key pieces of surfing gear that will allow them to do so as safely and easily as possible. Here is a list of some of the main items that every surfer should own:
1. Surfboard
The first and most important thing for any surfer to invest in is a great surfboard. Not only will it provide you with support as you ride those waves, but it can help reduce the amount of fatigue you feel after spending long periods on the board. Surfboards come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, but the most popular designs are generally called shortboards. These typically measure around six feet long and have a width of about 20 inches. “Shortboards are considered ideal for beginners”, claims an expert from SouthernMan. They are stable and easy to maneuver, making them superior for learning the ins and outs of surfing. On the other hand, longboards are larger and more difficult to control, so they are considered better for advanced surfers. One more thing that you should know when shopping for a surfboard is the nose and tail. The nose and tail are the two front and back “points” of the surfboard. The nose is pretty self-explanatory, it’s basically where your face will be when you’re riding the board. Rounded noses make it easier to get on top of waves while sharp tails allow for sharper turns when riding them. The tail is part of the other end, which helps keep you balanced as you travel up and down the stringer. Keep in mind that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to surfboards, so you should try different models until you find one that feels right for your size and weight.
2. Wetsuit
Surfing in cold waters can be really difficult because the temperature difference between your body and the water is so significant. For this reason, many experienced surfers wear wetsuits to make the activity more enjoyable. Wetsuits are typically made of rubber and serve two main purposes: they keep you dry, while also warming your body. These garments can be bought with either short or long sleeves, depending on which is more comfortable for you. You can even buy some that feature both if you want to really stay warm. While these suits can be a little pricey, it’s not a bad idea to invest in one for your first surfing experience. They come in a variety of colors, but the most common are black and blue. However, you can also find brightly colored wetsuits that make it easier for you to look at them underwater.
3. Surfing Shoes
Surfing shoes are essential if you plan on doing any serious surfing because they make it much easier to grip the board. These footwear items feature hard soles that are designed to help you dig into the surfboard, thus making it easier to balance yourself as you ride. Also worth mentioning is the fact that these shoes are specifically designed for surfing. They are made of rubber, which helps prevent any slipping on wet surfaces outside of the water. On top of this, they are comfortable to wear and easy to take on and off. Surf-specific shoes come with a heel strap that ensures your feet stay firmly planted on the board. They also come in a wide variety of colors, including red, blue, yellow, white, and green.
The best kind of surfing gear for you should be based on your skill level, the environment you will be in, and the type of waves that you are looking to surf. This list offers basic items that you need for surfing. There’s a lot of additional equipment that includes watches, towels, weights, wax, sunglasses, etc. When you decide to go shopping for surfing gear it is important to consider how much money you want to spend. Remember that while good surfing gear is important, the most important thing is that you are having fun!
