Surfing essentials every surfer needs
When it comes to surf kit and accessories, there are a few essentials every surfer needs alongside their favourite surfboard and wetsuit. Let’s take a look at a few favourite items that we always take along when heading out to the waves.
On the water
Hood, gloves and boots
If you’re surfing during the colder months, hoods, gloves and boots are essential if you want more time on the water. We really recommend the Dakine range of wetsuit accessories. Made from their unique limestone-based, eco-minded neoprene, the Dakine wetsuit hood is flexible, durable and can be adjusted to fit with an integrated chin strap and tension cord. And it comes with Dakine’s unique hexo-therm lining to keep your head and ears warm in the coldest of UK waters. Add gloves for maximum grip and protection for cold hands, plus wetsuit boots for great warmth and to prevent board slip.
Shop here for hoods, gloves and boots
Surfboard Leash
No-one wants to lose a board on the water. Not only is a rogue board a danger to other surfers, having to swim after a board after a wipe-out or two uses up your valuable energy. Length-wise, buy a leash that’s 6 inches / 15 cm longer than your board. And buy the best quality you can afford so it lasts for several seasons without stretching.
Smartwatch
Track your time out on the water with a water-resistant smart watch. Great for a wide range of sporting activities, for surfers there’s a fantastic range of surf specific apps which allow you to check the forecast, get data on tide times and wave heights, water temperatures and wind speeds. Keep track of your wave counts and speeds, and measure your heart and oxygen levels. And with integrated GPS, you’ll always be in touch with your exact location.
View our collection of Garmin smartwatches
Getting to the water
Surfboard bag and socks
Protect your board with a surfboard bag. Ideal if you’re travelling with your board on a roof rack or in flight, a padded bag can save your boards from damage such as compression and unwanted knocks and scratches. With detachable shoulder straps you’ll find carrying your board to and from the beach much easier too. On the beach, slip a surfboard sock over your board. It’ll spare it from sun damage and accidental sandy scuffs and dings. They’re also great for stopping board wax and sand infiltrating your padded bag or the inside of your van or car.
Surfboard roof pads and straps
Transporting your board by car or van is made much easier with surfboard-specific roof pads and tie-down straps. Not only does using the roof give you space inside your vehicle, it’ll save sand, wax and saltwater damage to the interior. Simple to attach and easy to remove, roof pads are an efficient and inexpensive way of moving your boards from A to B. Our heavy-duty straps come in a variety of lengths and fasten with buckles so your boards will stay securely in place atop your roof. Combine use with padded travel bags to prevent compression marks.
Prepping your board
Wax, combs and wax removers
Surfboard wax is a simple and effective way to prevent slippage on your board. Use it on the areas where your feet go, and along the rails to give extra grip for hands. If you start to lose traction, use a wax comb to rough up the surface and add extra grip. A wax remover will make the job of removing accumulated wax much easier. Wax comes in different forms for cold and warm waters so remember to choose the right one for the conditions.
Traction pads
If spending time waxing your board gets you down, then you might want to opt for a tail traction pad (sometimes also known as grip pads). Great for shorter boards, they help you easily locate the tail end of your stick and ensure maximum comfort, grip and placement for turns and stability, and make duck dives that bit easier. Made from biodegradable EVA foam, kick pads attach to your board with a simple adhesive and are easy to remove.
Looking for more accessories?
For more inspiration and our extensive range of surfer’s accessories, from changing robes, hats and caps, travel accessories, fins and seat covers, visit our website.