Just like in any other sport, having the right gear is essential before hitting your first waves. This blog will help you understand the essential surf gear for beginner surfers like you and how to choose the right items for your needs!
The surfboard is undoubtedly the most crucial piece of surf gear because there’s no such surf without it! For beginners, a soft-top surfboard is the best choice. These boards are covered in soft foam, making them safer, more forgiving and more durable. They also offer more buoyancy, making paddling, keeping your balance and catching waves easier. When you join our Learn to Surf program, you’ll also use a soft-top board. As you improve your surfing, you can swap your board for an easy-rider, a smaller, harder board.
Three key factors to consider when choosing a surfboard when you start surfing:
A surf leash is attached to your ankle and to your surfboard, preventing it from floating or flying away when you wipe out. It’s a safety essential and helps you catch more waves. Most beginner surfers will use a standard ankle leash, when you improve your surfing you can use different versions of a leash, thinner or shorter.
While most (soft-top) boards standard come with fins, it’s essential to understand their role when you’re surfing. Fins provide stability and direction on the water. For beginners, the standard thruster setup (three fins) is ideal. When you become more skilled, you can change the fin setup to different ones: single fin, twin fin, or a quad setup.
A wetsuit is essential for most surfing conditions, especially in colder waters. It keeps you warm and protects your skin from rashes and sunburn. For beginners, a full-length wetsuit is often the best choice. However, depending on the water temperature, you might consider a shorty or a thin rash guard. Here in Bali, you won’t need a wetsuit but make sure you use strong swimwear or a rash guard that won’t go anywhere when you have a wipeout.
Two factors to consider when choosing a wetsuit:
Thickness: The thickness of the wetsuit depends on the water temperature. Thicker wetsuits are for colder waters, while thinner ones or rashguards are suitable for warmer conditions.
Fit: A well-fitting swim- or wetsuit is crucial for comfort and performance. Make sure it’s not too tight or too loose.
Protecting your skin from the sun’s rays is crucial when you’re in the water and on the beach. Opt for a waterproof and sustainable sunscreen with a high SPF rating, ideally broad-spectrum, to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply before jumping in the water, but avoid applying to your upper legs and belly, as this can make your board slippery.
Consider zinc based sunscreens for added protection, for sensitive areas like your face, nose, and ears. Remember, no sunscreen offers complete protection, so combine it with other sun safety measures like wearing a rash guard, and a surf hat.
While not strictly necessary when you start your surfing journey, some additional gear you might need later in your surfing experience:
If you’re just starting out your surf adventure, renting a surfboard and other gear can be a good option to test different boards before making an investment. Most surf spots around the world offer renting options, and if you’re joining the Surf School In Bali, surf board rental is included!
If you’re committed to surfing from the start, buying your own equipment can save you money in the long run. It allows you to customise your setup and you can always resell your board again!
The best way to learn to surf is by getting in the water and having fun! So start with the basic essentials, and as you progress, you can gradually add more gear to your surf fleet.
Ready to ride the waves? Pack your surf gear, book your surf lesson today and start your surfing journey!
