Whether you’re just starting out or really getting into the hobby, you’ll need surfing equipment and supplies. Here’s how to choose and pay for quality items.
According to statistics, there are over 2.8 million surfers in the United States alone. Chances are that you or someone you know is learning to ride the waves. Before you do, however, you need to know where to find the best surfing equipment and supplies!
The surf and skate industry has now reached a whopping $6 billion in skating and surfing essentials as of last year. In the sport of surfing, you can either make due very cheap, or very expensive, depending on if you invest in the best surf gear or not.
The problem is, with so many options when it comes to boards, gadgets, safety gear, quality sun protection, and surf trip essentials, how do you know where to start?
Check out this gnarley guide that will teach you how to choose and pay for the right surfing equipment and supplies.
Let’s get started, shall we?
First and Foremost, the Board
When it comes to choosing your surfboard, there are so many factors to keep in mind. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced in the sport, the right board will either make or break your surfing experience.
The only problem is, there is not one particular board that is best for all levels, waves, fitness levels, and conditions. Most expert surfers have at least 4 or 5 boards. Nonetheless, we will go over the basics to help you find out the best board to buy.
Wave Type
If you are planning on hitting the small waves, or just starting out, opt for a longboard as it is much easier to keep balanced on. As the waves get bigger, switch it up for for a fish or stubby style board.
The easiest way to remember is the bigger the wave, the smaller the board you will need.
Skill Level
The best beginner boards are 7-8 feet in length, 3 inches thick, and about 22 inches wide. Another thing you would want as a beginner is a soft top as if there is less of an impact if it lands on your head, as well as it is easier to stand upon. Softops are also more buoyant and much easier to balance on.
The more experience you get, the sooner you should switch to a fiberglass board, you will thank yourself, trust us.
Fitness Level and Body Composition
If your fitness level is low, you may want to opt for a wider, more floatable board. The less your board floats does mean the more you will have to paddle. Paddling can get exhausting, so be honest with yourself where your fitness level is at-for your own safety!
The biggest advice we can give you about boards is to not cheap out! Save your money, or consider no credit loans to invest in a good quality board.
Don’t Lose Your Board-Get a Leash
The last event you want to experience is a nasty tumble, then lose your board. This is not only expensive but very dangerous. Invest in a good quality tangle-free surfboard leash to save you the constant hassle of fixing your leash.
What Is Surfing Without Filming Yourself in Action?
The GoPro Hero 7 Black is, by far, the best action camera that you can take with you surfing. After all, the GoPro is what the surfing pros use! There are so many incredible perks about this camera:
- Waterproof up to 33 ft (10 meters)
- Hypersmooth video stabilization
- Better voice activation
- Incredible audio
- Superior image quality
- Live streaming (your friends can watch while you surf)
- Surfboard attachments
- Incredible “timewarp” time lapse
After all, what is surfing without bragging about it in a video to your friends?
Surfboard Carrier
There is nothing worse than having sore arms before you even get into the water, and that is exactly what will happen without a handy surfboard carrier. There are many options and styles to choose from such as the Board Buddy handle, or the surfboard sling.
Zinc Sunscreen
Do you ever watch videos of surfers and notice they all have a funny, white, painted face? That is zinc, and it could possibly save your life from the scorching sun. When you are out on the ocean, the sun’s rays reflect off the water and can make it more risk of developing a nasty burn or even worse-skin cancer.
Put some zinc on those exposed areas and you will thank yourself later, trust us.
A Good Quality Wetsuit
Although the water may feel warm at first, you will get cold being on the water all day. Make sure you try on the wetsuit and keep in mind that the harder it is to put on, the better it fits! There are many different levels of wetsuits, so go into your local surf shop and start shopping!
Roof Rack For Transport
Now that you have the board and all the gear, how are you going to transport it to the beach? That is where the roof racks come in, a handy device that can turn any sized car into a surf mobile!
There are many different styles to choose from, from blow-up racks to a permanent installation, it just depends on your price range and usability.
Now That You Have the Best Surfing Equipment and Supplies, It’s Time to Go Surfing!
Now that you have the best surfing equipment and supplies that any surfer can dream of, you need to hit those waves, dude!
Check out our surf map to discover all the best spots around. Also, subscribe to our newsletter where we tell you all the latest news in the surfing world!
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