Have you ever surfed in the sea? Neophytes in the domain of surfing may begin with procuring the basic equipment needed for the sport. Some may at the onset hire the basic equipment as the sport is under trial. The basic equipment required is bought first and other accessories are added as you master the art. The budget is one important factor that delays ownership of all equipment at the onset.
Surfing equipment has different pieces to safeguard the surfer, some are necessary while others are add-ons. Riding a full wave comes with practice and use of equipment. The invigorating pleasure of standing of the board after many trials is trilling and rejuvenating.
1. The surfboard
The board aids in riding the waves. It is tied to the feet. The commencement board should be larger in size and soft such as foam style. It is seven to nine feet in dimension. It is called mini mal. It supports learning. In the market you will find various types of boards. They are constructed keeping in mind:
- Dissimilar wave conditions
- Level of experience of the surfer
If your budget does not permit, then purchase a second-hand board. Surf shop will assist you in selection. Bigger your surf board swifter is the ride, and quicker is the next wave catch. Long boards known as Malls are above nine feet. It is difficult to operate due to its size. Best suited for calm and puny waves. Another board called shortboard they have a snug turning arc with a sharp nose. It is not a very stable board. Abbreviated board is lower than seven feet.
2. The Fins
In other words it is the wheel of the board. They extend:
- Support and balance
- Conduct and attainment
- Ride
The fins are labelled based on their wheels such as single-fin, twin-wheel, quad, thruster as well as five-fin equipment. Fins are attached on the bottom of the board. They are a detachable type. Fin faces the wave competence but board without fin glides out of control on the waves.
As the name suggests it is just a leg-rope which links the surfer with the surfboard. It is tied to the calf or ankle. In case of sea plunge the board will float right next to you and you can be retrieved. Thus, we can also call it a flotation device. It is must-have equipment. It costs very little. Purchase a leash of the length of your surfboard. If you happen to fall you are unlikely to be hit by the board. Leash revolves but the right size one will not entangle in your feet.
4. The surf Wax/Traction Pad
Traction pad requires surfboard wax. It prevents you through accidental slipping. It is rubbed on the upper portion of the board. The texture created around your feet by the wax application gives it stability and grip. Its cost is nominal. The wax is applied on arid board prior to every session. Only a wax comb can remove it. Surf wax must be periodically done. Traction Pads are costly compared to wax and last several years.
5. The wetsuit, steamers, spring suit & sorties
There is variance in wet suits which suit different weather conditions. They are constructed from neoprene in divergent thickness. It reduces evaporation cooling. It can be 1.5 mm, 2mm, 3/2mm, and 4/3 mm up to 6 mm. Surfer can tolerate cold water for a long time in this type of garment and even stays warm. You can surf in winters. The two varieties in a wetsuit are spring suit as well as full suit. Stay within your budget. Steamers or full suit are full length suits with long sleeves where body is totally covered. It comes with a hood as well.
6. Spring suits
It has long sleeves and shortened legs or the opposite. Shorties are clothing with short sleeves and legs. It covers the thigh. Included in this preview are vests as well as trunks.
7. Board shorts and bikinis
This is for warmer climate. Men are likely to go shirtless for surfing. They wear board shorts over swim trunks. The material used is quick dry; it is stitch less and stretchy fabric. It can cause hindrance as with water it becomes a drag. This happens because there is plenty of loose clothing around the upper part of the leg. The material used does not keep water away, but it traps water close to your skin. This water gets warmth from your body and losses its chill. Water makes you feel relaxed.
8. Swim suit/ rash guard
Rash guard counters the irritation and sun ray from skin, which could cause cancer on long exposure. The material used is light in weight, dries rapidly, and keeps UV rays away. Tailor cut for summers surfing comes in short sleeves. This garment is worn below wet-suit, boardshorts to get warmth. For winters the long sleeve garment can be used. For beginners who are likely to fall more often in water ladies should go in for one-piece swimsuit and men in well fitted briefs.
9. Surf Poncho/jacket
This garment is done during winters because it keeps you warm when surfing session concludes and you step out. Wearing this garment is necessary even when you travel by boat to the surfing destination. One another important function of the poncho is that it soaks water keeping the body dry. Surf jacket should be of waterproof material, so you do not wet the car seat after surfing.
10. Dry Suits
.These suits are manufactured by:
- Nylon
- Waterproof polyurethane finish
- Airy Gore-Tex laminate
These suits are highly recommended in cold water surfing. You will note that latex gaskets are fixed at ankles, neck and wrist. The exclusive role-up closure prevents water meeting the surfer’s body. The garment extends insulation and you can wear fleece liner to keep you warm
11. Hoods, boots and gloves
In cold seasons when the water is cold, cover exposed parts of your body. Use hoods for the entire neck and head and only your face will be visible. Compact, comfortable water resistant and flexible aqua gloves will keep your hands warm. You will be able to grip your board well. Another hand protector is called pogies. These are made up of neoprene and nylon material and keep the hands warm. Boots for surfing are so constructed to extend traction on your board.
12. Earplug
Surfers are safeguarded by earplug from a condition called exostosis or surfer’s ear. Small bone grows in the ear. It is painful and can lead to loss of hearing. It happens to the surfer after the age of 30. It is rectified through surgery. The cause is exposure to cold water and winds while surfing. This is optional surfing equipment.
13. Surf watch and surf camera
The watch is highly technical forecasting data about sea and weather. Through the camera you can get pictures as you surf and enjoy them later with your near and dear ones.
As you enjoy small and big waves whether in cold or warm water, your safety is of paramount importance. First how you dress up is very vital. Be mentally prepared for accidents and understand you must survive till help reaches you. Carry the necessary equipment with you. This will be decided by the climatic conditions.
There are several shops in the vicinity of the surfing arena. Just walk in and find out what equipment and preparation you should make before going into the sea. Purchase the items which you don’t own and feel reassured. This advice is a must with the beginners. Optimum stability should be your motto.
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