Surfing Gear Guide for Beginners
What do I need; what should I have?
Learning how to surf is difficult, almost as difficult as choosing the right gear as a beginner. New surfers often walk into the shop with many questions, especially about various products and accessories with significant brand recognition. “Do you have Channel Islands boards?” “How important are traction pads?” “Do I need to wear a rash guard under my wetsuit?” And, most common, “What surf equipment is most essential?” We’ve put this article together to set the record straight. Behold, our breakdown of the most crucial surfing gear for beginner surfers, ranked from important to indulgent.
Must Haves
- Surfboard (I don’t think we have to explain this.)
- Surf Leash (Necessary, unless you’re a confident longboarder or reckless beginner.)
- Wetsuit/boardshorts (Help prevent hypothermia, rashes, and or public nudity.)
- Surf Fins (Need ’em unless you’re down with skimboarding.)
- Wax (Use it or slip off your board)
Should Haves
- Surfboard Bag (Protects your shred stick from dry land dings.)
- Surf Ear Plugs (Stave off surfers ear.)
- Surf Booties (Essential if surfing in the cold or above the reef.)
- Rack Pads (Will help get your board to the beach on top of the Prius.)
- Reef Safe Sunscreen (Prevents sun damage to the skin.)
- Ding Repair Kit (For when your board needs some lovin’.)
- Wetsuit Cleaner (For when your wetsuit needs a little lovin’.)
Nice to Haves
- Traction Pad (Get a grip whether or nor you’re throwing airs.)
- Changing Pancho (Avoid flashing all the beach-goers.)
- Fin Hardware (Extra screws and fins keys are always handy.)
- Catch Surf Soft Top (Can take a beating and won’t give you one when you wipeout.)
- Surf Watches (Tell time and track your rides.)
- Surf Lessons (A little instruction can go a long way.)
- Surf Camera (For your Instagram game.)
- Surf Guide Book (A must when planning the surf trip of your dreams.)
Ready to grab some gear and start your journey as a surfer? Discover all your beginner surfing needs here! Did we miss any surfing essentials? Let us know in the comments!