Surf gear: What you’ll need when you finally hit the waves

I’m Anouk Govil and I love the surf. The weekend tides bring me calmness after a rough week at school.

I’ve noticed that there have been a bit more people coming to the beaches here, and I welcome them with a smile. There was this group, a family of four, two parents and their two teens who were fascinated with people surfing. I was surprised when they told me they’ve never tried it before.

They asked what they needed for surfing. I told them that they can either rent gear and take some lessons from a surf instructor, or buy the gear (it’s a pretty good investment) and then go take some lessons from a surf instructor.

Surf gear is pretty straightforward.

First, you have the surfboard. But not just any surfboard. If this is your first time, you’ll need one that’s bigger and a foam board. The foam on a foam board lessens the impact if you get hit. It’s also easier to balance on and paddle.

Next, you need a wetsuit to protect your body and keep you warm.

Then, you need a board leash, just in case you’re knocked off your board. It prevents your board from floating off.

Finally, there’s surf wax (if your board doesn’t have a traction pad. Wax will keep you from sliding around the board.

Do you have any questions about surfing? Be sure to share them with me, Anouk Govil, in the comments section below.

Hey! Anouk Govil here, life sciences student and water sports enthusiast. I currently reside in Ventura, CA, and am attending California State University Channel Islands. In my rare moments of spare time, I can be seen hanging ten at the beach, kayaking, and fishing from sunrise. Come sunset, I belt out the high notes at the local bar during open mic. For more articles like this, visit this page.