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Surfing Gear Guide

Catch the best waves with the right equipment

Gear by Experience Level
Foam Longboard (8–10 ft)
Soft-top boards are forgiving and fast to learn on.
More volume = more paddle power and easier pop-ups.
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Wetsuit (3/2mm)
Full-length suit for most destinations.
Stay warm, surf longer — hypothermia kills sessions fast.
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Surf Leash
9–10 ft coiled leash matched to board length.
Keeps your board close after wipeouts.
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Surf Wax
Temperature-matched wax for your destination.
Grip is everything — wrong temperature wax slips off fast.
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Rash Guard
UPF 50+ long-sleeve top.
Sun protection on multi-hour sessions.
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Shortboard (6–7 ft)
Step up to a performance board once you can consistently ride green waves.
Unlocks turns, snaps, and better positioning.
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Wetsuit Boots & Gloves
For cold-water destinations (under 55°F).
Cold extremities end sessions prematurely.
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Board Bag (Travel)
Padded bag for airline travel with multiple boards.
Airlines and baggage handlers are not gentle.
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Surf Fins (FCS II or Futures)
Interchangeable fin sets to tune your ride.
Different conditions call for different fin setups.
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Step-Up Board
Slightly longer/narrower for larger surf (overhead+).
More drive and control in bigger, faster waves.
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5/4mm Hooded Wetsuit
For cold-water charging (Pacific NW, Ireland, Scotland).
Surf spots like Thurso East require serious thermal protection.
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Surf Helmet
Impact-rated helmet for reef and big-wave spots.
Reef breaks like Pipeline demand head protection.
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Inflatable Vest (Big Wave)
CO₂-triggered inflation vest for big-wave sessions.
Survivability at XXL swells like Mavericks or Jaws.
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Packing List
✓ Must Have
  • Board + leash
  • Wetsuit (temp-matched)
  • Surf wax
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+
  • Rash guard
  • Fins + fin key
  • Board bag for travel
+ Nice to Have
  • Wetsuit hanger
  • Ear plugs (surfer's ear prevention)
  • Neoprene booties
  • Portable board repair kit
  • Dry bag for valuables
✗ Leave at Home
  • Cotton t-shirts (stays wet)
  • Jeans
  • Heavy sneakers
  • Excess electronics on the beach
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