Surfing is growing in popularity, and for a good reason. It’s an exciting, exhilarating sport that many wish they had started when they were young. With the popularity of surfing comes more and more information about the sport and its equipment. However, it can be challenging to sift through all of the miscellaneous surfing merchandise available on the web to find the “essentials” you need as a surfer. There are some things you should own as a surfer that will make your experience much better. But before getting into the items, you should understand what makes surfing such an enjoyable activity.
What Makes Surfing So Enjoyable?
Surfing is a sport that has been practiced for centuries, and it is not just a hobby but also an art form. Many people enjoy surfing because it gives them a sense of freedom. Surfing is a sport that requires balance, agility, and endurance but if you know the right surfing tricks and moves, it can become super enjoyable. The surfing industry has boomed over the last decade, with more people wanting to surf than ever before. Surfing is one of the most popular water sports in the world because it offers something for everyone, from beginners to professionals; there are waves for all levels of surfing skill sets. You choice of wakeboard will also depend on what lever of surfer you are. Nevertheless, there are some timeless things that make surfing such an enjoyable activity, including:
- It is an experience like no other: You will have never experienced anything quite like surfing. Nothing compares to the thrill of catching your first wave or the satisfaction of taming the ocean.
- You will feel the adrenaline pumping: If you are not an adrenaline junkie, then it might not appeal to you. However, if you enjoy feeling your heart pumping from fear, you will enjoy this sport.
- It can be a humbling experience: Your very first wipeout will show you the true power of the sea, and you will never be the same again.
- It is just you and the oceans battling it out together: It is just you, your board from Hydrus BoardTech, and whatever the water can throw at you. You will feel satisfyingly alone and develop a connection to the power of the sea.
- Anyone can start: Surfing is a surprisingly accessible sport, and as long as you can buy a board and some of the things mentioned in this post, anyone can start.
- You get to hang out at the beach: Beach bums rejoice as you will have to spend an inordinate amount of time at the beach if you want to get surfing!
Four Essenatilitems Every Surfer Must Own
Now that your appetite has been sufficiently whetted and you want to give surfing a go, what are some of the more essential items you need? The following already assumes that you have a board and instead will cover some other things that are either essential or will make your life easier.
Wetsuit
A wetsuit is a neoprene suit worn by surfers to keep them warm in cold water. However, a secondary reason is that the suit prevents the surfer from getting any cuts or scrapes. Wetsuits are often used for surfing because it is a sport that involves being in the water for extended periods of time. When you are looking for a wetsuit to keep you warm in cold waters, there are several things that you need to look out for. For example, you will need one that fits you correctly but also has some style. Some of the primary things to consider include:
- Fit: You will need a suit that fits your body correctly. If it is too small, it will be highly uncomfortable, but too big, it could cause serious chafing issues.
- Style: Depending on where you plan to do most of your surfing, you might opt for a full-length version or one with short legs and sleeves.
- Quality: The best way to ensure quality is to look at the stitching. Lower-quality suites will utilize an overlock style of stitching which will be uncomfortable for long periods. For quality, you should look for blind lock stitching, which is secure and robust.
- Budget: You really should buy a suit towards the higher end of your budget if you want comfort and longevity.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is necessary for surfing because it protects your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. This will not only keep you looking and feeling good but also help prevent skin cancer. Sunscreen is a must-have for any surfer, no matter your skin type or the water temperature. There have been many instances of surfers returning from a session on the waves without adequately protecting themselves from the sun’s rays and ending up turning red as a lobster. You aren’t surfing to get a tan but to protect yourself, so you should opt for a high SPF and one that is waterproof (although you should regularly reapply every time you leave the water).
Travel bag
A travel bag is not necessarily a critical item, but anyone who has surfed for any amount of time will tell you that it will make your life easier. These bags encompass your board and keep it safe from the outside elements. Moreover, better bags usually contain areas to store items you might need during your day, like spare clothing and wax for your board. However, these bags not only protect your board but also make it easier to transport. By including handles, you can easily transport your board from your car to the beach and back again with relative ease.
Changing Mat
The final item on the list is also not entirely required, but something that you will be happy you bought! Change mats are circular pieces of fabric that you can open to provide a clean area to change. It keeps water, sand, and other debris from getting inside your car or home after you take off your wetsuit and makes the entire experience far more comfortable.
So there you have four necessary and useful items to purchase if you want to make your surfing experience the best it can be. Arguably the most important item will be a wetsuit. It will keep you warm and enable you to stay in the water for a more extended period than if you were not wearing it.