Beginners Guide To Surfing: Gear To Buy

Surfing gear and clothing is the focus of this installment of our guide to how to surf.

To go surfing you only need a surfboard, but many surfers find that surfboard wax and a wetsuit are useful to have also.

The average surfboard is about 55 to 60 centimeters wide and about 2.7 meters long. While many kinds of surfboards are available, most are made from polyurethane foam and have a fiberglass coating. Most have one fin on the under side of the board and a leash / strap that you can attach to your ankle.

For those just learning how to surf a wide, thick board that has a gradual oval shape to it with a rounded tip is the best way to go as it offers the best balance and buoyancy for maximum safety. Prior to purchasing a board when learning how to surf, it is wise to borrow or lease several in order to locate one that best suits you.

Where waxing you surfboard isn't really a requirement many surfers find it to be a big help. A surfboard's surface is slippery to start with and will become even more so once it's in the water. It should be rubbed in the areas that your hands and feet will be in contact with.

You might not nee your own wetsuit, since the use of one is determined by your own ability to cope with cold waters and your surfing location. Being continuously exposed to water depletes your body heat more readily when your skin remains wet, even though your body is working very hard while you are surfing.

Particularly in cold waters a wetsuit will keep your warm with a thin layer of moisture between the wetsuit and your skin that remains heated by your body. They stretch easily and are very light. You can find wetsuits to rent at most stores that sell surfing equipment.