Surfing is a healthy pastime, but it is considered an extreme sport. For this reason, you have to make sure that you are adequately prepared and have all the needed gear and equipment for it. Some people like to take it slow and let the waves carry them, which is great for newbies in this field.
However, some people greatly enjoy taking their surfing spree to the next level. Such people find themselves in more extreme situations like being at the wave’s crest where they have to balance everything right.
If you’re a newbie in surfing or a surfing enthusiast that wants to get a better acquaintance with what to consider before going surfing – we have the correct list of tips for you. Make sure you follow it to a T so that you don’t encounter any unexpected problems along the way.
Also, we’ll list a set of benefits that surfing comes with so that you can finally decide to try out an extreme sport if you haven’t done it yet. Additionally, there will be a list of the essential pieces of equipment for surfing to help you get better prepared.
A list of must-have surfing equipment
Let’s be honest; surfing is an extreme sport. Unlike some other water sports, surfing requires a set of equipment items for you to be safe out there on the waves. Other than that, it requires willpower to try out exciting stuff. You can also check Elevated Adventurer for kitesurfing activity.
Must-haves for surfing are a wetsuit, wax, leash, fins, and, naturally, a surfboard. As you get more advanced and experienced in the whole surfing world, you’ll need some other items as well. For example, you’ll need a bag to protect your stick and surf and paddleboard rack mounts.
Ear and skin protection are considered essential if you take up surfing regularly and are exposed to water and sun more often. You can also get a surf watch that can give you information about the height of waves and forecast the data variables.
Boots, hoods, and gloves are optional equipment and are needed only in the wither. If you’re surfing in the winter, though, they become a must-have because they protect you from low temperatures. If you get all of these covered, you can rest assured that your surfing spree will be safe.
List of 8 things to consider before going surfing
1. Muscle aches are possible
Beginners in surfing are more likely to feel muscle aches after their first try because they’re not used to it. Your arms may feel jello-like, and your hips may feel sore. Also, rashes on the skin of your stomach are possible from lying on the surfboard.
2. Missing a wave will happen often
If you’re taking up surfing for the first time, it’s normal not to catch the first wave that comes in your direction. Luckily, you can hire an instructor until you get more accustomed to the whole idea. Remember that practice makes perfect, and making mistakes is okay.
3. Investing in a good surfboard is essential.
Choosing a more advanced and expensive surfboard is something both beginners and experts should pursue. More comprehensive and longer boards are better for maintaining balance and maneuvering. Beginners should opt for them, while more experienced surfers have other options too.
4. Waxing the board is essential.
The surface of your board gets wet by salty water and makes it hard to navigate because it becomes slippery. Applying wax to the surface of your surfboard can reduce that and build a layer that acts as a slippery repellent. Waxing should be done every two months.
5. You’ll spend a lot of time in the water.
Yes, you have a surfboard and should ride on the waves with it, but expect a great deal of time in the water as well. If your surfing spree is three hours long, you will probably spend half of that time in the water.
6. Equipment is everything
Don’t hesitate to invest some money in a good wetsuit, a good board, leash, wax, fins, boots, gloves, and hoods. The last three will come in handy only in the winter as they are there to protect you from extreme temperatures.
7. You have to be a good swimmer before taking up surfing
As we’ve already mentioned, you’ll spend half of your time in the water. Even if you master steering the surfboard, you are likely to fall into the water from time to time. Therefore, make sure you master swimming before you take up surfing.
8. Temperature determines everything
If the temperature of the water is low, you have to get a good wetsuit. Otherwise, you may harm your health. More experienced surfers have nothing against surfing in the middle of winter. However, such conditions require additional equipment, which we’ll list below.
The benefits of surfing
The five health benefits of surfing are:
- It reduces stress.
- It reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- It improves the flexibility of your body.
- It’s great for your shoulders, back, and chest.
- It provides you with self-gratification.
What is the most important thing in surfing?
One of the most essential components of surfing is that you get your board; you depend on it for speed, stability, and dependability in addition to helping you catch waves. For 95% of riders, learning on a shortboard is not recommended. A fun board is typically the greatest choice for a novice.
Conclusion
Though an extreme sport, surfing is something anyone can try out. Don’t give up if you don’t make it on your first try. Surfing requires persistence and patience, like most other extreme sports. As we’ve listed all that you need to take it up – now might be the perfect timing to do so. Knowing what to pay attention to, having the right equipment, and motivation will make surfing your favorite pastime.
If you liked reading about the guidelines for surfing, check out our other blog content for more in-depth and informative material on ThriveVerge.
