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Surf Gear
Wetsuits, surfboards, and more.
Plus check out our Blog for articles such as How to Wax Your Surfboard!
Wetsuit
When considering a wetsuit for surfing in Southern California, it's crucial to be well-prepared for the region's varying water temperatures throughout the year. To help you make an informed choice, here are some helpful tips:
1. Familiarize Yourself with Seasonal Changes: Southern California's waters exhibit significant temperature variations, so it's vital to plan your wetsuit choice according to the season. The spring, summer, and fall months run from April to October, while winter spans from November to March.
​2. Optimal Thickness Selection:
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2/2mm: Spring, Summer, and Fall (April - October): During these months, when water temperatures rise to above 65 Fahrenheit, many surfers will wear a spring suit around the 2/2mm range like this suit here or even just wear a swimsuit to prevent overheating!
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3/2mm: Spring, Summer, and Fall (April - October): During these months, when water temperatures typically range around 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, many surfers will wear the standard 3/2mm wetsuit like this suit here.
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4/3mm: Winter (November - March): When the water temperatures drop below 65 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly between 58-60 degrees, many surfers opt for a 4/3mm wetsuit. This thicker wetsuit offers enhanced insulation, keeping you warm and comfortable in colder conditions. Click here to see a good example!
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NOTE: Wetsuit sizes are quite different than what many people are used to. We highly recommend trying a particular brand on in person as various wetsuit brands fit a bit differently from each other!
3. Quality and Fit Assessment: Regardless of the season, ensure that your wetsuit boasts high-quality materials and fits snugly. A well-fitted wetsuit minimizes water ingress, ensuring both warmth and flexibility in the water.
4. Additional Features Consideration: Some wetsuits come equipped with features such as chest zips, back zips, taped seams, and thermal linings. These can augment comfort and warmth, particularly during extended surf sessions.
5. Accessorize Appropriately: Don't overlook the importance of complementary accessories like booties, gloves, and a hood, especially during the winter months. These accessories help retain warmth and protect your extremities in the frigid ocean.
6. Proper Maintenance and Care: After each surf session, thoroughly rinse your wetsuit with fresh water to remove salt and debris. Hang it in a shaded, well-ventilated area for drying, avoiding direct sunlight. Regularly inspect and mend any tears or damage to prolong your wetsuit's lifespan.
Board
Selecting the right surfboard as a beginner is a pivotal step in your journey to riding the waves. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed choice:
1. Try Before You Buy: ​Before making any purchase, it's highly advisable to try out different surfboards to get a feel for what suits you best. Seek out board rental shops in your area or reach out to the surfing community on platforms like our Community Slack to inquire if someone would be willing to let you test their board. This hands-on experience will give you valuable insights into what type and size of surfboard works for you.
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2. Consider Foamie Boards for Beginners: As a novice surfer, we highly recommend starting with a foamie board, also known as a soft-top surfboard. Check out a few examples here or click the images below. These boards are excellent for beginners due to their buoyancy, stability, and forgiving nature. Foamie boards are designed to make the learning process smoother by offering ample stability, which is crucial when you're mastering balance and wave-catching techniques.
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3. Size and Shape: When choosing a foamie board, consider its size and shape. A longer, wider foamie board provides more stability and is easier to paddle, making it ideal for beginners. Aim for a length between 7 to 9 feet for greater stability and ease of catching waves. Look for a board with a rounded nose and a wide tail, as this design offers more stability and ease when turning. These characteristics help you catch plenty of waves in the white water and get accustomed to the rhythm of the ocean.
4. Soft Top vs. Hard Top: Soft-top foamie boards are preferred for beginners because they are less likely to cause injury in case of accidental contact. These boards are soft and forgiving, reducing the risk of getting hurt in the surf.
5. Safety First: As a beginner, prioritize safety by wearing the appropriate surfing gear, including a leash to prevent the board from drifting away from you. Additionally, make sure you're familiar with basic surf etiquette and safety rules to protect yourself and others in the water.
6. Progression and Transition: While foamie boards are fantastic for beginners, keep in mind that as you gain experience and confidence, you may eventually want to transition to a hard-top board. The choice of your next board will depend on your evolving skills and surfing style.
Surf Poncho
Everyone's worst enemy is sand. Grab this towel to dry off and get the sand off all your supplies before heading back into your car. We couldn't recommend purchasing a changing poncho enough, this will save your life at the beach either resting during a chilly morning or helping you change in the parking lot! Check out this option on Amazon.
And what else?
Booties, gloves, hoods, roof racks, and more. The list goes on for what every beginner surfer needs! Check back for more updates to our Resources Page and check our Blog for weekly articles helping surfers just like you.
Disclosure: We only endorse things we've personally used or come highly recommended by trusted peers. If you grab anything we mention using our referral links, know there is no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Surfista Co. LLC earns from qualifying purchases.