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If you’re looking for a safe way to get outside during the pandemic, it might be time you learn how to surf. Socially distant by nature, surfing demands a wide berth in the water, which means you can catch waves worry-free. Even better, surfing opens the door to countless future travel experiences, and thanks to adult surf camps, more people of all ages are gravitating toward the sport.
When I decided to learn how to surf last summer, I was drawn to what I perceived as a minimalist sport. Under the impression that all I needed was a board, a beach, and a willingness to learn, I bought a used surfboard on a whim and signed up for a week of lessons at my local beach. But I quickly discovered there was more to surf gear than I had initially thought. From picking the right board to knowing which type of wetsuit to buy, surf gear can get a little complicated—especially for a newbie like myself.
Thankfully, I was able to glean knowledge from seasoned surfers willing to impart their wisdom, and after many blunders and some successes, I’m able to share all that I’ve learned. Below, you’ll find a complete list of everything a rookie surfer needs to get out and enjoy the swell. Read on to discover my picks for the best beginner surf gear, so you can learn how to catch waves, too.
All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Surfboard
Rookie surfers will want to forego traditional fiberglass boards in favor of a more forgiving soft top. For this reason, a board like the Odysea Log from Catch Surf is beloved by new surfers everywhere. Made of polyethylene foam, the Odysea Log has a buoyancy that beginners will appreciate as they learn to navigate the waves. (I loved practicing on this board at surf camp and found myself wishing I hadn’t been so hasty in buying a lesser-quality surfboard off the Internet.) Start with a longboard—either an 8’ or 9’ is recommended—as the heft of a larger board allows for more speed, making it easier to catch those coveted waves.
Buy now: Odysea Log, $425, catchsurf.com
Surf leash
Learning how to bail from your board is essential for beginner surfers, but you don't want to lose your board in the process—which is why you need a surf leash to keep your board tethered to your ankle as you practice paddling, duck diving, and popping up. As a general rule, the size of your leash should be the same or slightly longer than your board. If you’re surfing on an 8’ longboard, the Kaimana Team 8’ x 1/4” Surf Leash from Dakine is an ideal size. The molded leash is designed to stay tangle-free in the water, while the quarter-inch DuraCord is burly enough to use when you graduate to bigger waves.
Buy now: Kaimana Team 8’X1/4” Surf Leash, $48, dakine.com
Wetsuit
Cold-water wetsuits
I once thought of surfing as a warm-weather sport, but after moving to Maine, I discovered that couldn’t be farther from the truth. From riding winter waves in New Hampshire to surfing in Iceland, cold-water surfing should not be discounted—even for beginners. Depending on the season and location, water temperatures will vary, so it’s best to use a chart to figure out the appropriate wetsuit thickness based on where you want to surf. Vissla makes a men's 4/3 chest-zip suit constructed of limestone neoprene, a material that is sustainable and provides great stretch. For women, a comparable wetsuit is the Artemis 4/3, a stylish geoprene suit from Matuse that doesn’t sacrifice flexibility for warmth, making it easier to peel off at the end of a surf sesh.
Buy now: 7 Seas 4/3 Full Suit, $230, vissla.com
Buy now: Artemis 4/3 Contrast Stitch, $525, matuse.com
Shortie wetsuits
Whether you’re headed to a warm-weather destination or surfing during a New England summer, a shortie wetsuit is ideal for water temps in the high 60s and 70s. During Maine summers, when the water temperature hovers in the 60s, the Reactor II Spring Suit from O’Neill manages to keep me warm even when I’m in the water for hours. Available in styles for both men and women, this spring suit is also affordable ($90) without sacrificing quality or comfort. As an added bonus, shorties are less restrictive than full-length wetsuits, which you will appreciate when you're paddling out to the break.
Buy now: Reactor II 2mm Back Zip S/S Spring Wetsuit, $90, oneill.com
Long-sleeve sun protection
No matter your age, protecting yourself from the sun is crucial. That’s why long sleeve swimwear is favored by people who surf tropical destinations. For women, a long-sleeve swimsuit like the Zenith from Title Nine will provide comfort and stability on the water. (And unlike other long sleeve swimwear, no bikini top is needed underneath.) Men should look for a quick-drying rash guard with UPF, like this long sleeve top from Patagonia. Even if you’re not headed to Bali anytime soon, long sleeve swimwear can be worn under wetsuits for added warmth or used as a dry layer on land.
Buy now: Zenith Long Sleeve One Piece Swimsuit, $129, titlenine.com
Buy now: Patagonia RO Long-Sleeve Top$45.00, rei.com
Season extenders
Since summer is short, it’s likely you’ll want to extend the surf season as much as possible. Investing in a pair of booties and gloves, in addition to a hood, is crucial for surfing year-round, and will keep you toasty on cold, windy, or cloudy days. O’Neill makes a great line of cold-water gear, for all the brave souls who aren’t scared of frigid water temps. Wear these accessories with a thick wetsuit and you’ll stay warm in the water, even on chilly, windy, or cloudy days when the surf is up.
Buy now: O’Neill Psycho Tech 5MM St Boot, $83, oneill.com
Buy now: O’Neill Psycho Tech 5MM Lobster Glove, $65, oneill.com
Buy now: O’Neill Psycho Tech 3MM Hood, $55, backcountry.com
Surf wax
If you hit the beach with an unwaxed board, I promise you'll regret it. Surf wax is an essential item that gives your board grip, so you can balance atop a wave without slipping. Seeing as clean water is essential to the sport of surfing, it’s best to buy a wax that protects our oceans. Made with eco-friendly ingredients and wrapped in recyclable packaging, Rob Machado’s Organic Blend Surf Wax is dedicated to protecting the environment. And since the type of wax you use depends on the temperature of the water, don’t forget to check the surf report for water temps prior to purchasing.
Buy now: Rob Machado Organic Blend, $10, bubblegumsurfwax.com
