Picking A Good Surfboard Leash

By Paul Smith


Going surfing is a great way to exercise and enjoy the summer. Doing so requires that you have the equipment needed including all the little parts that make it safer for everyone. Having a good surfboard leash is essential to this process. They are easy to attach and keep the board close by when you come off at some point. There are several options that you need to choose from in order to have the best experience.

Cuff selection is the first step. You need to decide where you will wear it. Long board surfers often will place it on the calf. This is so they can hold the longer cord up higher while they move back and forth. Since they move more there is a problem with tangling around the feet if it is too low. The shorter boards make it easy to wear on the ankle where it is more comfortable.

Use a swivel to keep it from tangling up. The lack of swivel often causes the cord to tangle and tighten. This will shorten it and make it harder to stay on your board. Once you try one without, you'll quickly see why you need a swivel.

Polyurethane is the main ingredient. Cotton cords shrink in the water and can become brittle in the sun. Using the polyurethane keeps them in good shape and provides some elasticity so they can bounce back and take the jerking motion used to pull them closer. The thickness of the cord also makes a difference. Thicker cords are stronger but create more drag. Thinner cords are not as strong but create less drag. There is a sweet middle level that each surfer needs to pick based on their own style or preference.

Use rail savers to protect the end of the cord. These are a thick fabric that keeps the areas that are rubbing against the board from fraying. Again, the thickness is a factor in performance. If you want less drag, get a thinner material.

The length of the cord depends on what kind of board you're on and how much you move around. If you aren't on a long board, you can use a shorter cord. This keeps the board closer when you come off and prevents other surfers from running into it. The longer cords are needed to move back and forth on the board for long board surfers.

Drag is bad. For those that compete professionally, they notice the drag quickly and will change the cord and savers. The newer the surfer the less this is an issue. Starting out you just want to stay on the board as long as possible. However, competitors want speed and performance and are willing to sacrifice to prevent the drag.

There is nothing more fun at the beach than riding a great wave. Participating in this sport is allowed at all levels of skill. However, you need to make sure that your board and accessories are matched to your skill to keep you and those around you safe.




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