How To Choose Suitable Surfboard Leash For You

By Ryan Young


Count the days and summer will be here. Many have started to swim by the beach and surf on its waters. When it comes to surfing, many experts will recommend that surfers, especially beginners, will only go further down the sea if they can handle the swim. Anything beyond that is prohibited since it can compromise your safety. Surfboard leash is one safety device they require you to have.

Like any devices, leashes are composed of parts. Cords, rail savers, cuffs, and swivels are the parts these have. A standard process has been passed for the creation of cuffs to ensure its Velcro has been wrapped twice for additional strength and security. Key pockets are embedded on the paddings and sewn there so you can have the option to place keys and small objects that are important.

Next are swivels which are not generally included in some leashes. It is important though since it allows spinning and twirling on the leash without any outside help. Tangles are prevented as well so you will not trip on your feet. However, having this on your purchased leash is still a decision you will make.

A cord differs from another in length and in type. You will decide how long this is going to be. Its composition is of polyurethane wherein thermosetting polymers prevent melting due to heat exposure from happening. Its types can range from thin cords to thick ones. People prefer the latter due to the durability and strength it provides. The downside is that it drags when exposed to water causing it to become heavy.

Rail savers are the device which connects to the surf boards. This is made of fabric yet still is durable enough to prevent strain on the rails and the cords. It would be better if you choose leashes that have larger fabrics since those will protect the rails more in the event that you fall off from the board.

Despite the many professional leashes out there, experts still prefer if surfers, seasoned or beginners, use the regular one. Even though its name type is regular, it can still deliver durability for your safety as well as thicker cords. Reduction of breakage occurrence will happen even if you fall several times.

You also can opt to attach the leash on the ankle or calf. Many prefer the ankles since it does not prevent movement when riding the waves. You can get comfortable on that due to its paddings. You can easily pull the surf board to you as well in the event of crash and fall.

Attaching to calves is best suited when you use standup paddle boarding and longer boards. Getting tangles will be lessened to none while you stand and walk along its surface. Drags are prevented as well since the muscles in the calves are strong enough to pull your leash along the water. It has drawbacks too since you will feel discomfort while pulling the board towards you.

For competitions, you should use competition leash. Unlike the previously mentioned cords, it has thinner ones which prevent dragging. It will not wrap around you and the board fins while on water as you wait for the competition to start. This is best suited when you use a board with a length of seven inches.




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