Picking A Good Surfboard Leash

By Paul Smith


When you are out surfing it is important to have all the right equipment. Losing track of your board can really diminish the enjoyment of the sport. Everyone who surfs knows the benefits of having a surfboard leash. The boards usually come with the attachment and are designed to easily snap on or tie on. When you fall off the board, and you will, the length and type of cord is what will help make it easy to retrieve and keep it from gliding into the path of another surfer.

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.

Some come with a swivel. This isn't something that people think about a lot but it makes a big difference. Without the swivel the cord can get twisted up and causes it to shorten. This makes it more difficult to move around on the board as needed.

Cotton and hemp cords break more easily. Usually, you want to get the polyurethane cord because it is durable and flexible. When you come off the board and jerk your leg to pull it back to you, you don't want the cord to snap. Part of the process also includes getting the right thickness. Newer surfers are encouraged to get the thicker cords. Competition surfers often opt for the thinner ones that produce less drag. They're not as strong but with the experience, they usually know how hard they can jerk to get the board back without breaking it.

Rail savers protect the cord. These are made from thick fabric and provides the protection of the end of the cord so the board doesn't wear through. The saver can cause drag, so again this will require some use and preference when making the choice.

The type of board you are determines how long it should be. Longer boards mean you need more cord. This is why the surfers often wear the cuff on their calf. The shorter boards don't need as long of a cord. If it is too long it drags in the water or can allow the board to drift into the path of another surfer causing potential injuries.

When you are competing you want as little drag as possible. Professionals are always concerned about this since drag affects both speed and performance. New surfers don't need to worry about this as much as just staying on the board.

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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