Surfing is an exciting and rewarding sport, but it can also be intimidating for beginners. One of the first steps to making your surfing experience enjoyable and safe is knowing what to wear. The right clothing and gear will not only make you more comfortable, but also ensure you stay safe in the water. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about what to wear the first time surfing, from wetsuits to accessories.
The Importance of the Right Surfwear
Before we dive into specific clothing, it’s important to understand why wearing the right gear is crucial for your first surfing session. Surfing requires a lot of paddling, balance, and movement, and the water can be colder than expected. Wearing the wrong gear can lead to discomfort, coldness, or even injury.
Wearing the right surfwear helps you:
- Stay warm in cool or cold water.
- Protect your skin from the sun and abrasions.
- Ensure your safety in the water.
- Feel more confident while surfing.
Wetsuit: A Must-Have for Beginners
A wetsuit is one of the most important pieces of gear for any beginner surfer. It keeps you warm, especially in colder water, and provides some protection from the sun, jellyfish stings, and abrasions from the board.
Why You Need a Wetsuit
Temperature regulation: When you’re in the water, your body can lose heat quickly. A wetsuit insulates your body, trapping a thin layer of water between your skin and the suit. Your body heats this layer, helping to keep you warm.
Protection from the elements: Wetsuits also protect you from the sun. With all the time spent paddling and lying on your board, you can get sunburned. A wetsuit offers full-body coverage to prevent this. Additionally, some wetsuits are designed with UV protection to block harmful rays.
Comfort and flexibility: The best wetsuits are designed to allow you to move freely. You’ll need flexibility in your shoulders and legs to paddle and pop up on the board.
Choosing the Right Wetsuit
When choosing a wetsuit, you’ll want to pay attention to the following factors:
Thickness: Wetsuits come in different thicknesses, typically measured in millimeters (mm). The thicker the wetsuit, the warmer it will be. For beginners, a 3/2mm wetsuit is a good choice for water temperatures ranging from 60°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C). For colder water, consider a 4/3mm or 5/4mm wetsuit.
Fit: The wetsuit should be snug but not tight. A well-fitting wetsuit keeps the water layer trapped, helping you stay warm. You should avoid excess space, as it will cause water to flow through the suit, reducing its insulation properties.
Material: Wetsuits are made from neoprene, which is both flexible and durable. Some wetsuits are made from eco-friendly neoprene, which is a great option for environmentally conscious surfers.
Rash Guard: Comfort and Sun Protection
A rash guard is a lightweight, tight-fitting shirt made from a stretchy material like Lycra or polyester. It’s designed to protect your skin from the sun, abrasions, and irritation caused by rubbing against the surfboard. While a wetsuit offers full-body coverage, a rash guard provides added protection for your torso and arms.
Why You Need a Rash Guard
Protection from the sun: A rash guard provides additional sun protection, especially if you’re surfing for extended periods. It helps prevent sunburns, particularly on your back, chest, and arms. Many rash guards have built-in UV protection.
Comfort on your board: Surfboards can be abrasive, and constantly lying on the board can cause rashes or chafing. A rash guard creates a barrier between your skin and the board, making paddling and surfing more comfortable.
Added warmth: While not as warm as a wetsuit, a rash guard can provide some insulation, especially in warmer waters.
Choosing the Right Rash Guard
Fit: Rash guards should fit tightly, like a second skin. Loose clothing can create drag in the water, making it harder to paddle and move on the board.
Material: Look for a rash guard made from quick-drying and breathable material. It should feel comfortable even when wet.
Sun protection: Many rash guards come with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, which indicates how effective the material is at blocking UV rays. Aim for a rash guard with at least a UPF 50+ rating for maximum protection.
Board Shorts or Surf Leggings: Bottom Wear Options
When it comes to the bottom half of your surfing outfit, you have a couple of options. Depending on the weather, water temperature, and your personal comfort, you can wear board shorts or surf leggings.
Board Shorts
Board shorts are a popular option for warmer waters. They are designed to be quick-drying and provide freedom of movement while paddling and surfing.
Fit: Board shorts should fit snugly around the waist but be loose in the legs to allow for freedom of movement. They are typically made from lightweight, stretchy material that dries quickly.
Length: Most board shorts come in a range of lengths, from just above the knee to mid-thigh. Choose a length that is comfortable and doesn’t restrict movement.
Material: Board shorts are usually made from polyester or nylon, which are both lightweight and quick-drying materials.
Surf Leggings
For colder water or if you prefer more coverage, surf leggings can be a great alternative to board shorts. They are made from the same material as wetsuits and are designed to keep you warm while surfing.
Fit: Like wetsuits, surf leggings should fit snugly and cover your legs completely. They can be worn alone or paired with a rash guard or wetsuit.
Comfort: Surf leggings are ideal if you’re looking for full-body coverage without the bulk of a wetsuit. They provide flexibility and comfort while paddling.
Surf Boots, Gloves, and Hoods: Extras for Cold Water
If you’re surfing in colder waters, you may need to add accessories like surf boots, gloves, and hoods to your outfit. These extras help keep you warm and protect you from the cold.
Surf Boots
Surf boots are designed to keep your feet warm while you’re in the water. They are made from neoprene and come in different thicknesses.
Fit: Surf boots should fit snugly, like a wetsuit, to keep the water layer trapped inside. They should also be comfortable enough to allow you to walk and paddle easily.
Protection: In addition to warmth, surf boots protect your feet from sharp rocks, coral, or other underwater hazards.
Surf Gloves and Hoods
For extremely cold water, you might consider wearing surf gloves and a hood. These accessories keep your hands and head warm, which is important when you’re out for long periods in chilly water.
Gloves: Surf gloves are made from neoprene and come in full-finger or split-finger styles. They help protect your hands from the cold while giving you enough grip to hold your board.
Hoods: A neoprene hood helps keep your head warm and protects your ears from cold water. It’s a good choice for cold-water surfing, particularly in winter.
Choosing the Right Surf Gear for Your First Session
When selecting surf gear for your first time, keep these tips in mind:
Check the water temperature: Make sure you’re dressing appropriately for the water temperature. If the water is warm, you can get away with a rash guard and board shorts. For colder water, you’ll need a wetsuit and possibly boots, gloves, and a hood.
Consider the weather: Surf in the morning or evening when the sun is not as intense. If you’re surfing during peak hours, make sure your gear offers adequate sun protection.
Don’t forget sunscreen: Even if you’re wearing a wetsuit or rash guard, sunscreen is still necessary for exposed areas like your face, neck, and hands. Choose a water-resistant, reef-safe sunscreen for best results.
Conclusion
Surfing for the first time is an unforgettable experience, and wearing the right gear can make all the difference in how much you enjoy it. Whether you’re surfing in warm or cold waters, the right wetsuit, rash guard, and accessories will help you stay comfortable, protected, and confident as you take on the waves. Be sure to check the water temperature and weather conditions to choose the best outfit for your surf session. With the proper gear, you’ll be able to focus on learning and having fun on your surfboard!
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