Finding The Right Surfboard Leash

By Barbara Butler


Losing your board can be an expensive proposition. Most surfers know the benefits of using a surfboard leash. In fact, boards already come with the attachment so you can wear one and easily connect it to your board. Having one on when you come off the board prevents losing it, but there are several styles to choose from that make a difference in how well they work and drag on the board.

The first part you'll notice is the cuff. There are two places it can be worn. Most wear them on the ankle since this is the most comfortable. It's high and not in the way. For those that use the longboard, they often like to have them on the calf part of the leg. This, coupled with a longer leash, lets them move back and forth on the board more freely without getting tangled in the cord. Having the cord attached to the ankle also makes it easier to pull back to the board when you're in the water. On the calf, it is more difficult.

Swivels are a nice device to include. This piece allows the cord to spin freely without getting tangled or bunched up. If the cord starts to bunch it shortens its length. Having a swivel prevents this and makes it much easier to control the cord in the water.

Cords are usually made from polyurethane. The important aspect is the thickness. Professional surfers prefer a thinner cord to prevent drag. Beginners should start with the thicker cord until they are more experienced at falling off the board. This seems odd, but professionals are good at coming off the board in a less violent way. The thinner cords can easily break if the surfer and the board are separated in a rough manner.

Rail savers keep the board attached without breaking the cord. These are at the end of the cord that connects to the board. The fabric is designed to help keep the end protected so it doesn't break from thrashing movements. Thicker ones offer better protection to the end of the board but also create a significant amount of drag. The size and thickness of this is a matter of preference.

Length does matter. Most surfers will have one that is at least four feet long. The key is to have one that is long enough to do its job but not so long that it gets tangled in your legs or on the fin. Longboards usually required a longer cord; sometimes up to twelve feet. The longer the board, the more likely to have tangling or for it to drift into another surfer.

Drag is a problem in competition. For beginning surfers, this is not a concern. They are less likely to notice it while they're gaining experience. Once they switch to the thinner cords, they'll notice a significant improvement in drag. Competitive surfers typically use a much thinner cord to eliminate as much drag as possible.

Surfing is a great way to have fun in the sun. Those that take it seriously will have all the right equipment in order to be competitive and move as quickly and smoothly as possible. The right leash, in the right position, can keep you attached to your board and never slow you down.




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