Selecting 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.

The cuff is the first piece you need to choose. The two places it can go are on your thigh or ankle. Many wear them on the ankle because it is more comfortable. People that use the longboard like to keep them on the calf. It's higher this way and since it'll have to be longer, it produces less drag and allows the surfer to move around without getting tangled up.

Swivels are important. If you get one without, you'll quickly find out how easy it is to get the cord twisted up, making it shorter. This shorter cord then becomes a problem when you are on the board.

The material used is polyurethane. This is more flexible than cotton or hemp and won't become brittle from being in the water and the sun. The flexibility is also good because being able to stretch it when you yank on it will keep it from breaking. You also need to be aware of the thickness. Thin cords break more easily but provide less drag. Thicker cords are stronger but if too long create enough drag to make a difference in your performance. Find a nice middle ground based on your needs.

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 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.

Having fun on the ways is a great way to enjoy the summer. Whether you're experienced or new to surfing you need to have the equipment that best matches your style. Having a leash will keep the board close by and easy to retrieve when you come off and keep it from injuring other surfers.




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