Surfing is a sport that has been around for quite some time. Surfing is said to have originated and developed in Hawaii, which then spread the globe as a hugely popular sport in recent times. With it comes a culture that is recognizable to anyone that comes across it and is hugely popular amongst all walks of life. When it comes to what to wear, there are no set rules in regards to fashion, but there are when it comes to safety. Here we are going to take a look at the importance of wearing proper attire when surfing.
Board Shorts
These were originally called surf trunks and were designed specifically with surfing in mind, which is why it’s important to wear them when taking on the waves. They are purpose made so are quite literally perfect for wearing when riding your surfboard. Not only that but with the sheer number of designs available, they look fantastic too! You can look cool on the beach whilst having the best function available for surfing.
Rash Guard
If you have skin that is susceptible to coming up in a rash or is very sensitive, then I would recommend getting a rash guard. It’s a product that ‘does what it says on the tin’ and protects you from the wax on your board, the sun, or even the saltwater. The guards are made from stretchy elastic and are a comfortable fit, so it won’t bother you when you’re taking to the waves.
Wetsuit
There are quite a few different types of wetsuit, and we will go through them, but to start off, we will have a look at the full-body wetsuit. This suit is complete with long arms and long legs and will come in two thicknesses, 3:2 and 4:3. The larger the number, the thicker the neoprene is in the suit. Richard at SouthernMan.com.au says that it’s essential to invest in a decent wetsuit if you’re planning on surfing in the winter or in any cold water. You have to protect yourself for every eventuality when taking part in a sport like surfing, cold water can affect you much quicker than you think and can have deadly consequences.
The spring suit is a full-body suit but with short arms and short legs. They are perfect for the cooler days as they keep you warm but also limit your movement as they restrict your limbs. The majority of surfers don’t wear these as they believe that they aren’t that fashionable and opt for something they prefer. The legs finish above the knee, which is good for warmth, but not for looking cool whilst shredding the waves.
For those looking for something to add to their board shorts look, then you can get specific vests, t-shirts, and jackets made from neoprene, which will keep you warm but look like a rash vest at the same time. The good thing about these is that they have a multitude of functions from acting as a rash vest to keeping your upper body warm when sitting waiting for a wave, you can also layer underneath them creating even more warmth for yourself.
Accessories
There are plenty of accessories to add to your list, but something like a necklace isn’t going to make the cut of things to wear that have importance. If the weather really is cold, then a wetsuit is your first port of call, but they don’t have hands and feet, something that’s pretty important to look after. You can buy neoprene gloves, boots, and a hood for those days that you need every bit of your skin covered to ensure you keep warm.
Something more fashionable but has function are sunglasses, if you’re out on the beach all day, then harmful UV rays could be damaging your sight, so it’s the perfect excuse to look cool and don your favorite pair of sunnies.
Surfing is an amazing sport that boasts numerous championships and an audience to match, there are even surfers that ended up as household names with families that have never surfed in their life. Whilst the majority of surfing is pretty safe, there are occasions where you really need to keep your wits about you, and it’s nothing to do with what you’re wearing. Surfing in places like Australia comes with different dangers, sharks beneath the water can often get confused and think your surfboard is a tasty meal and will take a bite before realizing you’re a human. Keep your wits about you when surfing in exotic places and always make sure you’re wearing the correct clothing to protect yourself from the sun but more so if you have sensitive skin. Enjoy the waves!
