Monday, July 8, 2019

Picking 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.

First, select the right cuff and where you will place it. You can put it on your ankle, which is what most surfers do. It's much more comfortable here and doesn't feel like it's getting in the way. However, for the longer boards, you may want to wear it on your calf. These need to have longer cords so having it up higher will keep it from dragging and getting tangled in the fin or your feet while moving back and forth on the board.

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.

Polyurethane is the main ingredient. Cotton cords shrink in the water and can become brittle in the sun. Using the polyurethane keeps them in good shape and provides some elasticity so they can bounce back and take the jerking motion used to pull them closer. The thickness of the cord also makes a difference. Thicker cords are stronger but create more drag. Thinner cords are not as strong but create less drag. There is a sweet middle level that each surfer needs to pick based on their own style or preference.

The material used to protect the cord from rubbing on the board is called a rail saver. These come in different thicknesses as well. Thinner ones need to be replaced more often but don't create as much drag. Again, this is a preference that will be different for each surfer.

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.

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.

Fun in the sun includes surfing. In order to be safe and not lose your board, you need to have the right equipment. Keeping it close at hand when you're in the water is the main reason that you wear a cord. You don't want to have to chase after your board or watch it float out into the ocean.




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