What Size Surfboard Leash Should I Get?

August 16, 2022 3 min read

The thickness of a surfboard leash increases with size. The larger and more powerful waves need a leash that is at least 7 feet long and seven millimeters in diameter. If you're surfing on big or very-big waves, you need a leash that is eight to twelve feet long and eight to nine millimeters in diameter. Lastly, you may want to consider Rail savers for extra safety.

Leash Thickness

Depending on your surfboard, the thickness of your leash will vary. Thinner leashes are suitable for beginners, while thicker ones are better for more experienced surfers. In fact, leash thickness is primarily determined by your surfing skill and experience. Beginners should consider the length and width of their board before purchasing a leash. Beginners usually prefer to round up their surfboard size by 1' to get a better fit.

The thickness of your leash also depends on the type of water conditions you plan to surf in. Thinner leashes are better for small waves, while thicker ones are best for bigger and regular waves. However, remember that thinner leashes tend to cause more drag than thick ones, and a thicker one will be more comfortable and easier to handle. You can also opt for a leash that is longer, as they are better for beginners.

Leash length

Longboarders often choose a longer leash than beginners. The reason for this is that the length of the surfboard reaches out farther during a wipeout, increasing the risk of another surfer being hit by it. In addition, thick leashes add unnecessary drag to the board while in the water. Conversely, a short leash can make a fall on the board more difficult and cause it to rebound. If you have good board control, try to adapt the length of your leash to your preferred board.

A surfboard leash should be at least the same length as the board. However, it is possible to buy leashes in various lengths that are proportional to the board. Fortunately, there are leashes available for any length, from four feet for a child's board to as long as twelve feet for a longboard. The length of the leash should be proportionate to the length of the board, and be slightly longer or shorter than the board's length.

Leash Diameter

When choosing a leash, it's important to choose the diameter that will properly attach to your surfboard. For most surfboards, a diameter of two to three inches is ideal. However, if you have a surfboard that's smaller than two inches, you may need a longer leash. Fortunately, you can buy leashes with a larger diameter, too. However, you should be wary of the dangers associated with using a long leash on your surfboard.

When selecting a surfboard leash, keep in mind that size and board power are only two factors to consider when choosing the length. A 7-foot leash is a good standard for most surfboards, while 8 to nine-foot lengths are appropriate for larger boards. If you plan to walk your board to the nose, you should opt for a length of nine to ten feet. This will keep you and your surfboard from getting caught in the impact zone.

Rail Savers

If you're strapped to a leash, you should consider buying a rail saver for your surfboard. These accessories are designed to protect the rails of your board from the leash cord and prevent the leash from touching the rails and pulling into the tail. The rail saver is typically made of thick protective fabric and fastens with velcro. It is designed to catch the leash when the waves pull it away, keeping it from cutting the tail of your surfboard.

These are essential to protect your board during travel. Most rail savers have 2 layers and require you to remove the top one first. To remove the other layer, use a hair dryer to melt the glue. If the rail saver is stuck, just tug gently on it until it comes off. Then you can proceed to remove the remaining rail saver. This process should be fairly simple and won't take much time.



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