Surfing essentials come in many forms. Once you’ve nailed down your ideal surfboard it’s time to sort that all important wetsuit. Here at NCW, we have plenty, as you’ll already know. But what about other surfing essentials?
Surfing seasonality dictates.
During summer you can get away with less clobber in the UK. With warmer days comes ability to thin out your wetsuit rubber and ditch other items. But there are still times you need some additional ‘bits’.
And don’t forget that some of these wetsuit accessories work for winter riding as well. So having gotten this kit sorted you’ll be free to pick and choose when and where you need it.
Thermal rash vests.
Unfortunately, some Wetsuits do have a habit of chaffing. Neck, under arms, wrists and other susceptible bodily areas can get rubbed by your wetsuit. In this instance, a rash vest could be worn.
The problem with lycra rash vests is they add no additional warmth. And in fact could make you feel colder. A UV resistant type can be adorned on sunny, hot days to keep the sun’s rays at bay. But for most surfers needing a rash vest we’d advise a thermal garment. This will help prevent annoying wetsuit chaffing, fend off the cold during cooler periods and can be worn as a stand alone garment on warmer days.
Wetsuit boots.
Designed with warmth in mind wetsuit boots were traditionally used in winter to keep tootsie’s from freezing. These days there are plenty who wear them in warmer months.
One reason could be the sea bed you have to walk on which may be unkind to exposed flesh. Think reefs and such. You might not want full 5mm boots (less thick versions are available) but in all instances boots will protect feet no question.
Wetsuit gloves.
As with boots wetsuit gloves are 100% needed for surfing when cold winter weather sweeps in. But during warmer times there may also be a need for gloves.
Dinghy sailors, for instance, use gloves to avoid rope abrasion. Main and jib sheets sliding through wet hands will cause wear and tear. Whereas wetsuit gloves will stop this.
Surfing wetsuit hats and hoods.
You probably wouldn’t the thickest wetsuit hood for summertime watersports. But just as with other surfing accessories, there may be times when a hood is required
We know many wild swimmers who wear wetsuit hats for open water sessions. Some of these hats will be coloured brightly to warn other water users of their presence. And whilst not the thickest neoprene they will keep wearer’s heads warm when submerged.
The described scenarios are just a few applications of when surfing wetsuit accessories may prove useful in warmer months. And for alternative activities, rather than surfing per se. If you have specific watersports requirements why not check out NCW’s range of wetsuit accessories by following this link.