As a surfer, you need all the equipment necessary before going surfing on the waters. Among such equipment is a surfboard leash. You may be confused while looking to purchase one, as they are of varying shapes, sizes, and lengths. However, with the following tips, you can ease your way into buying the right leash for you.
You need to consider the length of the leash cord that is right for your board. The cord should not be as long as it will be challenging to use the surfboard. If it is shorter, you may get hit by the board while surfing. Therefore, the correct length for a leash is the length of the board.
The leash should also be thick enough to hold your leg stronger. If the cord is not thick enough, you may end up losing balance while surfing. The leash should be evenly thick, thus stronger and sturdier to avoid breaking. However, it may drag your speed, hence not suitable for racing purposes. Therefore, depending on the purpose, you should determine the thickness of the leash you need.
The swivel on the leash is very helpful when it comes to your safety. A swivel allows the leash to spin and twist when surfing. You do not want a tangled-up leash around your leg that might cause you to trip. You should, therefore, get a leash with single or possibly double swivels to keep you safe from tripping in the waters.
The cuff is the part that is attached to the leg of the surfer. It needs to be comfortable and very secure. You can check if its secure through checking the wrapping where the attachment is done. Most cuffs have a double wrap to ensure safety. You can verify the comfort offered by the different cuffs by trying them while on the stores.
The rail saver is the part that connects the leash to the surfboard. It helps protect the board rail from the cord when pressure is applied on the leash. It prevents the leash from breaking through the board. The wider and longer the rail saver is, the more protection offered to the surfboard rail. It, however, drags the speed of surfing.
Your experience as a surfer is also a key factor to keep in mind when purchasing your surfboard leash. If you are a beginner on surfing, you should consider the length and thickness of the leash. It is advisable to get a leash that is just right for the board. A long leash can be very dangerous as the board will have a wider radius and may hit harder. However, if you are a pro, you can get a shorter leash, with less thickness to help you maneuver through the waters with speed.
All the mentioned factors will help you ensure comfortability and safety on the water. If you are keen enough to follow them when purchasing a surfboard leash, you will be well on your way to purchasing the right one for you.