The Best Gifts for Beginner and Experienced Surfers
Published December 29, 2023 at 10:03 am
Whether you’re looking to stoke out a newbie wave rider or score the perfect gift for a seasoned swell chaser, our curated guide dives into the top picks for surfers of all skill levels, ensuring your gift makes a splash.

Essential Gear for Every Surfer
Whether you’re just getting your feet wet or riding waves like a pro, having the right gear can make all the difference in your surfing experience. Let’s dive into the essentials that should be part of any surfer’s arsenal, both for safety and for enhancing the joy of catching waves.
For beginners, the first item on your list should be a surfboard that’s suited to your level. While there’s a vast array of surfboards out there, a foam board or a longboard is often recommended for novices. The Wavestorm 8′ Surfboard is a popular choice due to its stability, buoyancy, and ease of use. Many have praised its soft-top, which provides a comfortable surface for paddling and popping up, making it a forgiving option for those just starting out.
On the other hand, experienced surfers often look for a board that complements their skills and wave preferences. The Firewire Dominator 2.0, for instance, is a versatile hybrid board known for its high performance in a variety of wave conditions. It’s said to excel in both small waves and overhead barrels, with its lightweight and durable construction earning positive reviews from seasoned surfers.
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Next up is the wetsuit, which isn’t just for style – it keeps you warm in chilly waters, protecting against hypothermia. The thickness and style of your wetsuit will depend on the water temperature. O’Neill’s Reactor II 3/2mm Full Wetsuit is praised for its warmer climates suitability and flexibility. On the flip side, for colder waters, Patagonia’s R4 Yulex Front-Zip Hooded Full Suit provides superior warmth and durability, crafted from natural rubber and recycled materials and is a hit among eco-conscious surfers.
Surf wax is another must-have, ensuring you don’t slip right off your board. For a variety of water temperatures, Mr. Zogs Original Sex Wax has a solid reputation for providing a good grip without being overly sticky. Choosing the right wax for the water temperature you’re surfing in is crucial, as it prevents the wax from melting or hardening, and reviewers often note that Mr. Zogs does an excellent job of offering different formulas for different conditions.
A good-quality leash, like the Dakine Kainui Team Surf Leash, is important for keeping your board close by after a wipeout, preventing it from hurting others. Most surfers look for durability and comfort in a leash, and this Dakine model is often lauded for its strong urethane cord and comfortable ankle strap.
Improving Performance with Advanced Accessories
While the essential gear gets you in the water, advanced accessories can elevate your performance. One such accessory is the surf watch. For example, the Rip Curl Search GPS 2 Surf Watch not only tells time but also tracks your surf, registers top speed, and counts waves, which could be a boost for surfers aiming to track progress and improve.
Upgrading your surfboard fins can also provide a noticeable improvement in board responsiveness. The FCS II Performer Fin Set is a favorite among many for its balance of speed, flow, and response, particularly in a variety of wave conditions, with many surfers observing a marked enhancement in their turns and overall maneuverability after switching to these fins.
For those looking to capture their surf sessions on camera, the GoPro HERO9 Black offers stunning 5K video and 20MP photos. The camera’s waterproof design and mounting options make it the go-to choice for surfers looking to document their rides. User reviews often highlight the HyperSmooth stabilization, which is key for the dynamic movement of surfing.
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Another gadget gaining popularity is the surf earplug, essential for protecting your ears from cold water and wind, which can cause exostosis or surfer’s ear. The SurfEars 3.0 has received accolades for its comfort and its ability to keep water out while letting sound in, so you remain connected to your environment.
Personalizing Your Surfing Experience
Now that we’ve covered the performance enhancers, let’s talk personalization. Surfing isn’t just a sport; it’s a lifestyle, and personal touches can reflect your style and attitude towards this cherished pastime. Custom board graphics, for example, draw attention and communicate your individuality in the lineup. Companies like BoardLams offer customizable, adhesive surfboard skins that are durable and stunning in design, allowing surfers to showcase their personality on their boards.
Moreover, investing in a high-quality surfboard bag is both functional and personal. The Pro-Lite Rhino Travel Surfboard Bag series offers heavy-duty protection for your board, with additional padding and pockets for gear. It’s an investment in your equipment’s longevity and simplifies transportation, an important consideration when heading to remote surf spots.
Optimal Surf Accessories for Convenience and Safety
Beyond improving your performance, there are accessories that add convenience and safety to your surfing experience. Safety should never be an afterthought in the ocean, so let’s explore some gear that will keep you secure while adding ease to your surf sessions.
A reliable surfboard rack for your vehicle is a game-changer, especially when traveling to distant shores. The Thule Surf Pad is a trustworthy choice for many surfers, known for its durable construction and protective padding. It fits a variety of vehicles and securely holds your boards, ensuring they arrive in pristine condition. Reviews often mention the ease of installation and the peace of mind that comes with using this surf rack system.
On the topic of safety, a personal flotation device (PFD) like the O’Neill Reactor USCG Life Vest can be very prudent, especially in choppy or unpredictable conditions. It’s known for not restricting movement, which is essential when paddling out or getting up on the wave. Seasoned surfers appreciate the Reactor’s comfortable fit and stylish look while knowing it adds an extra layer of safety to their outdoor adventures.
Efficient communication can also be crucial, particularly when surfing in a group or far off the coast. The Surf Communication Walkie Talkie set by OceanSignal is specifically designed for aquatic environments, allowing surfers to stay in touch even through the noise of crashing waves. Many reviews praise its waterproof design and long battery life, making it a staple for those who want to remain connected even while at sea.
Additionally, having a first-aid kit, like the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight & Watertight .5 First Aid Kit, is something no surfer should overlook. It is packed with essential medical supplies yet is compact enough to carry in a backpack. Reviewers commend it for being comprehensive without being burdensome, plus the waterproof case proves indispensable in wet conditions.
Supporting Surfers with Innovative Training Tools
While time in the water is the best way to improve your surfing skills, there are also innovative training tools to help surfers sharpen their abilities on land. Balance boards are a prime example, with the Revolution Swell 2.0 Balance Board providing a simulated surfing experience. Users report improvements in core strength and balance, key components of surfing, thanks to this training aid. Its durable build and versatility make it an ideal off-season training tool for surfers.
Another helpful gadget is the Trace Surf Tracker, a device you attach to your board that analyzes your surfing. It can track the number of waves caught, ride length, and speed, providing valuable feedback for performance improvement. Surfers who use it seem to love the detailed data it provides, noting that it’s like having a personal coach with you in the water.
For those days when the ocean is flat, a Carver Skateboard is an excellent option for keeping your surfing instincts sharp. Carver’s trucks offer a smooth, carving sensation akin to wave riding, and models like the Carver Resin have been highlighted for helping surfers maintain their groove. Reviews suggest using these boards for fun and functional cross-training.
Finally, training doesn’t stop at physical preparation. There are a host of mobile apps that focus on surf forecasts, skill improvement, and mental preparation. One popular choice is the Surfline app, providing detailed surf forecasts and live surf cams to plan your next session. Surfers appreciate the reliability of Surfline’s forecasts and the sense of community fostered through user-generated content and forums.
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Choosing the Perfect Surfing Apparel
When you’re out in the big blue, the importance of proper surfing attire cannot be underestimated, not just for comfort but for protection from sun, sand, and surf. Surfing apparel like boardshorts, rash guards, and sun protection hats are not just fashion statements—they’re functional gears that safeguard your skin against the elements.
For instance, boardshorts like the Hurley Phantom series are highly regarded for their stretch fabric and durable water-repellent treatment, making it easy to move and stay dry. The Phantom boardshorts have gathered notable reviews for their comfort and quick-drying features, making them a staple in any surfer’s wardrobe.
Rash guards serve as a protective layer between you and your board, reducing the risk of chafing and rashes. The Quiksilver All Time Long Sleeve Rashguard offers UPF 50 sun protection and a snug fit without being restrictive, as many in the community would say. It’s essential for long days under the sun, and many surfers vouch for its ability to keep them rash-free throughout their session.
Don’t forget to protect your head too. A hat like the Patagonia Surf Brim provides excellent coverage with a chin strap to keep it secure even when the waves are unforgiving. Reviews often mention the comfort and sun protection this hat provides, thanking it for the extra hours they could spend in the water without worrying about sunburn.
Moreover, sunscreen is a non-negotiable item for surfers. A water-resistant and eco-friendly option like Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion is beloved for its protective qualities and reef-safe ingredients. Surfers frequently commend it for its long-lasting formula that withstands strenuous surf sessions without causing harm to marine life.
Books and Resources to Expand Surfing Knowledge
Lastly, an often-overlooked aspect of the surfing journey is continuing education on surfing culture, techniques, and environmental awareness. Books and resources play a significant role in expanding the knowledge and appreciation of the sport.
“Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life” by William Finnegan, a Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir, delves into the soul of surfing and its culture. The book has been acclaimed by surfers for its capturing narrative and intimate look into the life of a dedicated surfer, making it a must-read for admirers of the sport.
For instructional content, “The Surfer’s Guide to Waves, Coasts, and Climates” by Tony Butt is a treasure trove of information on how waves are formed and how coastal processes shape the surfing experience. Readers have found it to be incredibly insightful, improving their understanding of the ocean and allowing them to make more informed decisions about where and when to surf.
Understanding the environmental impact of surfing is also critical. “Sustainable Stoke: Transitions to Sustainability in the Surfing World” edited by Gregory Borne and Jess Ponting is an anthology that discusses the ecological aspects of surfing. It’s said that this collection is an eye-opener for many surfers, inspiring them to strive for sustainability in their surfing practices.
Investing time in resources like these is not just about gaining knowledge; it’s also about becoming a part of a global community who respects the sport and cherishes our oceans. You never stop learning as a surfer, and these readings are pivotal to that never-ending education.
Whether you’re heading out to catch your very first wave or you’re carving like a pro, remember that the best gifts for surfers come in many forms, from the tangible like boards and wetsuits, to the intangible such as knowledge and community. Each piece of gear or accessory is not just an item but also represents a chapter in a surfer’s journey. And most importantly, the ultimate gift you can give to yourself or any surfer is the respect for the ocean and the commitment to preserving its beauty for generations of wave riders to come.

Avery Ingram
Contributor