Surf Shop

What is in the surf shop

• Wetsuits: full suits from 2/2mm to 6/5mm, hooded winter suits, spring suits, a long jane, neoprene jackets and a wetsuit vest, with chest zip, back zip and zipless entry.
• Boots, gloves and hoods: Vissla and Sisstrevolution neoprene boots in 3mm, 5mm and 7mm with split or round toes, gloves from 1.5mm to 5mm, and 3mm hoods.
• Surfboard fins: Deflow thruster and quad sets, twin and twin keel fins, a twinzer set, side bites and single fins for longboards and mid-lengths.
• Traction pads and leashes: Deflow tail pads with raised kicks, front pads with arch bars, and leashes from 5ft to 9ft, including a thick-cord winter leash.
• Racks and storage: Range soft roof racks, roof bar pads and tie-down straps, plus wall racks and a freestanding stand from Range and Living in Sunshine.
• For the beach: Vissla and Sisstrevolution rash vests and long sleeve surf tees, a long sleeve swimsuit, the Range Storm Robe changing robe, insulated drinks bottles, a beach towel, car seat covers and a combination key safe.
• Repairs and tools: ding tape, a Ding Aid repair kit with UV cure resin, and a multi-tool with a fin key and wax comb.

Building a kit for UK surfing

UK sea temperatures run from roughly 7 to 10°C in winter to 15 to 18°C in late summer, so most surfers here end up with more than one wetsuit. If you are putting a kit together, this order works for most people:

• A wetsuit for the season you surf most. A 4/3mm covers spring and autumn; add a 5/4mm or 6/5mm hooded suit for winter and a 3/2mm for summer.
• Boots, then gloves and a hood as the water cools through autumn.
• Fins that match your board's fin boxes, and a leash roughly the length of your board.
• A traction pad for your back foot if you ride a shortboard or groveller.
• A way to carry and store your boards, such as a soft roof rack for the car and a wall rack at home.

Looking after your gear

Rinse wetsuits, boots, gloves and hoods in fresh water after each surf and dry them inside out, away from direct sunlight and radiators. Rinse fins and leashes too, and check leash cords, swivels and cuffs for wear before each session. Repair dings promptly so water cannot soak into the board, and check roof rack straps are tight before every drive.

Surfing safely in the UK

Where you can, surf at lifeguarded beaches and stay between the black and white chequered flags, which mark the zone for surfboards and other craft. Check the forecast, tide times and local hazards before you go and never surf alone in unfamiliar spots. In an emergency on the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.