The Beginners’ Guide to Surfing Gear

YEW! is a maker of high-performing sustainable surf wax that’ll keep both you and the environment stoked. It’s made of beeswax instead of the petro-chemicals often found in deck grip, and they make a version for soft tops, which do indeed need to be waxed.

Wetsuits are one of the most environmentally destructive pieces of gear out there, which may come as a surprise, considering how surfing is such a salt of the earth sport. Patagonia’s Yulex wetsuits replace the non-biodegradable neoprene while still keeping you ultra warm for hours in water. 

ISLE’s 8’ Coronado is a buoyant, lightweight homage to the brand’s San Diego beginnings. Another swell option is Catch Surf’s 9’ log, which pros like Jamie O’Brien still keep in their quiver. 

Carlsbad-based prAna launched its splashy Baja Bound line of rash guards featuring fun retro colorways and an Ultraviolet Protection Factor rating of 50, giving great protection from the harsh sun reflecting off the water. 

Sun protection is key year-round, especially on the water. And it’s ultra important to make sure to use reef-safe mineral sunscreen, protecting the ocean that we revel in. B.C-based FORAH makes excellent everyday SPF, as well as cleansing oil and serum that rehydrate the skin after a session. 

We were first introduced to the 3.5 gallon PRO on our Dawn Patrol session at San Onofre with Izzy Gomez, where the owners of the Laguna Surf Lodge filled the unit up with warm water (it can take temps from 33°F – 110°F.) The Rinse Kit Pro was luxe to say the least—a real upgrade from the city showers provided at public beaches. The battery-pressurized model makes for consistent water pressure, and it’s super easy to use. Just fill, power up, and rinse off.  

Sand Cloud Turkish towels stash easily, dry quickly, and are incredibly versatile. Use them as a towel or blanket, or wear as a sarong or protective headscarf. Ten percent of each purchase goes toward marine restoration.