Aloha everyone!
Welcome to our beautiful Hawaiian beaches, where the waves are calling and the sun is shining. If you're here to learn how to surf, you're in for an incredible adventure that blends the thrill of the ocean with the vibrant spirit of island life.
Before you hit the water, let's talk about the right gear to ensure your comfort, safety, and maximum enjoyment. Here’s what you need to know:
Choosing the Right Swimwear for the Waves
Comfort and functionality are crucial when selecting swimwear for surfing. Choose fitted options that allow for free movement. Here are two popular choices:
Boardshorts: Perfect for men, boardshorts offer both comfort and coverage. Choose a pair that fits properly and features a secure waistband, with a length above the knee for greater flexibility. Boardshorts are also an excellent choice for women, providing extra comfort and protection.
Swimsuits: Women should consider a well-fitted one-piece or a supportive bikini. Look for styles with thicker straps or support features to help prevent slipping. Tops should fit snug similar to a sports bra, with simple and comfortable straps.
⚠️ Surfwear Test Tip: Surf bottoms should be squat proof aka: flexible material to prevent any wardrobe malfunctions!
In Hawaii, water temperatures usually range from 70°F to 80°F, so heavy wetsuits are generally unnecessary unless you're surfing early mornings, windy conditions, or in winter when temperatures can drop slightly.
Adding Layering Pieces: Rash Guards
Rash guards are crucial for anyone learning to surf. They shield your skin from the sun's intense UV rays and help prevent chafing, also known as board rash, on the chest, abdomen, and arms.
Long-Sleeved Rash Guards: Perfect for any beach session, these provide extra sun protection. For example, studies show that wearing a rash guard can reduce the likelihood of sunburn by up to 50%. You can buy specialized rash guards that have built-in UV protection.
Short-Sleeved Rash Guards: Great for those hot days when you want maximum mobility. Choose one that fits snugly, ensuring comfort while paddling and moving on your board.
Leggings: Provide additional sun protection and comfort in cooler water or during long surf sessions. Choose snug-fitting leggings made from spandex/lycra material, similar to yoga pants.
Considerations for the Cold
If you plan to surf during Hawaii's winter months or venture to cooler waters, you'll need additional gear:
Wetsuits: Even in Hawaii, a lightweight wetsuit can help maintain your body temperature during cooler conditions. A shorty wetsuit, with short sleeves and legs, is typically adequate for winter surfing sessions.
Neoprene Accessories: If you’re sensitive to cold, consider using booties or even gloves for extra warmth.
Skin Protection: Sunscreen
Opt for a high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen. Research indicates that applying sunblock twice can lower the risk of sunburn by 95%. Ensure it is formulated to endure water exposure. Using reef-safe sunscreen is not just about protecting your skin—it's also about preserving Hawaii's beautiful marine ecosystems. Our coral reefs are home to a diverse array of marine life, and certain chemicals found in conventional sunscreens can cause significant harm to these delicate ecosystems.
Check out our article: Ultimate Sunscreen Guide
🪸 By making the switch to reef-safe sunscreen, you’ll be safeguarding your skin while also playing a part in protecting Hawaii's stunning underwater world.
Footwear: Surf Booties or Barefoot?
While seasoned surfers typically prefer to surf barefoot in our warm waters for better board feel, wearing surf booties is recommended if you're not familiar with the entry and exit points and the underlayer structure of the surf zone. Numerous beaches and surf breaks in Hawaii have coral reef systems and rocky shorelines.
Surf Booties: Choose lightweight neoprene booties that fully cover the foot and toes, fitting snugly, ideally with a strap for secure fitting. They offer protection without restricting movement and are particularly beneficial for surfing on rocky shores or in cooler weather.
👣 Booties offer protection against slippery rocks and sharp coral. Think of them as a foot insurance policy—far better than applying bandages after surfing. They are also perfect for other island adventures, such as general beach outings and hiking near coastlines or waterfalls.
Accessories: Sun Safety Essentials
Protecting yourself from the sun is essential while enjoying Hawaii's beaches. Here are key accessories:
Hat: A wide-brimmed hat provides excellent sun protection when you're not in the water. But, be careful if you wear any hat while learning to surf. Opt for a basic cap (such as a trucker-style with a foam front) that floats and isn't valuable, as there's a chance it might get lost in the waves. Additionally, hats with chin straps can be a choking risk for surfers if you lose your balance and fall, which is a natural part of learning to surf.
Sunglasses: While it might seem like a good idea to protect your eyes from the sun's glare, wearing sunglasses in the surf comes with several drawbacks:
Loss of focus: Nothing is more distracting from your ultimate goal than losing focus on your ocean surroundings, balance, and wave riding.
Loss Risk: The ocean's powerful waves can easily knock sunglasses off your face, leading to a high risk of losing them and adding to plastics in our ocean.
Safety Concerns: Sunglasses can obstruct your peripheral vision, making it harder to spot other surfers, obstacles, or changes in wave patterns, which can be dangerous.
Instead, using a hat with a brim while paddling and applying sunscreen specifically designed for the face are great alternatives to protect your eyes without the risks associated with sunglasses.
🌊 Surf Tip: Riding a wave isn't guaranteed, but falling off your board is.
Avoiding Common Surfing Attire Mistakes
To enjoy your surfing experience fully, steer clear of these common outfit mistakes:
Heavy Clothing: Stay away from heavy fabrics or loose clothing that can weigh you down and impair movement in the water.
Non-Swimming Materials: Avoid cotton since it retains water, making you uncomfortable and heavy while paddling.
By choosing appropriate gear, you'll feel much more comfortable when learning the basics of paddling, balancing, and riding the waves.
Bringing the Right Gear to Your Surf Lesson
In addition to your surf attire, don’t forget these essentials for a smooth surf experience:
Towel: A lightweight, quick-drying towel will be perfect after your surf lesson and is easy to pack.
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially under the Hawaiian sun. Aim to drink at least two liters of water during your beach day.
Change of Clothes: After surfing, you might want to freshen up. Bring comfortable clothes to change into after your session.
Embracing the Surf Experience
Learning to surf in Hawaii is an unforgettable adventure, and wearing the right attire can significantly enhance your experience. Opt for functional swimwear, prioritize sun safety, and avoid common mistakes.
By gearing up properly, you'll be ready to embrace the waves in style and comfort. Get excited, grab your surfboard, and prepare to ride the stunning Hawaiian waves! The ocean awaits—make sure you answer its call, dressed for success!
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