Thursday, January 28, 2016

Surfboard Leashes: One Item No Novice Surfer Can Afford to Forget

At first glance, novices may mistake surfboard leashes as afterthoughts. However, they are actually important items that can mean the difference between a lost board and a recoverable one. Meant to attach riders to the most critical piece of sports equipment they’ll ever own, surfboard leashes vary from one another in more than a half-dozen ways. We’ve outlined some, but not all of those areas below:
  • Colors and Patterns
  • Rail Saver and Cord
  • Swivel and Cuff
  • Length and Width
  • Attachment Location
To explain further, some surfboard leashes boast fluorescent colors and patterns whereas others are solid black. They may be exceptionally thick with double swivels, long rail savers and padded, double, wrap-around cuffs or thin, short and devoid of swivels with a single cuff. Also, some may be designed to attach to the rider’s calf.

Why so many surfboard leash variations? Is it simply a matter of trendy fashion? Firmly stated, “It has to do with a rider’s comfort, surfing style, board type and fashion sense. For instance, longboarders often choose thin, long leashes that attach to the lower leg and boast swivels for comfort sake. Why? It’s because those types of leashes allow the riders to walk or stand without difficulty and won’t slow them or their boards down.

Shortboard riders, on the other hand, may prefer thick, ankle leashes with swivel combinations that allow them to turn quickly without having to worry about breakage. This may be precisely true for surfers who enjoy showing off a wide repertoire of fancy footwork. Similar could be said for surfers who tend to visit areas known for their areas of white water.

With that said, novices may want to contact us for help in choosing surfboard leashes to go with their other equipment and emerging styles. We carry a number of DaKine leashes as well as other brands too and are prepared to explain their various benefits.
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Thursday, January 21, 2016

Surfboard Visionary No Longer With Us

Chances are, if you enjoy surfing, you have benefited from the revolutionary technology of Larry Gordon, founder of Gordon & Smith Surfboards. This visionary passed away on January 1, 2016 after years of leading the surfboard industry, according to a San Diego news article.

When Gordon and Smith became friends through their shared love of surfing, surfboards were made from balsa wood. These surfboards were heavy, hard to steer, and bogged down with water. Since Gordon's father had a plastics company, Gordon had access to the foam chemicals needed to create the polyurethane foam surfboards that are popular today. They built their own mold and blew their own foam to build the surfboards that revolutionized the industry.

Gordon & Smith was based in San Diego, but continued to have a branch in Australia. They moved on to manufacturing skateboards, and created a worldwide brand that is still reputable today. Through the decades, G&S had a team of legendary surfers helping them lead in innovation. According to their website,
"Always staying current but never sacrificing integrity, Gordon and Smith was able to successfully lead this progression of change to become, at that time, the world’s largest surfboard manufacturer."
Even until his old age, Gordon remained the owner of G&S and continued to pursue his passion of surfing. He said that being able to serve millions with surf and skate gear provided the vision for the future of the company. Gordon will be dearly missed at G&S and in all of the surfing world. His innovations made surfing what it is today.

For the best and current equipment, apparel, and surfing accessories contact us.
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Thursday, January 14, 2016

4 Resolutions to Make With Your Surfboard

With the new year comes a new adventure, especially for you and your surfboard. And with many people making resolutions related to getting fit or improving something they do, why not take it to the next level with your surfing? Here are 4 resolutions we recommend taking that will not only build you as a better surfer, but give you unforgettable experiences.

1.  Try out new spots and times. If one of your goals is to travel more this year, try taking your board with you in a surfboard bag and go out into the world. Getting great surf on different coasts and in different countries will allow you to experience waves you've never seen on your own home turf.  In addition, you can try surfing locally in spots you don't normally visit, or at different times of the day. If you've never been an early riser, getting up and checking the waves at sunrise can be a great way to not only get in more practice, but see the ocean in a different light.

2. Go out with a longboard. If you haven't been surfing with a longboard, this year is a great time to explore. Not only do you get more waves at smaller sizes, but it can help build your balance and skill if you're a new surfer.

3. Take good care of your board and related gear. Some of us aren't as meticulous about our surf gear as others, but it can really allow you look forward more to surfing when your gear is well cared for. When your board is well waxed, your car cleaned up after every trip, and your wetsuit rinsed after every use, you'll find your surfing trips less of a hassle.

4. Stretch and exercise outside surfing. Doing regular stretches, yoga, and other activities will help bring you even more strength and flexibility on your board, in addition to giving you more energy to go out more often.
Overall, we hope that these resolutions allow you get go out surfing more this year. To collect any surf items you need for your resolutions, contact us.
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Thursday, January 7, 2016

Surfboard Bags Versus Board Socks: Which One Should You Use?

For any surfer having a naked surfboard when traveling to your local spot--or making a national trip--can be dangerous for your surfboard. That's why there's a diversity in Surfboard Bags and board socks out there for your particular board's size and shape. But what's the difference between the two, and which one should you buy? Here's the run-down on which one will suit your surfing needs.

Bag and Sock Defined
You'll easy notice the difference between a surfboard bag and a surfboard sock. The sock is what it sounds like: a snug, knit fit that covers your board, just like a sock to your foot. A bag allows for your board to be carried with thicker padding and protection.

Advantages to Surfboard Socks
A surfboard sock is a great, cheaper alternative to a surfboard bag when you use your board frequently. The sock will protect a board from getting scratches and dings, and a quality surfboard sock will provide UV protection. It's easy to slip on and off as well. If you're constantly using your board and taking it to and from your local spot, it's the most basic protection you can give your board. Though it doesn't provide heavy-duty protection as a bag would do, it's nice to have on-hand if you don't have other options.
Look for socks that are made from tough materials like high-quality acrylic, and provide padded nosing for your board, like this DaKine Knit Bag Thruster. The padded nose can go a long way in protecting your board. 

Advantages to Surfboard Bags
Surfboard bags provide greater protection to your board than a surfboard sock. The bags have thicker layers for protection from big dings and also from temperature changes, so if you plan on traveling for an extended period of time, you'll want a quality surfboard bag that can handle the journey. In addition, unlike socks, bags usually have a strap for carrying your board with more ease, and many include small pockets to carry other pieces of equipment with ease (such as fins, wax, ties and leashes).

There's two categories to surfboard bags: day bags and travel bags (or coffins). The day bags provide greater protection than a sock and are great for frequent use, while a travel bag is made for the ultimate protection of your board, especially if you're flying with it. Coffins are bigger bags that can also hold multiple surfboards at a time, so it's perfect for all types of travel.

Getting a sock should be considered as a basic necessity for protecting your board, while a bag takes it a step further. For more help picking and choosing a sock or bag, contact us. We can help you find the right size and options for your surfing profile.
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