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.