Thursday, October 20, 2016

5 Signs that it is Time to Replace your Surfboard Leash

At one time, the idea of using a surfboard leashes seemed foolish. That’s no longer the case, as serious surfers everywhere recognize the importance of having one. Even the best surfboard leash will not last forever, which is why you should recognize these signs that indicate it is time to replace yours.

#1. You are changing to a longer or shorter board
The length of your surfboard leash is largely dependent upon the length of your board. As such, if you switch to a longer or shorter board, you’ll also need a different surfboard leash.

#2. Your swivels no longer operate properly
Swivels that operate properly are essential if you are to avoid having your feet get tangled up with your leash. If your swivels are damaged, rusty, or do not move as they are supposed to, replacing your leash is required in order to ensure your safety.

#3. The leash cuff is damaged
Over time, your leash cuff may suffer damage due to pounding waves and excessive salt buildup. This cuff may not stay securely on your ankle if it becomes ripped or frayed, in which case buying a replacement leash becomes necessary.

#4. The rail saver is inadequate
A rail saver provides protection for your board to prevent damage. If this component’s cushioning has worn down, you might notice problems with the rail area of your surfboard’s tail. Thicker rail savers provide better protection, and are therefore recommended for serious surfers.

#5. Your Leash is not the Right Thickness
Thicker leashes provide more drag, yet are recommended for surfing very heavy waves. Thinner ones on the other hand produce less drag, and are better for surfing smaller waves. You may need to replace or change out your leash if its thickness is not compatible with the type of waves you normally surf.

In addition to these factors, you should also replace your leash any time you notice a change in its performance. For help with finding the right surfboard leashes, please contact us.

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Thursday, October 13, 2016

Tips for Taking Proper Care of your Boardshorts

Boardshorts are designed to perform a very specific function, while at the same time being attractive and comfortable to wear. How long your shorts last and how nicely they perform all depend on how well you take care of them. If you want to get the most of your boardshorts, you’ll want to keep the following things in mind.

After Swimming or Surfing
As soon as you are finished swimming or surfing, change into a dry pair of regular shorts whenever possible. Next, rinse your boardshorts off lightly with fresh, cool water to remove any sand, debris, salt, or chemicals from pool water. After rinsing, hang them over top of a shower rod and allow the shorts to drip dry. In the event that isn’t possible, choose another spot out of direct sunlight to ensure they do not fade.

Washing and Drying
When it comes time to wash and dry your boardshorts, it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Some boardshorts can be washed in a washing machine on delicate setting, while others are designed to be hand washed only. Regardless of the method you use, keep these things in mind:
  • Turn shorts inside out to minimize fading
  • Wash in cold or cool water only, never warm or hot
  • Use mild, biodegradable detergent
  • Hang to dry on a thick plastic or wooden hanger out of direct sunlight
  • Ensure your shorts are completely dry before wearing them again
Most boardshorts are not designed to be placed in the dryer, nor is ironing recommended. If you need to knock a few wrinkles out of your shorts, place them in a dryer for just a few minutes, using the lowest heat setting possible.
The above tips will not only keep your boardshorts looking like new, but they will also ensure they maintain their form for some time to come. For more ways to care for your boardshorts, please contact us.
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Thursday, October 6, 2016

Things to Look for when Buying Used Surfboards

Maybe you’re a beginning surfer who isn’t quite sure which board is best. Perhaps you have a bit more experience, but are operating on a limited equipment budget. Either way, used surfboards are a great option, provided you keep these things in mind.

Giving a Once-Over
Begin your inspection by cleaning any wax from the board. This will allow you to inspect it more thoroughly, ensuring that any problems are fully visible. If the seller will not let you clean the board first, this could indicate there is something to hide and you should begin looking elsewhere.

After cleaning the board, check it over very carefully, looking for discolored foam or signs of water damage. Check for delamination, which occurs when the fiberglass separates from the blank. If delamination occurs over a small area, this is easily reparable; however, larger areas are difficult to fix and increase the odds of a board breaking.

Dings and Dents
Nearly all used surfboards will have some type of ding or dent. Even so, too many defects are problematic, so you should avoid boards that are heavily dented or dinged. Just because an owner has made repairs doesn’t mean the board is good to go, as a poor fix has the potential to trap water. As such, you should carefully inspect repairs to ensure that:
  • They are flush with the board
  • No rough or uneven spots are present
  • There are no cracks
  • The spot is not yellowed, indicating water damage
Pass up any boards with cracks or dings on the rail of the tail. This is a problem known as “tail cancer”, a condition that is nearly impossible to fix permanently because it tends to recur just a short time later.

Check for Buckles
Using the palm of your hand, press on the center of your board to check for bubbles on the stringer. This could indicate that the blank or stringer is cracked, something that requires major repairs.

Inspect the Fins
Inspect the area where the fins are attached to the board very carefully. Pass up any boards with non-removable fins that appear to be cracking.

These things will help you save money and obtain a great deal on a used surfboard. To find out more, please contact us.

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