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Kit
Surfboard
Obviously. Read A Guide to Boards to learn about the best boards to learn on.
Wetsuit
Wetsuits are almost always necessary in the UK, unfortunately. They come in a variety of thicknesses and qualities and a good one is not particularly cheap, but when you realise you’re paying for a technical, highly developed piece of kit which can make it possible to surf in icy water it suddenly becomes worth it. And if you look after your wetsuit it will last for ages. See A Guide to Wetsuits for more information
Leash
The leash is a long, plastic cord which joins you to your board. One end attaches firmly to the back of your board and stays there, and the other end should be velcroed securely around your back ankle every time you enter the water. A leash is vital when you are learning, for your own safety as it stops you and your board becoming separated, and for the safety of others as it prevents your board shooting off and spearing children in the head.
Wax
With the exception of Softdecks, surfboards are shiny on top and very slippery when wet. This doesn’t help you stay aboard, so you need to rub a layer of wax onto the top of the board (only the top – never the bottom) to give yourself some grip. The feeling of waxing up a shiny new surfboard is one of the great pleasures in life – allow people to give you advice but never let them do it for you!
You will need to rub a small amount of wax on your board pretty much every time you go out in the water; a better alternative is to grab yourself a wax comb and use this to scuff up the wax already there.
You don’t need to splash out on expensive gear straight away if you don’t want to – most surf spots in the UK have shops where you can hire a learner board and wetsuit, and the people in the shop will be able to advise on the right kit for you. If you want to know what you’re talking about, or you want to invest in a nice board of your own and a wetsuit someone else hasn’t peed in, read the A Guide to Boards and A Guide to Wetsuits. Whichever you decide, treat your equipment with respect and don’t drag your board down the beach – make sure the leash is securely fastened around the board and carry it tucked under your arm. If you can’t carry it, it’s too big.