Winter is a time when the waves are often bigger and the surf spots less crowded. However, lower temperatures mean you need the right equipment to make the most of your surf sessions. In this article, you'll find out what equipment you need to surf in winter: wetsuits, boots, balaclavas, gloves and other accessories.
To tackle cold winter waters, it's essential to choose a full-body neoprene wetsuit, which covers the entire body. The wetsuit's thickness will depend on the water temperature and should be chosen accordingly. Here are some examples of the thicknesses recommended for different temperatures :
Don't hesitate to opt for a wetsuit with reinforced knees for extra resistance and comfort during your surf sessions.
As feet are particularly sensitive to the cold, it's important to protect them in winter. Neoprene surf boots keep your feet warm and provide good board grip. They come in different thicknesses, generally between 3 - 5mm.
When choosing your surf boots, make sure they fit properly to prevent water getting in, and go for designs with reinforced soles for extra durability. Some boots are also fitted with straps or laces for better foot support.
The balaclava is an essential accessory for protecting yourself from the cold when surfing in winter. It keeps your head warm and limits loss of body heat. The balaclava must be made of neoprene and should be snug enough so as not to let any water in.
There are several types of balaclava suitable for winter surfing :
Hands are also very exposed to the cold during winter surf sessions. To protect them, we recommend using special neoprene gloves. They keep your hands warm while providing a good grip and an optimum hold on the board.
As with your boots, make sure you choose gloves that fit snugly and select a thickness suited to the weather conditions. Gloves come in different thicknesses, generally between 2 - 5 mm.
In addition to the above-mentioned equipment, here are a few other accessories that may be useful when tackling cold waters :
Don't forget that your choice of winter surf equipment is essential to ensuring your comfort and safety in the water. Don't hesitate to invest in quality equipment that will allow you to enjoy your surf sessions to the full despite the low temperatures.
How do you choose your wetsuit based on the water temperature ?
© 2024 Volcom United Kingdom. All Rights Reserved.
