How to Choose a Surfboard Leash

A surf leash should provide durability, comfort, and functionality, allowing you to spend more time catching waves and less time worrying about your equipment. 

The key factors to consider when purchasing a surf leash include its length, thickness, and attachment features such as the swivel and cuff. The ideal leash length should be roughly equal to the length of your surfboard, while a thicker leash offers greater strength and durability, suitable for larger waves and rougher surf conditions.

Over the years our team has purchased (or tested if you want to be fancy) a variety of surf leashes to identify the ones that meet the highest standards of reliability, comfort, and performance. 

In this article, I’ll help you make an informed decision and find the perfect leash to elevate your surfing experience.

Surfboard Leash Buying Guide

Length

When choosing the best surf leash, the first thing to consider is the length. Make sure the leash matches the length of your surfboard. A general rule of thumb is that the leash should be at least as long as your surfboard is tall. Here are some examples:

• Shortboard (under 6') - Use a 6' leash

• Longboard (9' - 12') - Use a leash between 9' and 12'

Thickness

Another essential factor to consider is the thickness of the leash. Thicker leashes will generally last longer and be more durable. However, they can add a bit of extra weight to your setup. There are three common thickness options:

• Standard (7mm) - These are suitable for most surf conditions and provide a good balance of durability and weight.

• Comp (6mm) - A lighter option, perfect for smaller waves and competitive surfing.

• Big Wave (8mm) - If you're surfing in larger waves or heavy conditions, a thicker leash will provide added security.

Swivel Type

A good surf leash will also have swivels to prevent tangling. There are two basic types of swivels:

• Single Swivel - These leashes have one swivel, usually located near your ankle. They reduce the likelihood of leash tangling but may not be as effective as double swivels.

• Double Swivel - These leashes have swivels at both ends, significantly cutting down on tangles and making the leash more comfortable to wear.

Cuff Type

The cuff is the part that attaches to your ankle. There are two primary cuff styles:

• Ankle Strap - This is the most common cuff type and typically has a comfortable, adjustable neoprene strap.

• Calf Strap - Preferred by some longboarders as it allows for more freedom of movement and reduces tangling when walking on the board.

Consider these features carefully to find the best surf leash for your needs. With the right leash, you'll spend less time untangling and more time enjoying the waves.

Why trust our leash recommendations?

In short, because we surf. A lot. Incidentally, we are always wearing a leash. We’ve tried the different technologies, bought tried and true brands and some cheapo off-brands, have snapped leashes, have borrowed friends leashes, and have gotten injured by having the wrong leash.

Our team is comprised of surfers with varying levels of experience who have spent significant time in the water, putting leashes to the test in various conditions- weak and mushy to heavy and powerful. 

To guarantee the quality of our recommendations, we have thoroughly examined the following aspects of each leash:

• Durability: We have assessed the leashes under various conditions to ensure they can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
  

• Comfort: We have considered the fit and feel of each leash on the ankle, paying special attention to the cuff and rail saver.
  

• Strength: Our team examined the leash's strength by evaluating the material and construction, ensuring it can handle the forces exerted during heavy conditions where leash integrity is of upmost importance.

While our recommendations are based on thorough research and testing, we always encourage you to consider your personal preferences and needs in order to find the best surf leash for you. Ultimately, our goal is to provide reliable and useful information to help you make an informed decision, so you can safely enjoy your time in the water.

Surfboard Leash FAQ

What size surfboard leash do I need?

The length of your surfboard leash should generally correspond to the length of your surfboard. For example, if you have a 6-foot surfboard, you should look for a 6-foot leash. A general rule of thumb is to add 1-foot extra to your surfboard's length, which will ensure that the leash doesn't limit your movement while still keeping your board close.

How to tie a surf leash?

Attaching your surf leash to your surfboard is a simple process. To begin, locate the leash plug on your surfboard and thread the leash string or cord through it. Next, create a loop with the string/cord and pull the rail saver (the padded section of the leash) through the loop. Finally, pull the rail saver tight, ensuring it is snug against the leash plug.

How thick of a leash should I get?

Thickness of a surfboard leash depends on factors like your surfing ability and the size of the waves you'll be riding. Here's a simple guide:

• 1/4 inch (6.35mm): Suitable for small waves and light conditions

• 5/16 inch (7.94mm): Ideal for medium-sized waves and intermediate surfers

• 3/8 inch (9.53mm): Designed for larger waves and experienced surfers

Remember that thicker leashes offer greater strength and durability, but they can also create more drag in the water.

When should I replace my existing leash?

Leashes certainly don’t last forever, and considering how important they are for safety, should be replaced once they start to get too old. Some signs that you may want replace your leash are:

• Your existing leash is stretched way beyond its original length

• The leash feels floppy off the cuff instead of taut and secure 

• If you’ve used it consistently over the course of a year

In conclusion, it's essential to choose the correct-sized and thickness of a surfboard leash to ensure both safety and comfort while you ride those waves. By following the guidelines above, you should be well on your way to making the right choice for your surfing needs.