What are the different types of surfboard leashes?
When you are thinking of buying a surf leash you will come many different types of surfboard leashes of varying lengths and thicknesses. Let’s take a look at what each type of surfboard leash is used for.
The Regular Leash
A regular surfboard leash is designed for the everyday surfer who will be surfing medium size waves. These surf leashes are made of durable, solid urethane and are typically 6 feet in length and about ¼ inch thick.
The Competition Leash
A competition surfboard leash is thinner and lighter than a regular surf leash. These surfboard leashes are used in surfing contests and riding smaller waves as they reduce the drag caused by the leash hanging off the tail of the surfboard in the water. These surf leashes therefore will not slow down or hinder the performance of the surfer.
Competition leashes are typically 5 to 6 feet long and 3/16 inches thick.
The Super Lite Leash
Many surfboard accessory companies offer a line of super lite surfboard leashes. These are the lightest surfboard leashes available on the market and are designed to feel as though you don’t even have a leash on.
A common different between the super lite leash and a regular surf leash is that the surfboard cord is made of a “hollow” urethane in order to reduce its weight. These surfboard leashes are therefore great for the groms and lighter smaller surfboards but are more prone to snap in big surf.
You can find super lite surfboard leashes anywhere from 6 to 8 feet in length and they are usually ¼ inches thick.
The Big Wave Leash
A surfboard leash designed for surfing big waves will be much thicker and stronger than a regular surfboard leash. This is to help withstand the strong force of large waves.
Big wave surfboard leashes are usually made of solid urethane just like a regular surfboard leash but are between 7 to 12 feet long and up to 5/16 inches thick. Many big wave leashes also feature a quick release pin that allows the surfer to detach the surfboard leash and surfboard from his leg when caught in a dangerous situation.
The Longboard Leash
The longboard leash is much longer and thicker than a regular surfboard leash. This is necessary because a longboard is much heavier than a shortboard and will therefore exert a stronger force on your surf leash.
This type of surfboard leash comes in two different types, as a calf leash or ankle leash. As the names imply the calf longboard leash is attached to the calf of your leg while the ankle longboard leash is attached just above the ankle.
A longboard surfboard leash is typical between 7 to 10 feet long and ¼ inches thick.
What is A Surfboard Leash Made Of And What Is The Purpose Of Its Different Parts?
Most surfboard leashes are made of strong urethane and come with a leash string, rail saver, swivels, cord and cuff.
What is A Surfboard Leash And Why Do You Need One?
A surfboard leash is a very important surf accessory which every surfer needs to have in the lineup.
