SOFTBOARD
A softboard must have the following:
- A soft foam core, foam rails, a durable plastic bottom, and soft, flexible fins
- Sufficient length and buoyancy to help quickly catch waves and provide a sturdy base to develop surfing skills
- Soft foam around the rails, nose, and tail. The softboard foam absorbs the force of the board upon impact, preventing serious injury.
Softboards modified with hand grab straps may be used as a rescue board or assist surfers with special needs to participate in safe surfing.
WETSUIT
Beginner surfers are required to wear wetsuits during winter surf lessons.
Wetsuit Functions:
- Keeps the surfer warm
- Limits sunburn
- Protects the surfer from minor cuts and abrasions
- Provides buoyancy
During winter surf lessons, beginner surfers can complete the paddle, swim, and treading water tests while wearing their wetsuits.
Wetsuit Recommendations
- A wetsuit needs to be a tight but comfortable fit.
- Cold conditions will require thicker wetsuits.
- Wear a rash shirt (rash guard/rashie) under the wetsuit to protect from chafing on the neck
The “Shorty Wetsuit” offers beginner surfers more freedom of movement than the “Full Wetsuit.”
Examples:
Olaian 100, 1.5 mm Neoprene Surfing Shorty Wetsuit
Olaian 100, 2/2 Full Neoprene Wetsuit
