Last Updated on May 11, 2022 by
People can enjoy many water sports as long as they have all the equipment and experience required. For those who enjoy hitting the waves, there are plenty of water sports where they can try their hand, including surfing. Surfing is a challenging sport that requires a lot of dedication and effort to get up and ride. It’s not by coincidence that so many people love it. Surfers tend to spend plenty of time in the sun naturally, and they wear t-shirts while competing or surfing to ensure hot board wax and skin damage due to the sun doesn’t slow them down.
The sport requires a fair amount of skill and dedication, and those who love it are willing to do everything to learn and practice. The sport can be dangerous, and you need to be in great shape even to attempt to ride a wave.
Moreover, the sport isn’t cheap; you’ll need to buy a wetsuit, surfboard, wetsuit wax, and other supplies to get started, and it’s not something you can do just on weekends. If you’re ready to embark on your journey into the world of surfing but aren’t sure how to start, this article will kickstart your adventure.
Rash Guards vs. T-shirts: Which Is Better?
Surfing is a sport that can get you into some serious trouble if you’re not prepared for it. For a long time, most people in the water will eventually get some rash or other skin infection from being exposed to too much saltwater.
Sports shirts can also be very different from rash guards. Manufactures design sports shirts intending to help athletes avoid injuries, while others provide extra warmth and protection against sunburns, much like a basic swim shirt.
Rapid impact with surface water and waves cause skin irritation, but rash guards help to prevent the irritation.
Consider your hobbies if you are unsure which of these two scenarios is most appropriate for your lifestyle or what kind of designs appeal to you. Sports shirts tend to be lighter than their counterparts but still function similarly in keeping one safe from sun damage during outdoor activities such as surfing or snowboarding.
A t-shirt feels more comfortable when worn because it does not restrict movement on the neck and armpits due to how loose they become, unlike a rash guard that causes pain if worn too tightly over an extended period.
Comprehension garments help support muscles and increase blood flow, improving performance. Comprehension shirts for competitive surfing are nearly always skin-tight. In contrast, rash guards can have a more relaxed fit, so they’re usually better suited to protect the skin from sun, sand, or even surfboards rather than supporting a sports performance.
For people not interested in competing in pro-level sports like surfing or swimming, where comparison is essential, swim shirts generally offer more comfort than rash guards. They don’t have as much comprehension woven around them that would create pinching sensations on the body when clothes get wet during physical activity.
6 Crucial Surfing Tips
1. Learn the Basics before You Go Too Far
Before you head out into the ocean and start surfing, you’ll need to learn the basics. Learning the basics allows you to get used to the water feel, water movement, and the board before you’re out on your board. Learn the skill of standing up on a board, balance, and build strength and stamina by paddling around in the shallows.
Before you go out on your board for the first time, make sure you’re paddling around with an instructor. This way, you’ll get used to getting up on a board, paddling around, and getting used to the feel of the water without risking any severe injuries.
You’ll want to know where the waves are consistent. You’ll also want to get some basic surfing skills and theory. You’ll know a lot more once you get on board and start surfing, although you need to start with some fundamentals that will help you feel for the sport and make you confident.
One of the best ways to learn the basics is through private lessons from a skilled instructor. These lessons will help you learn how to surf safely and get caught up on the basics in a safe way for you and convenient for your instructor.
2. Buy a Good Board and Wetsuit
Suppose you choose to give surfing a try; you’ll need to buy a surfboard and wetsuit to get started. While you can rent a board and wetsuit from a facility, you’ll likely rent them often over your learning course. Since they’re so pricey, it is better to purchase than rent.
Choosing from a wide range of boards and wetsuits, you can plan what to do in the water depending on your skill level. If you’re starting, choose a lightweight board that’s easier to maneuver in the water.
As you get comfortable, you can choose to upgrade to a heavier board, which allows you to travel further and catch more giant waves.
Suppose you plan to surf in cold water; consider investing in a wetsuit. Choose a full-body wetsuit or purchase arms and legs separately.
3. Stay Hydrated
Remember, it is essential to stay hydrated when surfing. The sport is challenging and leaves you feeling overheated, especially if you don’t wear a wetsuit. Ensure to stay hydrated during your surfing sessions. Do this by bringing along a water bottle, drinking water during your session, or investing in a hydration pack wearable on your back. Another way to stay hydrated is by drinking lots of water before you head out to the beach.
4. Surfing Requires Lots of Physical Fitness
Another challenge with surfing is that it’s a physically challenging sport. It would be best to be in great shape, physically strong, and fit to surf. You can’t show up at the beach and start surfing without heading out to the water.
You’ll also need to properly stretch before heading out to surf and make sure you have a wetsuit that fits your body type. It will help you stay safe in the water and prevent any rash injuries.
5. Don’t Try to Take on Waves You Can’t Overcome
In addition to being a physically challenging sport, surfing is dangerous. Even experienced surfers get injured if they aren’t careful. It is essential to stay safe and not try to take on waves that you can’t safely get on.
Ensure to try to respect the ocean and the environment. Don’t throw garbage into the water, don’t litter, and don’t do anything that will negatively impact the ocean and those who love to use it.
6. Ensure You Have Insurance
Ensure to have insurance before hitting the water. It is important because the moment something happens while surfing, you want to ensure you get help and get out safely. For example, if you’re surfing and get into a rip current and get pulled out to sea, you’ll want to ensure you have someone to help you back out.
There are plenty of things that can go wrong, so you need to be prepared. You should have insurance in place for your activities, and it will protect you if something happens and helps you get out without spending a fortune on a claim.
