๐ Welcome to Summer Vibes โ Beginner Surf Hub
Not sure what to buy? Start here with our easy starter guide for each surf category.
Surf Hardware and Accessories
๐ Surf Leashes โ How to Choose
๐ Match Leash to Board
| Board Size | Leash Size | Best Match Product | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6โ0โ | 6โ0โ leash | 6โ0โ leash | Great for groms and shorter boards |
| 7โ0โ | 7โ0โ leash | 7โ0โ leash | For funboards & mid-lengths |
| 8โ0โ | 8โ0โ leash | 8โ0โ leash | Ideal for longer funboards |
| 9โ0โ | 9โ0โ leash | 9โ0โ leash | Best for longboards |
โ ย Best for Beginners: Padded ankle cuff | Double swivel
โ Avoid coiled leashes โ not for surfing
๐งผ Care Tips
- Rinse boards and leashes in fresh water after use
- Store out of direct sunlight
- Check leash regularly for nicks or worn Velcro and replace if damaged
๐ฆถ Beginnerโs Guide to Surfboard Deck Grips & Traction Pads
Struggling to keep your back foot in place while surfing? A traction pad might be exactly what you need.
Whether you're riding a softboard, funboard, or shortboard, deck grips add comfort, control, and confidence โ especially when youโre learning to turn or pop up.
๐ What Size Traction Pad Do I Need?
| Board Type | Recommended Pad | Best Match Product | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shortboards (under 7โ0โ) | 3-piece or 5-piece pad | Shortboard tail pad | Look for a kick tail & arch bar |
| Fish (swallow tail, < 7โ0โ) | 3-piece fish pad | Fish-specific tail pad | Kick tail + reduced arch bar |
| Funboards (7โ0โโ8โ0โ) | 3-piece or 5-piece pad | 3-piece or 5-piece pad (add front pad if needed) | Flatter arch for frequent foot movement |
| Softboards | Optional (softboard texture is naturally grippy) | Any pad (optional) | Nice for extra control; not essential |
โ Top Tips for Beginners
- ๐งฝ Clean your board thoroughly before applying (no wax, no dust)
- ๐ Align with the stringer (centre of the board)
- ๐ฆถ Place it above the fins โ not too far forward
- โฑ Wait a few hours before surfing to allow the adhesive to set
๐ง How to Apply a Traction Pad (Quick Steps)
- Clean the surface (remove all wax)
- Lay out the pieces to match your stance
- Peel and stick, pressing out air bubbles
- Press firmly, then let it cure
๐ก Bonus Tip: Full Grip = Wax-free Confidence
Want more traction? Add a front pad for full coverage โ perfect for hot climates or high-performance surfing.
๐ฌ Need Help Choosing?
Live Chat or call us for expert advice from local Aussie surfers.
