🌊 Welcome to Summer Vibes – Beginner Surf Hub
Not sure what to buy? Start here with our easy starter guide for each surf category.
Surf Hardware and Accessories
🔗 Surf Leashes – How to Choose
📏 Match Leash to Board
| Board Size | Leash Size | Best Match Product | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6’0” | 6’0” leash | 6’0” leash | Great for groms and shorter boards |
| 7’0” | 7’0” leash | 7’0” leash | For funboards & mid-lengths |
| 8’0” | 8’0” leash | 8’0” leash | Ideal for longer funboards |
| 9’0” | 9’0” leash | 9’0” leash | Best for longboards |
✅ Best for Beginners: Padded ankle cuff | Double swivel
❌ Avoid coiled leashes – not for surfing
🧼 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
🦶 Beginner’s 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 — especially when you’re learning to turn or pop up.
📏 What Size Traction Pad Do I Need?
| Board Type | Recommended Pad | Best Match Product | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shortboards (under 7’0”) | 3-piece or 5-piece pad | Shortboard tail pad | Look for a kick tail & arch bar |
| Fish (swallow tail, < 7’0”) | 3-piece fish pad | Fish-specific tail pad | Kick tail + reduced arch bar |
| Funboards (7’0”–8’0”) | 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 |
✅ Top Tips for Beginners
- 🧽 Clean your board thoroughly before applying (no wax, no dust)
- 📏 Align with the stringer (centre of the board)
- 🦶 Place it above the fins — not too far forward
- ⏱ Wait a few hours before surfing to allow the adhesive to set
🔧 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
💡 Bonus Tip: Full Grip = Wax-free Confidence
Want more traction? Add a front pad for full coverage — perfect for hot climates or high-performance surfing.
💬 Need Help Choosing?
Live Chat or call us for expert advice from local Aussie surfers.
