Best Gear for Beginners
The short version of every gear guide on the site, in the order you should think about it. If you are heading to a camp first, rent there and buy afterwards.
Some links on this page are affiliate links, including Amazon. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Our picks are based on research and specs, not paid placement.
- 1
Start by understanding board size
Volume matters more than anything else. Ten minutes here stops you buying a board that is too small.
Read: How to Choose Your First Surfboard: Volume, Size, Soft-Top vs Hard - 2
The board
An 8-foot soft-top for most adults. Forgiving, buoyant and hard to damage.
Read: Best Beginner Surfboards 2026: Soft-Tops Worth BuyingBudget first boardWavestorm 8' Classic Soft-Top
Check Price - 3
The wetsuit
A 3/2mm full suit covers most European surfing from spring to autumn. Fit comes before brand.
Read: Best Wetsuits for Beginners & Intermediate Surfers (With Thickness Guide)Best valueO'Neill Epic Full Suit
Check Price - 4
The leash
Straight, regular thickness and the same length as your board.
Read: Best Surfboard Leashes: Straight vs Coiled, and What Length to BuyTough option for bigger boardsCreatures of Leisure Reliance Leash
Check Price - 5
Wax and the small stuff
Wax for your water temperature, a comb, and sunscreen that stays on.
Read: Best Surf Wax & Accessories: The Small Stuff That MattersAll-round waxSticky Bumps Original Surf Wax
Check Price - 6
Warm-water kit
Heading to the tropics? A long-sleeve rash guard replaces the wetsuit, and reef booties protect your feet.
Read: Best Rash Guards and Water Shoes for SurfingSimple UPF 50+ rash guardO'Neill Basic Skins Long Sleeve Rash Guard
Check Price - 7
The full checklist
Everything above in buying order, plus the nice-to-haves, on one page.
Read: Beginner Surf Setup Checklist: Board, Wetsuit, Leash, Wax & Extras - 8
Packing for Portugal
Cold Atlantic water under warm sun. What to pack by season.
Read: What Surf Gear to Pack for Portugal - 9
Packing for Bali
No wetsuit needed, but plan for sun and reef.
Read: What Surf Gear to Pack for BaliWarm-water reef protectionO'Neill Reactor-2 2mm Reef Booties
Check Price - 10
Not bought anything yet? Good.
A week at a beginner camp lets you try different boards and wetsuits before spending money on your own.
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The best destination for every month, plus a beginner packing checklist by water temperature.