The Surf Leash
Your lifesaver when surfing
The leash is one of the most important parts of the surfboard. You don’t need it directly for surfing (you could surf without a leash). Nevertheless, it often “saves” lives.
The leash provides the connection between the surfer and his surfboard. In other words, if you fall, the board stays with you and is not washed up on the beach. One side is attached to the leash plug at the back of the board, the other side is attached to your ankle with Velcro (on the right or left leg, depending on your standing position).
THE MATERIAL
Most leashes are made of polyethylene. It is very durable and elastic and thus perfectly dampens the forces that occur between the board and the leg during a wash.
THE LENGTH OF THE LEASH
There are different leashes for each board type! It should always be slightly longer than your board – simply for the reason that it keeps you at a safe distance from the surfboard during a wash.
THE ATTACHMENT TO THE BOARD
The leash is attached to the leash plug with a tear-resistant plastic cord. The end of the leash is attached to this loop with a Velcro fastener (called the rail protector). Always make sure that the plastic cord never goes beyond the rail, otherwise it will cut into the board if it is heavily loaded.
THE FASTENING TO THE LEG
The leash is always attached to the back ankle, so that the leash points outwards so that you do not hinder yourself.
ALWAYS CHECK YOUR LEASH
The leash ensures your safety, and is your lifesaver. Therefore, it is important to always check the leash before surfing! Because with the board you always have a ‘life raft’ close by to keep you afloat in case of exhaustion. So always look for cracks, wear spots and change the leash if necessary!