The surf leash, an essential for your sessions
We recently talked to you about the aspects you should consider when choosing the leash for your board . Today we want to talk about 6 things you should know about the Leash. An essential safety element for your surf sessions.
The leash or leash is nothing more than a plastic cord that connects the board to the surfer’s foot. It is made up of a long tube of great strength and with a slight elasticity. It is attached to the back of the board with a small cord and to the surfer’s ankle or knee through an adjustable handle with velcro (quick-release).
1.- Put it on dry, not wet. There is a difference.
Put on the leash before entering the water. This way, you will ensure its maximum performance . It’s not that wet doesn’t work. However, being dry when putting it on guarantees its perfect adaptation to our ankle and its greater strength.
2.- How often should I change my leash?
Unlike food, surf leashes do not come with a specific expiration date. However, over time and with use, your leash will lose effectiveness .
One of the most important aspects in determining the lifespan of this element is its elasticity.
Too little elasticity will cause the leash to be prone to breaking or to pull your leg off in one of those wipeouts. Conversely, too much elasticity is also not good. You will take much longer to retrieve your board, and it will be easier for it to hit you.
If you are one of those surfers who love big waves, it is advisable to change the leash at the end of each session. If, on the other hand, you usually surf beach waves, the leash can easily last you 3 – 4 years. Of course, as long as you take proper care of your equipment.
3.- Basic care for a leash
If you want your leash to last longer , we are going to give you a couple of basic tips. Just like with wetsuits , the leash should be rinsed with fresh water after each session. Also, you should not leave it wrapped around the surfboard for long periods of time, as this will cause the leash to develop a kink and easily tangle when we go to use it. And finally, do not leave it exposed to the sun for long hours.
Of course, you have to check the condition of the cord before entering the water and always have a spare one.
4.- The most fragile part of the leash
Contrary to what you might think, the most fragile part of the leash is not the actual cord. It is the rubber piece located at the no es la propia cuerda. Si no la pieza de caucho situada en la end of the leash. Usually, when a leash breaks, it tends to do so in this area. Except in cases where the breakage is due to hitting a fin.
Fragile Part of the Surf Leash
5.- Do not wrap the leash around the tail of the board.
When storing your board, it is common to wrap the leash around the tail of the board. A practice that helps prevent dragging and takes up less space (especially in those sock covers). However, the leash , as we mentioned in point 3, may tend to develop a kink. Additionally, it will weaken over time. And it may become difficult to keep it straight when putting it on.
6.- Brands do matter.
Obviously, each brand tries to show that their leash is the most durable and resilient in the market. However, there are significant price differences between the cheapest and the most expensive. And this is no coincidence. Check the quality of the leash , the construction quality, and do not hesitate to ask your friends about the brand’s reputation. As for designs and colors, that is a personal matter.
7.- How to properly attach the cord that connects the leash to the board
Most of the damage done to the tail of the board is due to a bad placement of the leash. Placing the leash to avoid damaging the tail of your board is very easy to do, but it is of great importance for the good preservation of your board.
First, the cord should not be too long, that is, the tail of the board should not be in contact with the cord, but with the rail saver of the leash. Because, in the normal course in the water when we fall and the leash tightens, the area in contact with the tail should be as large as possible. The images clearly show how to do it.
If you are thinking of changing the leash of your surfboard , visit the website of our Partners Single Quiver and choose the one that best suits your surfboard from their carefully curated selection of premium quality leashes.