BEST FOR COMFORT

Chances are you’ve listened to a kiteboarder rave about how much they love their Ride Engine harness. The harness is stiff and lightweight, which allows kiteboarders to stay in control without sacrificing comfort. The harness features lumbar lock technology, which keeps the harness glued to your lower back. With this harness, you won’t have to worry about it slipping, sliding, or riding up over the course of a session. The harness stays glued to where you most need it. To top things off, the harness is water-resistant and UV resistant. This harness is an all-around beast.

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

This harness is the most versatile on the list. It can be worn either as a waist harness or a seat harness, which beginner riders will enjoy. The harness will progress with your abilities. It’s also a very comfortable harness that can be adjusted to best fit the rider. It won’t wiggle around on your waist, especially when using the leg straps. Finally, the harness comes with a quick entry/ exit spreader bar buckle. If you’re purchasing your first harness, this one will give you a smooth introduction to the sport.

BEST FOR HYBRID RIDERS

Dakine is one of the most trusted brands among kiteboarders, especially because it was one of the original producers of kiteboarding harnesses. This harness is one of the items that the reputation was built upon. The Pyro offers ultimate responsiveness combined with a comfortable fit. While some harnesses wear over time, the Pyro’s memory foam core becomes more comfortable. The harness is a bit larger than others, which tall kiteboarders will prefer. It comes with a push-button hammerhead spreader bar, which can easily be replaced with the type of spreader bar you prefer. Simply put, the Pyro rocks.

BEST FOR ADVANCED RIDERS

The Bionic Core Frame is the technology that sets Mystic Majestic harnesses apart from the rest. The materials that the frame is made from are the lightest, yet most durable found on the market. The harness maintains its shape horizontally but flexes vertically. This results in comfortable, responsive riding. Another thing that makes this harness comfortable is the foam that lines the inside of the harness. It’s considered “intelligent” because of the way the harness molds to the shape of your body. This doesn’t just make the harness comfortable, it keeps it locked in place.

BEST FOR SAFETY

The ION Apex 10 allows for the weight load to be evenly distributed throughout the entire harness. Its stiff, preshaped center allows for the harness to sit comfortably without losing responsiveness. Even though the center is stiff, the sides of the harness are flexible. The harness adjusts well to powerful kiteboarders, especially those who generate their power from their core. One thing that makes this harness shine though is a built-in safety knife. In the event of an emergency, you’ll be able to detach yourself very quickly. Kiteboarders rave about this harness.

BEST FOR: CUSTOMIZABLE FIT

There are two unique features of this pair of bodyboarding fins. First, they have an adjustable strap. Bodyboarding fins break-in over time, which is why it’s recommended to buy a pair of fins that are a bit smaller than your street shoe size. These fins will allow you to err on the side of caution when purchasing. Second, the fins come with a built-in leash system. If the waves are pounding and they trip your fins off your feet, you won’t have to worry about chasing them far since they’ll stay attached to your body! These fins are unique, but they also perform well.

BEST FOR: DRAINAGE

Most fins on the market today have a drainage hole underneath the foot, which allows for sand to enter into the fin easier. The Dorsal Bodyboard fins are unique because they move the drainage hole to the toe of the fin. These fins are also made with a different material than the others – gum rubber. Some bodyboarders claim that they mold around the foot better than others. These fins will get you out to the waves and perform well for you once you get out there.

BEST FOR: BODYBOARDING LIFEGUARDS

The Dafin Black Swimfins are one of the oldest bodyboarding fins on the market. They’ve been used by bodyboarders since the very beginning of the sport. They also happen to be the only fins that are endorsed by The United States Lifesaving Organization. If you’re a lifeguard who catches waves between shifts, your boss will be happy to see you with these bad boys. They are also wider than other fins, helping them strike a balance between paddling speed and acceleration.

BEST FOR: SURFACE KICKS

Most fins try to strike a balance between performing on the waves and performing on the paddle out to the waves. This pair focuses primarily on performance on the wave. When you are trying to boost yourself, you’re going to be doing a lot of surface kicks. These fins were designed to do just that. Also, while most fins have one large drainage hole, these fins have three. If you’ve been disappointed with traditionally built fins, give these ones a shot.

BEST FOR: MAXIMUM SURFACE AREA

It seems as if different animals are the best way to describe the performance of fins. While others use terms like duck feet or dorsal fins, these fins compare themselves to a squid. Yes, you read that correctly. The fins really stick to the water, which allows them to generate a ton of power. These fins have extremely large sidewalls as well. This makes the fins extremely powerful and the top contender for best bodyboarding fins on the list.

BEST FOR QUICK ACCELERATION

These fins are the smallest on the list and have the most unique shape. Together they form a dolphin fin shape. This removes a lot of material on the insides of the fin, keeping them lightweight and giving them better accelerating abilities. The fit of these fins is flexible and they mold around the feet, but they also feature an extremely stiff toe to aid with acceleration. If all you care about is getting going as quickly as possible, these are the fins for you.

BEST FOR: DROP KNEE RIDING

The Hydro Tech 2 fins are a contender for the best fins on the list. What makes them stand out are two things — comfort and versatility. The foot box on these fins is shaped like a foot, which gives them a much more natural feel. It also allows for the force to be spread out to the entire foot, instead of just the toes. The fins are best for drop knee riders. Why? Well they are designed to avoid catching in the upright position. If you aren’t sure exactly which fins to purchase, give these a shot. You won’t be disappointed.

BEST FOR: PADDLING OUT

Even though these fins are considered the shorter version of Cressi fins, they are larger than others on the list. There are two main advantages to this. First, paddling out to catch waves is quicker and simpler. Second, the fins can be used for other water activities, such as snorkeling, SCUBA diving, and swimming.  

These fins aren’t as stiff as others on the list, which makes them easier to store. However, reviewers have complained that the fins tend to lose their stiffness over time. If you want an all-around pair of fins to use in the water, these are for you. If you want fins only for bodyboarding, consider another pair on the list.

BEST FOR: DEPENDABILITY

If you’ve been bodyboarding for a while, chances are you’ve heard of these legendary fins. The fins are called Duck Feet for a reason. With no structured foot box, the shape of the fins truly mimics that of a duck. The middle of the fin has a stiff ridge, which will keep you in control and also allow you to accelerate quickly. These fins strike a great balance between acceleration and paddling speed. They have a great reputation and you can be guaranteed that these fins will perform for you.

BEST FOR: STIFFNESS

If you need just a quick snap to catch a wave, consider these fins. They are much stiffer than other fins on the list. This makes them harder to paddle out to waves in but makes them extremely quick when trying to catch a wave. Because the fins are shorter than others, they are easier to ride drop knee. The fins are also tight-fitting and comfortable. Reviewers love these fins, and chances are you will, too.

BEST FOR PIVOT TURNS

Do you like to turn quick and sharp? If so, a C-shaped kite is best for you. These types of kites are more aggressive. You’ll be able to jump higher and perform more loops in the air because of the shape of the kite. That being said, C-kites require more precise conditions in order to perform at their highest potential. This kite from Slingshot stays true to the original shape of kiteboarding kites. If you’ve been kitesurfing on older models of kites, you’ll feel much more comfortable on the Slingshot Rally.

BEST FOR DURABILITY

If you’re new to kiteboarding, it can be intimidating to purchase a new kite because you’ll fear ripping it. Fortunately, NV has redesigned this kite to be extremely durable. The frame is layered many times over and is constructed with Triple Ripstop material. The main advantage of this kite is its adaptability. As a beginner, you can try a wide variety of riding styles to see what fits you best. This kite can handle all of those different types, making it a kite you’ll use for years to come.

BEST FOR LIGHT WIND DAYS

The Cabrinha is a much larger kite, which makes it ideal for days where the wind isn’t strong. Even though the kite is large, it feels much smaller because of how easy it is to control. Beginners will like this kite for a variety of reasons. First, relaunching is really smooth and simple. Second, the turns with this kite aren’t very aggressive. Third, because the kite is larger than most, you won’t be launched into the air in an uncontrollable way. If you want a versatile kite for light wind conditions, consider giving this one a shot.

BEST FOR LIGHTWEIGHT

The 2020 Liquid Force Solo was completely redesigned to make the kite lighter. This makes the kite much more forgiving and nimble in the air. It also will allow you to use the kite in lighter wind conditions. Reviewers rave about the control they have with this kite. The “sweet spot” of the kite is larger than most, which will keep your kite in the air and out of the water. Liquid Force is highly trusted by the kitesurfing community, and this kite builds upon that reputation.

BEST FOR BIG AIR

The Rebel is known as being one of the best kites out there for big air. When reviewers say that you’ll launch on this kite, they mean it. The kite will lift you, but return you to the water in a controllable way. Another highlight of this kite is its stability. The kite is built with 5 struts, which allows the kite to maintain stability in gusty wind conditions. Beginners will fall in love with the turning ability of the kite. If you’re just starting to get the hang of quick, sharp turns, this kite will allow for quick learning while remaining forgiving. If you’re a beginner who wants to get big air, this is a great option for you.

BEST FOR FREESTYLE RIDING

The Ocean Rodeo Jester is more suited to freestyle riding than any other board on this list. It’s short and light, feeling more like other types of kiteboarding boards. There are five different slots for fins. This will allow you to customize how you want your board to feel. You can pop into the air much easier and land comfortably due to its foam construction. Reviewers love the playfulness of this board, which is why freestyle riders will fall in love with it.

BEST FOR COMFORT

The Ocean Rodeo Duke is a great board for beginners. If you’re transitioning from other styles of kiteboarding to kitesurfing, this board is a great starting point. Its rounded construction is much more forgiving. Keep in mind that it may not be as easy to do quick, snap turns with this board. However, your turns will be much easier to control with this board as opposed to other boards on the list. The board is also thicker than others, which makes it very durable. Kitesurfers rave about the responsiveness of this board.

BEST FOR LIGHTWEIGHT PERFORMANCE

The construction of the Cabrinha S:Quad is really what sets it apart. It’s much lighter than other boards on the list, which allows you to twist, jump, and accelerate better than other boards on the list. Its pointed nose and round squash tail allow for sharp turns without losing control. The 4-fin configuration also helps the board maintain stability at high speeds. If you want a board that feels natural on the waves, check it out.

BEST FOR STABILITY

The Celero is a very reliable kitesurfing board. It will perform well in a wide range of conditions, especially in small, choppy waves. If you are transitioning from surfing to kitesurfing, this board will allow for a smooth transition. It has a classic surfboard construction, which makes for easy learning. Another great feature of the board is its pointed tail. This sort of tail is great for quick, sharp turns that kitesurfers love. At the end of the day, the Celero is a board that you will feel confident on.

BEST FOR BIG WAVES

The Tyrant is a kitesurfing board that people can’t stop raving about. The board was completely redesigned for 2020, making it more lightweight without sacrificing control. If you are going to be surfing in small, choppy waves, then the Celero (featured below) might be more for you. If you want to ride on some big, rolling waves, then look no further. This board will allow you to stay in control as you ride big waves. That being said, you will still be able to do quick, snap-like turns. Finally, this board is very durable. It may be the most expensive board on the list, but it will last for years.

BEST QUICK-DRYING WETSUIT

The Vissla 7 Seas is an all-around performer. To start, the wetsuit is constructed with a thermal lining. As temperatures drop, your body will generate more heat. This heat is then trapped by the thermal layer to keep you warm. 

The seams of this wetsuit keep excess water out due to the fact that they are double stitched, glued, and then taped over. The fabric of this wetsuit is also unique. Most wetsuits on the list are made with neoprene, but this wetsuit was made with nylon as well. This helps the wetsuit dry quicker than most, but also makes it very flexible and comfortable. To top things off, a front entry zipper makes the wetsuit easy to take on and off.

BEST FOR COMFORTABLE WARM WATER SURFING

If you are planning to surf in warm water, you may prefer a short-sleeved wetsuit like this one. This wetsuit was designed to fit the body better than others. The anatomical design will hug your body, which will prevent chafing underneath the arms and other sensitive areas. 

The flatlock seams of the wetsuit are more flexible than blindstitched seams, even though they won’t keep water out as well. That being said, you won’t need to worry as much about keeping cold water out of your suit because you’ll be surfing in warmer conditions. If you want a short-sleeved wetsuit that is comfortable and affordable, this wetsuit is for you.

BEST SHORT SLEEVED WETSUIT

If you consistently surf in warm water, this is the wetsuit for you. It’s a short sleeved wetsuit, which means the sleeves stop before the elbows and the legs stop right above the knee. However, it also features UV protection that keeps your skin safe in direct sunlight. 

Spandex is used in the construction of this wetsuit, which makes it very comfortable and flexible. This may be one of the most mobile wetsuits on the list. With this wetsuit, seams were removed from areas that are traditionally prone to chafing. O’Neill is constantly improving its products, but this one is near perfect for warm water surfers.

BEST FOR BUDGET MULTI-SPORT ATHLETES

The Hevto 3 mm wetsuit is the most affordable full-body wetsuit on the list. Even though it doesn’t keep water out as well as other suits, it is a wetsuit that can be used for much more than surfing. This is due to the fact that the suit is built with buoyancy in mind. It helps you float in the water. Beginners will also love this wetsuit because of how easy it is to put on and take off. We recommend this suit to new surfers because you will be able to get a feel for if a wetsuit is necessary without spending a fortune.

BEST FOR BUDGET, WARM WATER SURFERS

This wetsuit is the only full-length wetsuit on this list that is designed for warmer temperatures. It won’t keep you warm in cold waters, but it will be comfortable. The fabric that is used underneath the armpits and knees stretches more than the fabric used in other areas of the wetsuit. 

The fabric used on the chest is also unique. It provides more padding and grip than other wetsuits. There are also pads at the shoulders and knees. All of these features combined make this wetsuit durable and long lasting. At a low price point, this wetsuit is ideal for beginners who want a full bodysuit.

BEST FOR A VARIETY OF COLOR OPTIONS

This O’Neill wetsuit is ideal for women who want a stylish wetsuit. There is a large variety of color options available, so you’ll be able to find a wetsuit that fits your vibe. The wetsuit has a wide temperature range because it keeps water out better than other wetsuits. The seams are blindstiched and glued. The neck also has two closures, which also helps to keep water out. This wetsuit is comfortable, stylish, and durable.

BEST FOR COLD WATER

This wetsuit is a beast and is ideal for frigid temperatures. Instead of being made with just neoprene, it has a rubber layer to keep water out extremely well. 

There are multiple things that set this wetsuit apart from others. First, it’s the thickest wetsuit on the list but is also made with an internal firewall. This thermal lining generates more heat the longer you stay out in the cold. 

Second, it also comes with a hood to keep your head warm. Finally, the cuffs at the wrists and ankles will seal out water better than any other wetsuit. If you’re going on a nordic surfing adventure, get this wetsuit. You’ll freeze otherwise.

BEST FOR CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

The company that makes this first leash says it all — Own The Wave. This leash is designed to help you do just that. The company really puts an emphasis on customer satisfaction. After purchasing the leash they will send a video to your email that explains the process of installing your leash. To top things off though, the leash is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you aren’t pleased with the leash, you can return it for a full refund. What more could you ask for?

BEST FOR HIDDEN KEY POCKET

If the color of your leash matters, this may be the leash for you. It is offered in more colors than any leash on the list. The leash also is one of the only leashes on the list that has a hidden key pocket in the cuff. This will allow you to store your key while you’re out catching waves. The BPS Pro doesn’t just look great, it performs well too. If you aren’t pleased, you can even return the leash for a full refund.

BEST FOR DURABILITY

The Dakine Coiled has all the things that you could want in a bodyboard leash. The cuff is the smallest of all the leashes on the list, which makes the leash feel as if it isn’t even there. The swivels on this leash are made with top of the line marine grade stainless steel. Other leash swivels may deteriorate over time, but not this one. The leash will stay out of your way and last for a really, really long time.

BEST FOR BONUS WAIST CARRY

Leaving your things on the beach can be sketchy, especially if you go to the beach alone. Fortunately for you, this leash from Tagvo comes with a free waist carry. You can store your wallet, phone, keys, and other things in it, strap it around your waist, and catch waves without having to worry about your things. The leash is made with high strength material and stretches out to over 4 feet. The cuff is also very durable, made with super-strong velcro and reinforced stitching.

BEST FOR SIMPLE PUTTING ON AND TAKING OFF

The Power Ring is touted as the perfect leash for the bodyboarder who rides any wave that comes their way. The leash comes in four different colors, each of which has a cuff and cord that matches. The cuff has the same hook and loop technology as other leashes on the list. It’s also made with neoprene, making it super comfortable. This leash is tested and proven, but if you’re not satisfied, you can send it back to the company for a replacement or refund.

BEST ALL-AROUND LEASH 

Looking for the best leash on the list? Look no further. The Creatures of Leisure leash is a very specialized leash. It’s made with a unique DNA flex mold, which absorbs impact better than any other coil on the list. This is especially nice when you’re paddling out to catch waves. The leash was specifically designed for medium size waves, but it can handle massive waves just as well as other leashes on the list. You also won’t have to worry about the cuff slipping off as it comes with Creatures of Leisure’s patented non-slip technology.

BEST FOR SHORTBOARD SURFERS

Dakine makes a wide variety of surfboard leashes, but this one was built to withstand all sorts of conditions. It’s extremely lightweight and thin, and you’ll hardly even notice it around your ankle. Don’t let that trick you into thinking that it can’t take a beating though. It will stay connected in the toughest of surf conditions. To top things off, the ankle cuff is cushioned and extremely comfortable. If your board is shorter than 6 ft, this might just be the leash for you.

BEST FOR BUDGET SURFERS

The Woowave Premium leash is significantly cheaper than any other leash on this list. It’s 7 mm thick, which creates a bit more drag but ensures that it won’t snap. In the event that it does snap though, Woowave will replace it for free. To top things off, your purchase includes a waterproof wallet and phone case. If you aren’t sure what you want out of your surf leash, this is a great first leash.

BEST FOR QUICK RELEASE

The Alpenflow Premium is truly that — a premium leash. It’s short and thick, which more extreme surfers will find necessary. It also has a quick-release system. Although rare, your board can get caught on a reef and keep you trapped underwater. A quick-release system will let you remove your leash quickly and swim to safety. If you are planning to surf reef breaks more than beach breaks, this might be the leash for you.

BEST FOR ECO-CONSCIOUS SURFERS

Unfortunately, plastic’s impact on the environment doesn’t hide in the ocean. This leash helps combat that by being one of the only leashes made with recycled materials. It also features a double swivel, which means the leash will rotate at your ankle and near the board. This allows you to surf without worry about the leash wrapping around your leg. To top things off, the cuff features some pretty awesome graphics so you can look cool while you surf too!

BEST FOR BEGINNER SURFERS

If you aren’t certain about what you want your leash to do, this is a great option for you. The rail saver on this leash is removable. Removing the rail saver will reduce drag in the water, but make the edges of your board more prone to damage. Most importantly, this leash will progress with you as you get better at surfing. It can handle all types of waves and all types of surfboards.

BEST FOR SMALL WAVE SURFERS

FCS brings new innovation to the table with this surf leash. Instead of being made solely with urethane like other surf leashes, it is constructed with nylon yarn wrapped around a durable cord. It’s the only leash on the list that is made this way, allowing it to be extremely thin. 

It may stay out of your way and have very little drag, but surfers have been a bit disappointed with this leash for other reasons. In larger waves, the leash stretches out without recoiling or may straight-up rip. For this reason, this leash is recommended for use in small waves. One positive feature of the leash, though, is the silicone on the inside of the cuff. The leash will stay in place on your ankle better than other leashes.

BEST FOR DURABILITY

This leash from Ocean and Earth can withstand a beating. The cord itself is made with extremely tough material, but it’s also thicker than other leashes. The swivel joints are also made with anti-corrosive steel that will withstand years of use. And the cuff is made thicker than most. All of these things combined create a leash that won’t need to be replaced.

BEST FOR ABSORBING WAVE CONTACT

Creatures of Leisure is respected by surfers and surf product companies alike. In fact, they were the very first company to introduce the swivel to surfboard leashes. They innovate the traditional leash with this one as well. What makes it stand apart is a patented DNA Flex Mold, created to absorb wave impact. This makes the leash strong, flexible, and durable. Creatures of Leisure makes very quality products, and this one does not disappoint.

BEST FOR SLIDING YOUR BOARD IN

Pro-Lite specializes in making high-quality surfboard bags. This bag does all that you could ask of it. At one end, it’s much wider, which allows you to store your surfboard without removing the fins. It may not be the best bag for air travel, but it will serve you well if you need a bag that keeps your board safe from home to the beach. With a zipper at the top, it’s easy to slide your board in and out. Pro-Lite offers this bag in many different sizes so you can find a size that holds your board snug to secure it well and keep it protected during travel.

BEST FOR BUDGET SURFERS

Not really sure if you need a surfboard bag? This model from Curve will allow you to try one out without spending too much. Be careful though, because it doesn’t have very much padding. However, this does make the bag very lightweight. One unique feature of this bag is a zipper that opens directly into the main compartment. Most bags have pockets, but they are very small. Having access to the main compartment will allow you to store bulky things, like your wetsuit or a towel, in your surfboard bag as well.

BEST FOR ALTERNATIVELY SHAPED BOARDS

Is your board shaped in a unique way? If so, you’ve probably been frustrated trying to find a bag that fits your board. This surfboard bag from Dakine is very wide, so your board will fit no matter its shape. It’s also quite protective. The padding is thick, but the fabric is heat and water-resistant. You’ll have to remove your surfboard fins, but there is a pocket in the bag where you can store them. All in all, this is a solid surfboard bag.

BEST FOR SURFERS WHO ALSO SUP (STAND UP PADDLE BOARD)

This surfboard bag is the largest on the list. It was designed to fit extra-long surfboards and stand up paddleboards. You also can decide how you want the bag to fit around your board. If you want to leave your fins on, the bag extends and can accommodate that preference. If you want the bag to fit snug, you can choose to velcro down the end of the bag. Reviewers rave about the durability and construction of the bag. This is an all-around solid bag.

BEST STRETCH COVER BAG

FCS brings a unique approach to the surfboard bag with this design. First off, the zipper is only located at the bottom of the bag, which allows for the edges of the board to be adequately covered. This also makes the bag extremely lightweight. In the middle of the bag is what FCS calls an ‘armadillo strip’. This provides ventilation to the board while keeping the bag snug around your board. This bag isn’t recommended for long-distance travel, but if you want a snug bag for your board, this is it.

BEST FOR PROTECTING MULTIPLE BOARDS

Serious surfers love this bag. It can haul all your surfboards comfortably no matter where you may be traveling. The bag has two internal pads which shield the boards from one another during transportation. What really makes this bag shine, though, is its durability. The shoulder strap connects at four different points instead of only two, so you won’t need to worry about it giving out over time. The bag has vents, a heat reflective bottom, and padding on every single inch. You won’t ever worry about your boards when using this elite bag from Dakine.

BEST FOR MANY SURFBOARDS

This surfboard bag is massive! It will hold 3 or 4 boards comfortably and will keep them secure with multiple internal and external compression straps. The best part is, this beast of a bag will hold much more than just your surfboards. You can use exterior and interior pockets to store all of your surfing accessories. The bag is heavy with a thick layer of padding and its molded hand strap and adjustable shoulder strap make it easy to carry. If you plan on traveling with a bunch of your surfboards, consider this bag.

BEST FOR ROLLING TRANSPORTATION

Wave Tribe surfboard bags are made with high-quality hemp, which will definitely take your surfer style to the next level. Style aside, this bag is super protective. It features the thickest padding on the list and has double the padding on more fragile parts of the surfboard, the tip and the tail. On top of that, it has internal heat protection that will cover your board when sitting out in the sun. It’s really the ultimate surfboard bag if you’re going to be transporting multiple surfboards to another country.

BEST FOR WATERPROOF PROTECTION

Creatures of Leisure is a respected name in the surfing community. Each of their products is tested to ensure they perform at the highest level possible. This bag features the companies’ own patented Diamond-Tech fabric. This fabric is waterproof and will shelter your bag from extreme elements. The padding on the bag may not be the thickest, but this bag will last for a really long time.

BEST BASECOAT SURF WAX

Before you start thinking about what temperature of wax you’ll need, get a solid basecoat. A good basecoat allows the topcoat of wax to stay on your board for a long period of time. Basecoats last much longer than topcoats. This wax, like other basecoats, is a softer wax that is easy to apply. Unlike other waxes on the list, this wax is made in Australia. It’s ultra-sticky and trusted by surfers around the globe.

BEST FOR MULTIPLE TYPES OF BOARDS

The name of this wax catches your attention, but don’t be fooled. It should only be used on boards. That being said though, it can be used on both traditional surfboards and foam boards. The amount of stickiness is just right for all levels of surfers. What reviewers praise most is the coconut smell of this wax. It smells good, sticks right, and is very versatile. It may be expensive, but this surf wax is one of the best on the list.

BEST FOR UNIQUE SCENT

Bubble Gum Surf Wax has been around since the ’80s, but they still stick to their uniquely scented bubble gum wax. Top surfers around the world claim that this wax performs better than any other. It has serious grip that will last on your board for multiple sessions in the water. This specific wax was made for cold temperatures below 60°F.

BEST FOR COOL WATER STICKINESS

Water temperatures shift year-round, which is why you may need to think about purchasing multiple types of surf wax. This wax can be used from November to February when temperatures drop on both coasts of the United States. Sticky Bumps wax was the first traction-added wax, designed to build up quickly and have a putty-like feel underneath the feet. You won’t need to use much wax to maintain a solid grip on your surfboard.

BEST WAX WITH MULTIPLE SCENTS

This wax from Mr. Zog’s is best for warm water temperatures. It’s a very hard wax that will withstand hours in the water and the hot sun without melting. The wax comes in multiple different colors and scents, so you’ll be able to pick a wax that best suits your vibe. It also will help you recognize when more wax is necessary. The wax is easy to apply and can be used as a topcoat or a base coat.

BEST FOR COLD WATER

This surf wax from Ransom pairs well with their own basecoat wax. The two used together will stick to your board without sticking to your body. This specific wax should be used in cold water. It’s a softer wax that is easy to apply, smells great, and is safe on the skin. Surfers have trusted Ransom for years now, and it will perform well for you if you need a cold water surf wax.

BEST WAX WITH A FREE BAG

Matunas makes a wide variety of surf waxes, but this base layer is the most essential. No matter what temperature of water you’re surfing in, a base layer is the first step to successful surfing. The wax is made with local materials on the company’s farm in California. What makes this wax unique though is the fact that your purchase comes with a free coin bag. This coin bag is best used for storing your used blocks of wax.

BEST FOR SOFT BOARDS

Sticky Bumps makes a surf wax for everyone. This specific wax is designed for soft boards, which require a unique sort of wax — a soft wax that sticks on your board in moderate and warmer temperatures. It won’t get oily as the day goes on, allowing you to stick to your board and catch some big waves.