The Surfboard Leash

The leash, or leg rope as it is also known, is used to attach your board to your leg. It's an absolutely invaluable piece of surfing equipment for several reasons. The main point is that you are never totally separated by your surfboard.

• After falling off (again) you do not have to go swimming back to the beach to retrieve your board. This saves you a big swim every time you bail.
• You are able to increase your recovery time after coming off because your board is right there to get back onto.
• Your board will be protected from from being washed up on rocks etc if lost.
• It acts a safety stop if you are out in the waves and getting pounded. Your board will be on the surface and you will still be attached to it.
• It keeps your board under control and less of a hazard to other surfers paddling out behind you.

One end of the leash is attached to a plug (aptly named the leash plug) near to the tail of the surfboard. The other end is attached to the surfers back leg buy a velcro strap (cuff). Depending on the type of leash it will either be attached just above the ankle or around the top of the calf.

Parts of the Leash

The Cord
The Cord is made of polyurethane. The thicker the width of the cord the stronger the leash will, the less likely your cord will break. Thicker cords create more drag than thinner ones.

The Cuff
The Cuff is the part that attaches around the leg. Velcro is used to hold it in place. Chose a Cuff that looks comfortable and that will stay nice and snug and in place when you surf. Also consider on with a key pocket so you can take your car key out with you for security (just make sure it is not an electronic key!)

The Rail Saver
The job of the Rail Saver is to protect the surfboards rails from the cord. When you come off your board and the leash pulls tight there can be a lot of pressure on the rail. The wider and longer the Rail Saver the more protection is given to the board, but again creates more drag. The Rail Saver is the end that attaches to the leash cord which in turn attaches to the leash plug on the surfboard.

Leash Swivels
The connection between the Cord and the Cuff, and the Cord and the Rail are sometimes on a swivel joint. A Swivel helps keep the leash from getting tangled up around the surfers feet.

Now you know all there is to know about the surfboard leash find out what one you should be getting.
Which Surfboard Leash is Right for Me? >>