Best Surf SUP Gear Guide for 2025

Picking the right equipment makes all the difference in surf SUP. The board, paddle, and small extras decide how easy it is to catch waves and stay in control.

Ready to ride waves on a stand-up paddleboard? Check our full range of Surf SUPs built for real ocean performance.

Pick the Right Surf SUP Board

Surf SUPs differ from flat-water boards. They are usually shorter and narrower with more rocker in the nose and tail. This shape turns faster and fits the curve of a wave.

Key points to match a board to you:

• Length: 7’6” to 10’6” covers most riders. Shorter boards turn quicker; longer ones stay stable.
• Width: 28–32 inches is common. Narrow feels lively, wider gives confidence.
• Volume: Match litres to your weight plus 30–50 litres for beginners in surf.
• Construction: Hard epoxy for sharp response. Inflatable for travel and storage.

At Loco we shape every board for UK and European waves. See the range:

• Loco Shred Air inflatable – packs small, surfs big.
• Loco Twinny – twin-fin speed.
• Loco El Diablo – down-the-line performance.
• Loco Amigo – forgiving all-round hard board.
• Full collection and size guide here: Loco Surf SUPs

Choose a Paddle That Works in Waves

A good surf paddle is light and stiff. Every extra gram you lift all day tires you out faster.

What matters most:

• Material: Full carbon or carbon-fibreglass mix keeps weight low.
• Blade size: Smaller blades (80–90 sq in) load less on quick strokes.
• Shaft: Go fixed length or adjustable cut to size (roughly your height + 15–20 cm for surf).
• Weight: Under 700 g feels best for long sessions.

Many riders now use quick-lock adjustables so one paddle works for surf and flat-water days.

Must-Have Accessories

• Leash: Coiled leashes stop the board shooting far in wipeouts. Always wear one. Quick tip from the ISA: “Your board is your biggest flotation device – stay connected.”
• Traction pad: Gives grip without wax in cold water.
• Board bag: Protects fins and rails in the car or on planes.
• Fins: Thruster (three-fin) setup is standard. Quad works in small waves.

Protective Kit You Should Own

• Impact vest or PFD: Low-profile vests add flotation and rib protection.
• Helmet: Common now in rocky breaks or crowded spots. Modern surf helmets are light and vented.
• Wetsuit or rash vest: Even in summer, UV protection and rash prevention matter.

Transport and Storage Made Simple

Hard boards: Good roof pads and tie-down straps stop damage. Inflatables: Roll into a backpack and fit in any car boot.

After sessions, rinse everything with fresh water and dry away from direct sun.

Quick Maintenance Checklist

• Rinse salt off board, paddle, and leash after every session.
• Check rails and fins for dings.
• Store boards on racks, not flat on the ground.
• Keep inflatables half-inflated in the bag if using often.

For more on board care, the Surfing England guide has solid advice.

Final Thoughts

Good gear turns average sessions into great ones. Match the board volume and shape to your weight and local waves, pick a light paddle, and never skip the leash.

Visit Loco Surfing for boards shaped in the UK and shipped fast across Europe.

Which board are you riding this winter? Drop a comment below.