It happens to everyone, some time or another you will fall off of your surfboard. Your surfboard will be thrown away from you so you have to ensure that you keep it under control for a number of reasons. The main reason would be to prevent your surfboard hitting other surfers or people in the water. There is a way to prevent this from happening, it’s in the form of a surfboard leash.

A surfboard leash usually is made from urethane cord with a Velcro strap at the other end, which goes around your ankle. Another handy advantage this will give you is in the event of you falling off, you will not have to swim after your surfboard as it will only go so far away from you.

If you are a beginner you should never start a surfing session without a leash in place, being prone to falling off you would hate to have to swim after your surfboard each and every time. It also can be used to assist you when paddling out into the sea. By reading the surfing etiquette you will be advised to always wear a leash, regardless of skill.

There are a few disadvantages wearing a surfboard leash which you should be aware of, pay attention so that you don’t get your feet tangled up in the leash causing you to actually fall off in the first place. It may even swing the board back to yourself in the event of a wipe out causing an accident if it was to hit you.

Once you have the confidence and experience you may wish to decide to surf without wearing a leash, although it may seem useful when riding big waves it could also pose a threat if you were to get tangled up in the cord. It could even get caught in any rocks, reef or coral if you are not careful.