5 Top Tips for Winter Surfing
Still surfing? Yearning to get back in the water? Assuming you’re a proficient surfer there’s no reason you have to ditch the sport in winter. In fact, Winter can be the best season to surf in the UK – you just need to know how to survive the cold water, get organised and ditch the 3:2 wetsuit! Here are our top five tips for staying safe and enjoying the ride.
1. Be Safe
In winter you need to check the tide times and what time the sun rises and sets, as well as the surf and weather reports – it’s essential you don’t get caught out with winter tides and end up surfing in the dark. As UK beaches aren’t lifeguarded during winter you should only surf if you’re genuinely competent. All surfers should know their limits regarding surf conditions – if you’re unsure, always remember there’s safety in numbers.
2. Invest in Good Gear
If you’re surfing the UK in winter you’ll need a 5mm wetsuit. Don’t scrimp on your winter suit – it’ll make a real difference to both how much you enjoy your winter surfs and how long you can stay in the water. Equally as important are your essential winter accessories: rash vest, hood, boots and gloves.
Shop our selection of winter wetsuits and accessories here.
3. Fuel Your Surf
Eat at least a few hours before you surf. The best energizing foods that’ll set you up for a good session are complex carbohydrates (whole grain bread, rice and pasta), vegetables, cereal and pulses. As always drink plenty of water to make sure your body is well hydrated. It’s a good idea to bring a thermos with your favourite hot drink or soup with you in winter, so you’ve got something warming to have as soon as you’ve got changed into your post-surf clothes.
4. Don't Stop Moving
Before you brave the cold water be sure to spend a few minutes stretching. This will warm your muscles up and help prevent injury. In the water it’s important to keep paddling around when you’re not catching a wave. If you sit still and wait for a decent set, as you would in summer, you’ll start to feel the cold.
5. Change in Comfort
Before you leave home make yourself a hot water bottle, and use it to wrap your post surf clothes in, so they’re lovely and warm when you get dressed. You’ll probably want to utilise its warmth on your drive home too! Make getting changed post winter surf more pleasant for yourself with a change robe, which makes getting changed a warmer and more private affair.