Gear & progression · 3 min read
Which Surf Wax Should You Use?
Start with water temperature and your board’s deck. The strongest marketing claim is not the same thing as the right bar for your session.
Read the lessonBESTSWELL SURF ACADEMY
Gear & progression
Look after your kit and make thoughtful choices as your surfing develops.
Choose suitable wax, look after the kit you already own and make a thoughtful board change. Product-specific advice comes from the listed manufacturers and coaching references.
Three checks before choosing a wax
Water first
Compare the expected water temperature with the range printed on that particular bar.
Read the bar
Cold, cool, warm and tropical are product labels. The ranges are not identical across brands.
Check the deck
Hard boards, foam decks and traction pads can have different instructions.
Where would you like to start?
Read in any order. New to surfing? Start with choosing a beginner session before trying a water-based drill.
Gear & progression · 3 min read
How Often Should You Wax a Surfboard?
Check the grip before each session. A small top-up and a full clean-and-rewax are different jobs, and neither needs a made-up calendar rule.
Read the lessonGear & progression · 3 min read
When Should You Move to a Smaller Surfboard?
A smaller board is an option, not a graduation prize. Make the decision around the waves you catch and control, with feedback from your coach.
Read the lessonGear & progression · 3 min read
Surfboard Care: After the Surf and Between Sessions
A rinse, a check and somewhere cool to store the board go a long way. Know the construction before reaching for a repair kit.
Read the lessonGear & progression · 3 min read
How to Rinse, Dry and Store a Wetsuit
Look after the suit you already own: rinse after the surf, dry it out of strong sun and follow the care instructions for its material and lining.
Read the lessonGear & progression · 3 min read
Choosing a Surf Leash and Checking It Before You Surf
Choose a leash for the board and its intended use, then inspect the parts you rely on. A thin competition cord is not a universal upgrade.
Read the lessonAbout these guides
By BestSwell, with AI-assisted research, writing and illustrations. Sources are listed with each lesson; independent technical and coaching review is still pending. Suggest a correction.