Essential accessories for surfing in winter

Winter is here, and with it, cold waters, icy winds, and surf sessions reserved only for the most dedicated. If you're one of those surfers who isn't fazed by the cold, you know that proper preparation is essential to fully enjoy the ocean without suffering from extreme temperatures. So, what are the must-have accessories for surfing in winter? In this comprehensive article, we give you all the keys to facing icy waves with the right gear.

1. The neoprene wetsuit: your armor against the cold

What thickness should I choose?

The centerpiece of your winter gear is, of course, your wetsuit. In winter, a wetsuit that's too thin won't protect you effectively, and you risk hypothermia within minutes. Here's a quick guide to choosing the right thickness based on the water temperature:

• Water between 12 and 16°C : 4/3 mm wetsuit
• Water between 8 and 12°C : 5/4 mm wetsuit
• Water below 8°C : 6/5/4 mm combination

A thicker suit retains heat better, but it can also be more rigid. High-end models offer more flexible materials that improve mobility despite the thickness.

The technologies that make the difference

Today, the best winter surf wetsuits incorporate advanced technologies to improve thermal insulation. Glued and blindstitched seams (GBS), internal fleece linings, and windproof panels on the chest and back make all the difference in limiting heat loss. Opt for a full wetsuit with a chest zip or no zip at all to minimize water entry.

2. Neoprene booties: protecting your feet from the cold

One of the most sensitive parts of the body to cold is the feet. After just a few minutes in icy water without protection, they become numb, you lose sensation, and this can affect not only your balance but also your responsiveness on the board. In winter, when the water temperature drops below 15°C, neoprene booties become essential for comfortable surfing.

What thickness should the slippers be?

The choice of thickness depends directly on the water temperature:

• 3 mm : sufficient for waters between 12 and 16°C . Ideal for the transition between autumn and winter in regions where the water remains relatively soft.
• 5 mm : recommended for waters between 8 and 12°C . This is the standard thickness for most surfers in winter in France.
• 7mm : essential for temperatures below 8°C . Perfect for sessions in very cold waters, such as in northern Brittany or during trips to Scotland.

How to choose the right slippers?

Choose booties with non-slip soles for better grip on your board, especially if you're riding in choppy conditions where stability is key. Opt for a snug fit that molds to the shape of your foot without being too tight, to prevent water from getting in while ensuring comfort. Some models also have adjustable Velcro straps around the ankle for added support.

Round slippers or split-toe slippers?

You will have a choice between two types of slippers:

Classic (round) models : they provide a more natural feel and are often more comfortable.

Split-toe models : with the big toe separated from the rest, they offer better stability on the board, avoiding the feeling of "floating" inside the boot.

Finally, don't forget to rinse your climbing shoes thoroughly with clean water after each session to prevent bad odors and prolong their lifespan. There's nothing worse than shoes that smell bad before you've even put your feet in them.

3. The balaclava: to protect your head and avoid brain freeze

When surfing in winter, a balaclava is an essential accessory. The head is one of the areas of the body where heat loss is greatest. Without protection, the sensation of "brain freeze" (instant freezing of the scalp) can be not only unpleasant but also dangerous: a sudden thermal shock can disrupt your concentration, affect your breathing, and cut your session short in minutes.

What type of balaclava should I choose?

The choice of the thickness of your hood depends on the water temperature:

• 2mm hood : suitable for water temperatures between 10 and 15°C . It offers good thermal insulation while remaining flexible and comfortable.
• 3mm balaclava : ideal for temperatures below 10°C . It provides better protection against the cold and further limits water infiltration.

Integrated or separate hood?

Some winter suits have a hood sewn directly into the suit. This type of hood offers several advantages:

• Less water infiltration : with an integrated hood, water has fewer opportunities to seep into the neck and face.
• Better heat retention : by reducing the influx of cold water, body heat is better preserved.
• Less unwanted movement : a hood attached to the suit prevents it from moving or coming loose in case of a fall.

On the other hand, a separate surf hood offers more flexibility: it allows you to adapt your equipment according to the conditions and can be removed more easily if the water temperature is milder.

Some tips for maximum comfort

Adjusting your balaclava correctly : A balaclava that is too tight can be uncomfortable and hinder breathing, while one that is too loose will let water in and lose its thermal efficiency.

Opt for a balaclava with a visor : Some models have a small visor that helps reduce water running onto the face and improves visibility.

Rinse after each session : Salt and sand can damage neoprene. Rinsing with fresh water after each session will prolong the life of your hood.

With the right balaclava, you can surf in winter without fearing freezing temperatures and fully enjoy your sessions, even in extreme conditions!

4. Gloves: keeping your hands functional

When the water is cold, your extremities are the first to feel the chill. Within minutes, your fingers can go numb, making paddling difficult and reducing your ability to grip your board during maneuvers. Good equipment is therefore essential to keep your hands functional and prevent the cold from prematurely ending your session.

How to choose the right surfing gloves?

The thickness of the gloves depends primarily on the water temperature:

• 2 to 3 mm : suitable for waters above 12°C . They offer good thermal protection while ensuring some flexibility so as not to hinder your movements.
• 5 mm : recommended for waters below 10°C . Thicker, they provide maximum insulation against the cold but may slightly reduce finger sensitivity and flexibility.

Which material should be preferred?

Neoprene gloves are the most effective choice for winter surfing. Some models have a thermal lining that further improves heat retention. There are also gloves with sealed seams (usually glued and stitched) to minimize water penetration.

Important details for optimal comfort

Non-slip palm : Opt for gloves with a silicone coating or textured grip on the palm. This improves your grip on your board and prevents it from slipping during take-offs or maneuvers.

Perfect fit : Gloves should fit snugly without being too tight. Gloves that are too loose will let in cold water, while gloves that are too small risk compressing the fingers and restricting blood circulation.

Ease of donning : Some models are equipped with long cuffs or Velcro bands for a better fit to the suit and to prevent water from entering.

Regular maintenance to prolong their lifespan

As with the rest of your neoprene gear, rinse your gloves with fresh water after each session to remove salt and sand, and let them dry in the shade to prevent the neoprene from hardening.

With a good pair of gloves suited to the water temperature, you'll maintain your dexterity and be able to surf longer, even in the middle of winter! We also offer a guide to help you choose the right gloves here.

5. The board adapted to winter conditions

Winter often transforms surf spots: swells are more frequent, waves become more powerful and hollow, and conditions can be more demanding. To make the most of your winter sessions, it's essential to adapt your board to these new conditions according to your skill level and surfing style.

Which snowboard should I choose for winter?

• Shortboard : Ideal for hollow and powerful waves, the shortboard is the choice of experienced surfers in winter. With its refined shape and pronounced rocker, it allows you to grip the face of the wave well and perform radical maneuvers, even in demanding conditions.
• Fish : If the winter waves are softer or you want something a bit easier to paddle, a fish can be an excellent alternative. Wider and thicker than a classic shortboard, it offers good stability and allows for smooth surfing, even in less hollow waves.
• Longboard : Even in winter, some days offer calmer conditions with small but clean waves. A longboard is then a perfect option for gliding in style and optimizing your sessions, even in cold weather.

Adapting your drifts for winter

The choice of fins can also have a significant impact on your winter session:

• Thruster (3 fins) : A classic setup that offers a good balance between control and maneuverability, perfect for powerful winter waves.
• Quad (4 fins) : An excellent choice for gaining speed and grip in hollow and fast conditions. It also allows for better control of challenging take-offs in winter.
• Twin fin (2 fins) : More suited to fish and softer waves, it provides a smooth and playful glide, ideal for relaxed sessions.
• Single fin : Ideal for longboarding, it provides a retro and smooth gliding sensation, perfect for milder winter conditions.

Other factors to consider

Board volume : In winter, with the thickness of the wetsuit and the more demanding conditions, having a board with a little more volume can help you float better and catch waves more easily.

Maintaining your board : Cold water can weaken materials, and impacts are more frequent in challenging conditions. Regularly check the condition of your board and repair any dents before they worsen.

Choosing the wax : Use a wax suitable for cold water to maintain good grip on your board despite low temperatures.

By adjusting your board and setup to winter conditions, you will maximize your performance and enjoy surfing even more, even in the heart of winter!

6. The leash: a safety accessory not to be overlooked

In winter, surfing conditions are often more challenging: more powerful swell, bigger waves, stronger currents… In these conditions, the leash It becomes a real safety feature . It not only prevents you from losing your board if you fall, but also prevents it from becoming a danger to other surfers.

Why use a reinforced leash in winter?

The leash is subjected to significant tension due to the power of the waves and underwater turbulence. A standard model can quickly reach its limits and risk breaking mid-session, leaving you adrift in cold, choppy water. To avoid this scenario, it is recommended to choose a leash that:

Thicker : A diameter of 7 mm is ideal to ensure good tensile strength and limit the risk of breakage.

Longer : It should be at least as long as your board to avoid violent rebounds after a fall.

With an anti-wrap (swivel) system : A double rotating pivot prevents the leash from twisting around your ankle or board, thus improving your comfort and safety.

With a sturdy Velcro : Make sure the ankle (or calf for a longboard) attachment is secure and adjusted, as a worn Velcro can open under the pressure of a powerful wave.

Check your leash before each session

A worn or weakened leash can break at the worst possible moment. Before entering the water, take a few seconds to inspect it :

✅ Check that there are no cracks or cuts on the cord.
✅ Make sure the Velcro is holding well and is not losing its grip.
✅ Check the condition of the swivels to ensure they remain smooth and functional.

Tips to extend the life of your leash

• Rinse it with fresh water after each session to remove salt and sand, which can weaken the material.
• Avoid leaving it wrapped around your board during storage, as this creates twists that reduce its flexibility and increase the risk of tangling.
• Don't pull it abruptly when you're caught in the foam: if possible, swim towards your board instead of relying solely on the pull of the leash.

In winter, a good, sturdy leash is much more than just an accessory: it's a real safety guarantee that allows you to surf with confidence, even in powerful and challenging conditions.

7. Post-session accessories to keep you warm

Getting out of the water in the middle of winter can be a real ordeal. After an intense session in icy water, your body continues to lose heat, and the cold wind that whips you out of the water only makes things worse. To avoid blue lips and chattering teeth , here are a few essentials to keep on hand for a smooth, dry, and warm return.

A surf poncho: the perfect companion for quick and stress-free changes.

Nothing's worse than finding yourself half-naked in a windy parking lot, trying to pull off your wetsuit with numb fingers. A surf poncho is THE solution for changing quickly without freezing.

Immediate warmth : In addition to protecting you from the cold and wind, it absorbs water and keeps you warm while you change.
Ease of use : Wide and ample, it allows you to remove your wetsuit without struggling, even with stiff hands after the session.
Preferred material : A microfiber poncho dries quickly and remains lightweight, while a terry cotton poncho provides more comfort and warmth.

A thermos of hot drink: the reward after the effort

After a freezing session, nothing beats a good hot drink to warm you from the inside out. Whether it's tea, a strong coffee, or even ginger infusion, a full thermos is essential in winter.

Warm up your body quickly after exercise and limit the feeling of cold post-session.
Comforting effect : Nothing is more pleasant than enjoying a hot drink while watching the waves after an intense session.
Energy boost : A sugary drink can also help you recover after exertion, especially if you've spent a good hour battling against the current and powerful waves.

A basin or a waterproof bag: to avoid a mess in the car

In winter, your soaked wetsuit becomes a real logistical nightmare. Cold, heavy, dripping wet… throwing it directly into your car is out of the question, unless you want a soggy floor mat and a damp neoprene smell for days.

Option 1: The basin – A simple plastic basin allows you to lay your wetsuit down without getting water everywhere. As a bonus, you can soak your feet in it to avoid changing on freezing ground.
Option 2: the waterproof bag – A waterproof bag or a neoprene changing bag allows you to store your wetsuit without leaks, and some models even transform into a changing mat to keep your feet dry.

Bonus: little extras for maximum comfort

🔥 A down jacket or a thick sweatshirt to put on as soon as you get out of the water : Keep warm and dry clothes within reach to avoid getting cold while getting dressed.
🧦 Thick socks and easy-to-slip-on shoes : After a session, your feet are often freezing and numb, so opt for comfortable shoes that don't require too much effort to put on.
🧤 Gloves or a hot water bottle : To prevent your numb hands from taking too long to regain their sensitivity.

With these well-chosen accessories, getting out of the water in winter will no longer be an ordeal but just a transition to a well-deserved moment of comfort!

8. Some tips for better surfing in winter

Surfing in winter requires a bit more preparation and attention than during the warmer months. Even with good equipment, the cold can quickly become an obstacle if you don't take the necessary precautions. Here are a few tips to optimize your winter sessions and make the most of them.

Use a special cold water wax

In winter, the water temperature hardens regular wax, reducing its grip and making your board more slippery. To avoid this problem, it's essential to use a wax specifically formulated for cold water .

• Waxes for cold water are formulated to remain soft and sticky even at low temperatures.
• Apply several coats, paying particular attention to the contact areas (front and rear foot) to maximize grip.
• Remember to check and renew your wax regularly before each session.

With a good wax, you will avoid unintentional slips and improve your balance on the board.

Do a good warm-up before getting in the water

An effective warm-up is even more crucial in winter. The cold slows blood circulation and makes your muscles stiffer, thus increasing the risk of injury.

Activates circulation : A few minutes of light running, jumping or dynamic movements helps raise body temperature before facing the cold water.

Loosen your joints : Focus on your shoulders, back and legs with gentle rotations and stretches to improve your mobility.

Simulates rowing movements : This helps prepare your arms and shoulders for the effort, thus reducing the adaptation time once in the water.

Taking five minutes to warm up properly can make all the difference in terms of performance and comfort during your session.

Don't stay in the water too long.

Even with the best suit, your body will inevitably lose heat. Therefore, it's important to know when to go outside to avoid hypothermia.

Listen to your body : If you start to feel chills or a loss of sensation in your extremities, it's a signal that it's time to go outside.

Keep moving : Avoid staying still in the water for too long, as this is when heat loss accelerates.

Set yourself a time limit : Depending on the conditions and how you feel, try to anticipate the duration of your session to avoid reaching a state of exhaustion due to the cold.

It is better to have a shorter, more intense session than to linger too long and risk compromising your recovery.

Hydrate yourself before and after the session

Cold weather has a deceptive effect on the sensation of thirst. In winter, we sweat less and feel less of a need to drink, but the body continues to lose water , particularly through exertion and breathing.

Drink before going in the water : Good hydration beforehand helps your body to better regulate its temperature.

Opt for lukewarm drinks : After the session, a slightly warm drink such as an infusion or lemon water is more pleasant and helps with recovery.

Avoid excessive caffeine : Coffee may be tempting to warm up, but it also has a diuretic effect that can exacerbate dehydration.

By staying well hydrated, you will help your body recover better and limit fatigue after the session.

In summary

Surfing in winter can be an incredible experience if you're well prepared. By choosing the right wax, taking the time to warm up properly, paying attention to your time in the water, and staying hydrated, you'll give yourself the best chance of fully enjoying the winter waves. With these good practices, the cold will no longer be a hindrance but simply something to manage intelligently to maximize your enjoyment in the water.

Conclusion: Face winter with the right gear

Surfing in winter requires good equipment, but with the right accessories, you can enjoy the waves without suffering from the cold. A good wetsuit, booties, a hood, and neoprene gloves are essential to keep your body at a comfortable temperature. Add to that a few post-session accessories and habits adapted to winter conditions, and you'll be ready to face the icy waves with confidence.

So, ready to take the plunge this winter? 🌊❄️