The winter surf checklist is key to enjoying the best sessions when temperatures drop. The cold doesn't have to stop your surfing; with the right gear, from wetsuits and leashes to winter ponchos and board bags, you can stay warm and prepared before, during, and after each session.
Winter Surf Checklist Items
1. Winter Wetsuit: The Most Basic Essential
If a cold day starts badly, it's usually because of the wetsuit.
For winter:
- 4/3 mm in temperate waters
- 5/4 mm or 6/5/4 mm in cold waters
- Sealed seams and thermal lining
- Front zip to prevent water entry
Flytip: If the wetsuit pulls you out of the water, it will be worse inside. Always check mobility.
2. Booties, Gloves, and Hood: Your Thermal Shield
Cold enters through your hands, feet, and head. If you keep them warm, your session multiplies.
- 3–5 mm booties for insulation and better grip
- 3–5 mm gloves to prevent stiff fingers
- Hood to retain body heat
A good hood can be the difference between getting frozen or catching one more wave.
3. Leash: Small, but Essential
The leash is one of those accessories you don't notice... until it fails. In winter, with more powerful swells and stronger currents, having a leash in good condition is key.
Winter leash checklist:
- Check the swivel
- Make sure the cord isn't cracked
- Check the velcro
- In strong conditions, choose a thicker leash
A damaged leash can turn a good session into a scare.
4. Board Bags to Protect Your Board
In winter, between rain, cold, and temperature changes, your board suffers more.
Surfboard bags help to:
- Protect from knocks during transport
- Prevent damage from extreme cold
- Keep wax controlled
- Transport wet accessories and wetsuits without dirtying the car
If you're someone who leaves your board in the van between sessions, a good board bag is almost mandatory.
5. Your Best Ally for Changing: Winter Poncho
This is where the magic happens. Fly winter ponchos have become an essential for surfers who don't miss a session, no matter the weather.
Why use them?
- They block the wind when changing
- They retain body heat
- Much more comfortable and discreet than changing with a towel
- Fleece-lined for maximum warmth
- Large pockets for storing phone and keys
If you change in the parking lot... this is heaven.
6. Ponchos for Drying After the Water
In addition to the thick winter poncho for changing, quick-drying ponchos are also super useful, perfect for:
- Drying quickly and comfortably
- Changing without direct wind exposure
- Staying warm while taking off your wetsuit
- Minimizing moisture in clothes after surfing
Lightweight, absorbent, and easy to wash. A basic for cold sessions and trips.
7. Extra Towel and Thermal Clothing
In winter, an extra towel is never too much.
Add:
- One to dry yourself
- Another to put on the ground if you don't have a mat
- Thermal clothing: technical t-shirt, thick hoodie, wool hat
The feeling of putting on warm clothes after the water... is priceless.
8. Safety: Fundamental in Winter
Conditions are often more powerful and changeable.
- Check the weather forecast
- Monitor wind direction and tide
- Avoid going in alone if the spot is empty
- Warm up before getting in (very important in the cold)
With this winter surf checklist, you'll avoid forgetting important gear when the cold hits. An epic session only makes sense if you finish well.
Surfing in winter can become your favorite season if you have the right equipment. Being well-prepared allows you to enjoy more, stay warm, and extend your sessions without suffering.
Now that you have the winter surf checklist, why not plan a surf trip like the one we did to Morocco? 😉
And if you want to improve your routine before and after the water, Fly products are your perfect companions.
