For surfers, this time of year means one thing: time off of work. And if they’re lucky, the stars will align allowing them to enjoy some weekday bliss under the lowered winter sun. This combination of free time and good surf definitely tops their wish list during the holiday season. However, it’s entirely up to Mother Nature whether or not she’ll answer those prayers on a positive note. But not to worry, there’s plenty more opportunity to watch your surfer’s sun-spotted face light up this season, even if you’re unsure about where to start.
We get it too. Gifting the surfer in your life, especially if you don’t surf, can come across as a daunting task. You may find yourself highly confused as to what they need or want besides a new $600 surfboard, or a one-way ticket to the destination of their choice. Believe it or not, however, there’s plenty out there up for grabs such as various accessories to preventive products to ways for them to get clean after a session. So in the spirit of surfing, these are some of the best gifts for surfers that are bound to be used on a daily basis as well as keep them stoked for at least another year both in and out of the water.
Word Notebooks The Surfer Journal
Part of scoring good waves is understanding your local break. That means documenting when it’s good, specifically the conditions such as swell direction, tide conditions, wind, and size. These Word notebooks make this task an easy one, giving surfers up to 48 pages in each book to fill out such stats after each session. They come in packs of three as well and are made right here in the USA.
Salty Beards Surf Balm
Surfer’s skin takes a beating, no doubt about that. From sunburns to burnt lips to rashes, scrapes, and cuts from the reef we’re constantly dealing with some sort of skin ailment. Luckily, California-based Salty Beards offer the Surfer’s Balm, loaded with Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil, Copaiba balsam, Zinc, and Stevia -along with a little lavender- for use on lips, scrapes, cut hands, peeling skin or tattoos.
Leatherman Thruster Pocket Tool
Who would have thought there’d be a multi-tool designed specifically for surfers? Well, feast your eyes on this Thruster PocketTool. Each one hosts a bottle opener, a bit driver with a fin key to replace those fins on the fly, a wax comb, a bottle opener, and a spring hook. Designed by professional surfer Cyrus Sutton for the wave rider in your life.
EiR NYC Surf Mud
It’s no secret that surfers are exposed to higher than normal levels of UV rays. So no matter what time of year they’re out there sunscreen is always recommended. This waterproof, all natural and hydrating sun block boasts an SPF rating of 30 and is made from Zinc Oxide and Cocoa. Inspired by the traditional Mayan chocolate masks.
Ho Stevie! Surf Poncho
For those who know, changing in and out of a wetsuit can be a cumbersome task to say the least. Typically, surfers use a simple beach towel to get the job done, but with colder weather on the horizon, something that covers you up a bit more is ideal for this chilly activity. The Surf Poncho, made from thick microfiber that’s soft to the touch and quick drying, is a perfect option. It doubles as a towel, fits just about anyone thanks to its 47-inch length and will make the inevitable change out that much easier. Trust us, they’ll love it.
Surf Grass Mat
More often than not, we’re changing out on the asphalt or in the sand. Either way, it’s a bit messy and dirty at times. With the Surf Grass Mat, however, this won’t be a problem. It features soft synthetic grass that stays cools and comfortable no matter what. It’s also large enough to keep everything clean and off the ground when changing out and measures in at 20 X 25 inches.
GoPro Surf HERO Expansion Kit
Whether they already have a GoPro or are interested in picking one up, the type of shots surfers can achieve while wave riding are one of a kind. This expansion kit simply attaches to a surfboard, facilitating those type of POV wave riding shots they covet so much. And the best part? It’s compatible with all GoPro cameras with the exception of the HERO 5 Wrist Camera.
Double Layer Rainbow Sandals
Surfer or not, who wouldn’t like a fresh pair of American-made sandals this holiday season. Rainbows have been a Southern California staple for many decades now, with devotees swearing by their quality and comfort. This pair, in particular, features a rubber sole, leather upper, a Rainbow Trac bottom, and handmade and triple glued so they’re good to go for many years.
Surf Ears
Surfing in cold water year round can have detrimental effects on a surfer’s ear canal. It’s advised then that ear plugs be worn during sessions out in the water. Surf Ears offer exceptional protection from water entering the ear canal without muffling the world around them. Their shape allows them to securely plug and stay snug in the ear while their ear gel design offers a comfortable fit for even the longest surf sessions.
Sharkbanz
As much as we don’t like to consider the possibility, surfer’s aren’t always alone out there. They’re simply visitors in a strange landscape, often with some unfriendly locals. This proven shark deterrent not only protects surfers from shark encounters but will provide peace of mind to those who dare not enter those chilly waters. It boasts a universal fit and requires no batteries or charging. Win-win situation here.
HexaTraction Clear Surf Grip
If waxing and re-waxing a surfboard isn’t how the surfer in your life cares to spend their time, hook them up with this clear surf grip. It’s all the traction they need for their board without the worry or mess that comes along with wax. Easy to install, thin and lightweight, and its nonaggressive structure won’t tear up their stomachs when paddling.
The Surfer’s Journal
Give the gift of the written word this year. The Surfer’s Journal is a timeless publication offering some of the best surf journalism around. From profiles on up and coming surfers to environmental issues plaguing their playgrounds around the world to commentary on where the sport is heading, it’s a one-stop-shop for everything you need to know about the pastime. Their photography is one of a kind as well making it a subscription well worth every penny.
Roark Revival First Nation Board Shorts
Few things are more enjoyable in life than surfing in board shorts. And this pair from Roark Revival boasts unparalleled comfort and performance thanks to their lightweight, stretchy, and structured material. They also host a rear pocket for carry items when on land and the waist tie ensures a snug fit every time.
Dragon Alliance Sunglasses
With all that exposure to the sun out in the water, it’s highly beneficial to protect the eyes while on land. These floatable Dragon sunglasses are built from a lightweight material, and won’t sink to the bottom of the ocean, pool or lake if you decide to take a swim. And with a stylish design, these Dragons boast both function and form. Perfect for this time of year.
RinseKit
It’s always a good idea to rinse off with some clean water after a surf, but if there is no public restroom or shower at their local beach, this can be an issue. The RinseKit solves this dilemma, functioning as a pressurized portable shower, delivering spray for up to 3 minutes. It holds 2 gallons of water, and as long as they’re water conscious, it will last them for many a session.
Filson Dry Duffle
Boat trips, backcountry excursions through the rainforest to that secret spot, or simply a day trip to the beach during a weather event. Odds are their gear is going to get wet. It makes perfect sense then why this Dry Duffle from Filson serves as the perfect gift. It’s made from vinyl-coated polyester, boasts a roll top with a hook and loop closure, and the duffle’s sonic-welded seams offer protection from wear, water, and dust.
SoloShot 2
The SoloShot is hands down one of the coolest self-filming mechanisms around. Simply wear the tag, set up the solo shot on the beach atop a tripod and the device with follow and film your every move. It boasts horizontal 360-degree tracking up to 80 deg/sec and vertical tracking +/- 60-degrees up to 35 deg/sec. The battery also boasts a 5-hour lifespan so even the longest sessions will be filmed with precision.
GoPro Hero 5
In this day and age, if you didn’t film it, it didn’t happen. Same goes for that wave of the day surfers claim they snagged ever so often. Well, here’s an opportunity for them to provide proof of such claims. The HERO 5 shoots in 4K video and takes 12MP photos in single, burst, or time lapse modes. It’s also waterproof up to 10 meters without a housing and allows users to now playback shots, change settings, and even trim footage all on the GoPro’s new back screen.
Nixon Mission Smartwatch
A solid surf watch is a must have these days, especially during the holiday season when there are family events happening all the time. And not only does this Nixon Smartwatch offer a superior waterproof rating, but it can provide current swell updates, tide conditions, as well as pair with Google Maps, Music, and Flights. More than just a watch, it’s a lifeline on your wrist.
Xcel Hawaii 4/3 Revolt
It’s time to keep warm when out in the water. And depending on where your surfing companion lives, odds are at some point during the year they’re going to need a bit of neoprene if they’re to remain toasty in the lineup. This Xcel wetsuit features GBS seams with Thermo Dry tape to prevent water entry, offers UltraStretch neoprene for enhanced flexibility, and its TDC lining retains and recycles body heat.
