The Surfing Lifestyle: How Much Does It Really Cost?

Like most hobbies, surfing has its typical start-up costs. Of course, you will need a surfboard to start out with. You should also wear a wetsuit if you plan on surfing in cold waters. There are also something other factors to consider such as lessons and additional equipment. You typically don't have to worry about the additional expenses in the beginning. You can just buy any old surfboard and wetsuit if you're just a few miles away from the beach.

Large Surfboards

A beginner's surfboard may cost you between $380 and $1,030 or more. There's no need to purchase a professional or brand name surfboard at the beginning of your journey. You will only wear it out as you gain experience. You may even find that surfing isn't for you, so don't waste your money in the beginning. You can move onto more expensive gear as you get better at it. Save your money for when you plan to become a professional surfer and intend to take it seriously.

When it comes to surfboards, larger surfboards are always better. If you're five-foot-ten, then you shouldn't get one at the same height. You should aim for an 8-foot surfboard, but preferably one around 9 foot six inches. Bigger is always better when it comes to riding the waves. Consider a big foam board to catch the waves easily and ensure you don't get hurt if you spend the entire day falling off your board.

Wetsuits

Once you get your surfboard, all you really need next is an excellent wetsuit. Most wetsuits costs between $125 to $358 or more. Make sure you purchase one that's within your budget. Talk to surfers in your area to find out what kind of wetsuit you need. You may find out that you may not even need one.

Instead, you can wear several rash guards or boardshorts in the beginning. This will help you save money from buying a wetsuit since they're cheaper than wetsuits. But if you plan on surfing in cold water, you want to be as warm as possible. A good wetsuit allows you to stay in the water for as long as possible without freezing.

Surfing Lessons

The average surfing lesson costs between $25 to $100 depending on the popularity of the lessons and where you live. Surfing lessons that run one to two hours cost between $10 and $20 in small areas. In larger areas, you may pay between $20 to $70 per hour. While there are surf shops that provide free lessons, it's part of their promotion to get you to buy some of their equipment.

The surfing lesson usually lasts between one to two hours. Depending on which lesson you get, you may get a half day or full day of instruction. You may be required to bring your own surfboard and wetsuit to the lesson. There are also instances that the price may include the rental of the surfboard and wetsuit, but these packages cost hundreds of dollars.

Other Equipment

You have your surfboard and your wetsuit, but what about other equipment? The only other thing you may need is a surboard leash, surfboard wax, and a surfboard traction pad to keep your board grippy. Any other equipment is completely optional at this point.

There are surfers who spend a lot of money on their lifestyle. In the beginning, you should treat surfing as a hobby. As you get better you can treat it as a lifestyle. Some surfers join surfing competitions to help fund their expensive lifestyles.

You may spend around $600 to $700 for new surfing gear. Surfing can be a cheap hobby or an expensive lifestyle depending on how devoted you are to it. Surfing can be expensive for the beginner, especially if you live near the coast. The cost of a pool may be cheaper and easier to use.

About The Author

Follow

stash member Vincent Stokes

Vincent Stokes is an outdoor enthusiast and an experienced world traveler. He also writes writes for the National Parks and works to promote pride in homegrown travel destinations. (@TravelingGlobal)