Surf Talk Guru

If you’re surfing multiple days in a row, you can get rubbed raw from all the paddling. Protect your armpits and nearby areas by investing in a rash guard. Rash guards come in many styles: long- and short-sleeves, low and high necks, and even hooded. An added benefit of rash guards is warmth. As your wetsuit gets older, it loses its ability to keep you warm. A rash guard will add warmth and help you get the most time out of your wetsuit.

Many people are starting to wear rash guard shorts. These are usually Lycra shorts that also help prevent chafing and increase warmth. Xcel wetsuits has a good line of rash guards of all different styles. Also keep in mind that rash guards get worn out over time, so they may need to be replaced if they’re not giving you the protection they once were.

As the winter weather kicks up the action in the Pacific Nortwest, the surf scene takes on a different look as well. Beginners, tourists and longboards are seen less and big wave surfers, tow in surfers and waverunners begin to appear.

Regardless of how strong of a paddler you are, it is just not possible to make it outside when the swell is much more than 10ft. This can leave you standing on the beach with perfect conditions and nowhere to surf. If you find yourself wishing you could make outside to those larger waves, consider a tow in surfing lesson.