As a longtime surfer, I’ve learned that having the appropriate gear can make all the difference out on��the water. Whether it’s a too thin or too thick wetsuit, a bikini top that needs constant readjusting, or a hat that won’t stay put, finicky equipment can impact your performance. And in a male-dominant sport, it can be difficult to find gear designed specifically for women. But after years of researching and testing the best products in the business, I keep coming back to these women-designed pieces.��Because when you’re in the lineup,��all you should have to focus on is catching waves, and this gear helps me do that.

Kassia+Surf Psychedelic Full Suit ($400)

In a sea of black neoprene, it’s��refreshing to wear a wetsuit that stands out. Designed by professional surfer Kassia Meador, the three-millimeter��Psychedelic has everything you’d expect in a solid wetsuit (comfort, warmth, and flexibility), with��funky, fun flair. It features infrared lining on the torso, taped and glued seams, two neck-flap enclosures, and smooth��neoprene over the chest and back—a combination that, the brand claims,��makes it ideal for water temperatures from 48 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. While other suits take a while to break in, the Psychedelic was comfortable from the get-go and has proven to be a fun conversation starter in the lineup. In an effort to keep the business as sustainable as possible, Kassia+Surf offers a that converts old suits into yoga mats.

Seea��Lido One-Piece��($125)

On days when the surf is firing—or when I’m feeling more modest—it’s nice to have a reliable one-piece that I know will stay in place no matter how big the wave or wipeout. Reminiscent of beachwear��from a different decade, the Lido features a high neckline, full-coverage bottom,��and deep V-back, and it offers UPF 30+ protection. Made from Seea’s heavyweight C-Skin fabric, the suit is constructed from a��blend of polyester and spandex��yet feels like��lightweight neoprene. The extra coverage and secure fit of this retro suit have made it my go-to option for long summer sessions��on the water.��

Carve Designs Saluda Tight ($62)

I��normally prefer wearing either wetsuits or bikinis, but sometimes I want something in between. Cue Carve Designs’��Saluda tight. Made from a soft, lightweight combination of nylon and spandex, it offers UPF 50 protection for sunny days when I want a little extra shielding from the sun between sets. Also perfect for beach workouts or quick coverage after��a chilly session, the Saluda has��become a staple in my surf wardrobe.

Sensi Graves��Claire Bikini Top ($58)

Professional kiteboarder and surfer is in the business of making bikinis for women who rip, and the Claire top is a prime example of her work. Made from recycled ocean plastics and spandex, this fully lined top features a scoop neck, thick straps, a double cross��back, and cut-out holes in the front that allow water to pass through. Whether I’m wearing it on its own or under a wetsuit, the snug fit and crisscross straps��ensure it stays put without sacrificing style.

Atmosea Stardust Spring Suit ($240)

Based in Byron Bay, Australia, Atmosea is all about making unique, functional wetsuits for women surfers. While a full suit is ideal during the colder months, it’s nice to have an in-between option for the shoulder seasons. Atmosea hit the nail on the head with its one-millimeter spring suit. Standout features include a high neckline for added protection and warmth, an adjustable arm length (you can cut off the sleeves at your desired length at three different stitch points), back-zip entry, and a waist panel for a flattering silhouette. Since it’s thinner than traditional spring suits, it easily conformed to my body shape, allowing a snug fit while still offering plenty of flexibility. Designed��by a company that’s centered around female��empowerment, and with style points to boot, the Stardust is a winner.��

Kaiola Surf Hat ($60)

When I’m not in the water, I’m big on hats. But when it comes to surfing, riding waves while trying to keep my hat in place always seemed like an excessive challenge—until I discovered Kaiola’s surf hat. Available in two sizes, it offers UPF 80 protection and has��an adjustable chin strap. The body is made from 100 percent recycled nylon, and the front panel is 100 percent polyester. The fit is secure yet comfortable, and I appreciate the fact that the visor flips up, giving me better visibility when paddling.��You can also tuck away the chin strap��inside the hat, allowing for an easy transition from the lineup to land.��

Sagebrush Board Bag ($130 and Up)

Aside from my car, my surfboards��are��my most prized possessions, so I do my best to keep them��protected from the elements. Sagebrush’s bags��have kept my boards (and me)��happy. Designed in Southern California by freesurfer Anna Ehrgott,��these bags are built to withstand dings and scratches��and are eco-friendly: the body is made from vintage fabric, and the tip is made with used coffee-bean sacks from organic, fair-trade coffee roasters around the world. They come in a variety of styles and colors and are suitable for boards ranging from five feet��six inches to ten feet. I get compliments on my bag on a regular basis, and unlike a board sock, these bags are sturdier and easier to slip on.

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Surf wax first gained popularity in 1935 when Los Angeles native Alfred “Al” Gallant Jr. to the deck of his board and found that it greatly improved his stability.��Ever since, wax has become its own corner of the surf industry and the go-to traction tool for millions of wave riders around the world.��

But there’s more to applying wax than just swiping and swimming out. We spoke to some experts to round up everything you need to know about choosing and applying��surf wax.

Choosing Your Wax

When it comes to selecting the right wax, it’s not one-size-fits-all.��Sticky Bumps marketing director Riley Mallard says that when your board is fresh, you’ll want to start by applying a base: a harder wax like ($9 for three) or ��($5) will help prevent the top coat from rubbing off while you shred. This will last a while—it��should only be applied on a new board or one that’s��been freshly stripped of wax. The top coat, a softer and temperature-specific product like ($15 for six) or ($7), should be reapplied before each session.

When selecting top-coat wax, it’s important to factor in the water temperature to get��maximum grip and keep it from��melting. The type—tropical, warm, cool, and cold—and temperature range for each wax will be listed on the label, so pick the right one based on where you’re headed. If you live or surf in a place where��the ocean temperature fluctuates from��season to season,��you’ll want to rotate your waxes seasonally. And��if you’re planning a surf trip, research ahead of time to ensure you pack the correct one.

Although wax is a key tool for surfers, it can also��have a negative impact on the environment. “Traditional waxes use paraffin, chemicals, and resin-based ingredients—it’s like placing gasoline and oil on your board and going into the ocean,” says Matt Mattoon, founder of Matunas Surf Wax. The chemicals in traditional waxes can not only ��but also affect��the health of the surfer, as they are not biodegradable and can be toxic if ingested. To reduce your carbon footprint and protect marine life, consider purchasing an eco-friendly one from brands like ��or��, which are made from natural ingredients like beeswax, clay, and coconut oil. You can also��.

How to Apply It

“When you have a new board, you’ll want to start with base coat and do nice, light circles going rail to rail and then tail to tail,” says Mallard. “The idea is that you’re switching direction—if you constantly wax in one direction, you’re never going to get all those amazing little bumps that give you great traction.”��For most setups, it’s not necessary to apply wax all over. You only need to apply it in the zones��where you’ll be placing your feet and under your chest, with a little extra coverage for wiggle room.��If you longboard and plan on doing some nose riding, apply wax down the entire length of the board so you can walk��around with ease.��

According to Mallard, if��your board is laden with pressure��dings, you’ll want to use a crosshatch method instead to ensure the wax is sticking to the board. Starting with your base coat, form a diagonal crosshatch pattern on the riding portion of the board. Next, apply the top coat in a small, circular motion over the crosshatched area until obvious bumps form.��

How to Remove Wax from a Surfboard

You don’t need to remove wax from your board and reapply it between sessions. According to Mallard, you’ll know it’s time to strip your board when your wax is dirty or begins flaking off—typically every week or two if you’re surfing daily,��although many surfers go much longer. Travel is also a good opportunity to strip your board and start fresh, as you’ll likely be surfing in a different climate, and your wax could melt inside your travel bag en route.��

To remove the��wax, simply cover the waxed portion of your board with a generous amount of sand and leave it in the hot sun for a few minutes until it melts. Then��scrape it clean with a or an old credit card. To get any residual wax off, pour onto a microfiber cloth or an old T-shirt, and wipe the board until it’s clean. Now you’re ready to apply another coat and get out there again.

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