GOOD

One of the good things about surfing is that once you have invested in a surfboard and wet-suit, expenses are minimal. The bare necessities are a surfboard, some decent wax to avoid slipping and, in most of the world, a wet-suit. Prices of surfboards and wet-suits vary greatly but, as is true of most things, you usually get what you pay for. If you plan to take up surfing as a permanent hobby, it is definitely worth paying a little extra for high quality products. Wax can be purchased cheaply from surfing shops, usually for less than £10. Many suppliers will throw in wax for free if you are buying a surf-board or other  relatively expensive item


-You shouldn't need to buy many more things in order to get started, but you might want to consider:

• Board wax: Board wax is important because, without it, balancing on your board whilst standing up will be next to impossible. The good news is that it is relatively cheap. One tube should cost you less than £10 and will last for a good length of time.
• Board leash: Surfboards should come with a leash attached to them. The purpose of leashes is to ensure that you do not lose your board if you wipe-out and are forced to let go of your board. Before leashes were used, it was not uncommon for a surfer to lose his/her board and be forced to swim back to shore without it. Loose boards were also hazardous for other surfers in the area. If your original leash becomes detached and you lose it, you can buy a replacement from surfing suppliers (N.B. You should be aware that leashes are designed as safety nets, and you should surf as though you are not wearing one. You should never let go of your board and rely on your leash unless absolutely necessary because of the danger this can pose to other surfers and swimmers).
• Surfboard repair kit: These usually cost around £15 and include instructions and tools designed to help you fix minor 'dings' on your board yourself.
• Suncream: This is an essential! It is very easy to burn whilst surfing, so plenty of suncream should be applied at the first sign of the Sun.
• Ear-plugs: If you find that your ears often become filled with sea water after wipe-outs, a cheap and easy answer is to buy some ear-plugs. There is no need to go to a surf shop for these. They can be bought at chemists or supermarkets for as little as a couple of pounds.
• Surfboard bags: If you have to travel to the beach to surf, it might be worth investing in a surf bag to protect your board when you are out of the water. Prices vary according to the length of your board, but a bag will probably set you back somewhere in the region of £30.

- E-MAIL FROM SAM ASHWORTH , ABERSOCH BOARDRIDER