Winter surfing has a certain liberating freshness. It is the sensation of walking through freshly fallen snow with a surfboard wedged under one arm before plunging into chilly shallows. It’s a freeing sensation that can only be experienced by those who are brave enough to venture out into the cold waters. But if the temperature is too cold for surfing, leave and return next time.
What temperature is too cold for surfing? Temperature below 10°C is too cold for surfing. There are many reasons why surfing is not recommended when the temperature is too cold. Among those are cold shock and hypothermia.
While winter surfing is a great way to enjoy the big, heavy waves, you should also know what temperature is too cold for surfing. When the water reaches this temperature, it’s better to reschedule your activity since there are always other days to ride the waves.
Don’t Go Too Cold
There comes the point where the water becomes too cold, although wetsuits is the answer on how to stay warm surfing in winter. Beyond a specific temperature, the human body cannot generate enough heat to offset the coldness of the water, no matter how many layers of neoprene you are wearing. At this point, hypothermia sets in and becomes a very real danger.
Surfing in winter can be a very comfortable and enjoyable experience if the water temperature is in the 50°F/10°C range. But, many parts of the world have much colder water temperatures, making surfing uncomfortable.
If the water temperature is within 62-degree (17°C), you can surf for more than 30 minutes even without a wetsuit. But, you should wear one once the water drops 45-degree and below.
Tips To Keep You Warm While Winter Surfing
Suit Up
Hypothermia can kill almost unnoticed, so wearing the right gear for winter surfing is vital. Here are some signs and treatments of hypothermia to stay safe in cold conditions.
A quality winter suit is paramount. If you’re going to surf during the cold season, you must have a 5/4 or a 6/5/4. It is essential to check your suit before paddling out, looking for any tears or issues with the seams. Additionally, look for areas where the material might be thinning due to wear and tear. It will help ensure that you stay dry and comfortable while surfing.
The time is now to get that hood on, wear winter boots on your feet and break out the gloves. Warmth is going to be your best friend on a cold surfing day. A full wetsuit in excellent condition and all the other accessories will help keep you warm.
Wax On
Swap out the warm water surf wax if you want a cold-water version. Surf wax made for warm water will become hard in cold weather and provide less traction. It is a mistake that can be easily made and ruin your session. It puts you in danger if you can’t stop slipping from your board.
Don’t Push It If the Temperature Is Too Cold for Surfing
An excellent surf session doesn’t fit with the typical rules of time. Time seems to go by when the waves are good. But what temperature is considered cold in Australia for surfing? If the temperature is below 10°C, it’s too cold for surfing. Don’t overextend yourself. Be mindful of your body’s response to the cold at all times.
You will sooner or later feel the chill because water conducts heat away; at this point, you should go back inside. The waves will still be available when you are ready to go surfing another day because winter is a very long season.
Also read: