Cool weather surfing can be a wonderful experience with calm waves and fewer crowds. The key is to ensure you have the right gear: a fitted wetsuit, neoprene booties, gloves, a hood, and cold-water wax. Always pack warm layers so you don’t freeze when you get out of the water. With a little preparation, this is a great time of year for surf lessons with Malibu Makos.
Sunshine and warm water may be any surfer’s ideal day at the beach, but the waves are still waving—even when the temperature drops. Many of those who venture out when the chill sets in find it to be some of their best sessions. The crowds are thinner and the water is calm. It is perfect for surfing, especially for learning as beginners, as long as you have all the right gear.
Hang loose. We have a surfing gear checklist that has everything you need to prepare for the cooler conditions. You will stay warm, safe, and stoked.
A Wetsuit
If you have ever seen surfers or divers, then you have likely seen some of them in a wetsuit. This is not for appearance or aesthetics—it actually serves a purpose. Upon entering the ocean, the suit immediately traps a thin layer of water between your skin and its outer layer. Your body warms it up, creating a barrier against colder temperatures, so that you can enjoy your time in the ocean.
Of course, not all wetsuits are created equal. This is something to pay attention to if you are investing in one of your own. In the fall, a 3/2mm full suit will work just fine. This gives you 3mm of protection in the torso, 2mm in the arms and legs. However, as you head into December and January, for instance, it will get colder. Allow yourself to keep surfing with a 4/3mm wetsuit, as it will give you some extra warmth.
Pro tip: Find one that fits just right. It should feel snug without feeling super tight. Let’s keep water out—not cut off your circulation. Rent or try on various brands and sizes to ensure you find the best fit.
Neoprene Booties
What do you do about frigid toes? This isn’t always everyone’s first thought until they spend some time in the lineup. The water can be cold, and your feet will feel it. Imagine your frozen feet as you try to stand on the board and balance. Yikes!
You need neoprene booties—another essential item on your surfing gear checklist for cooler months. And they should always be worn when the temps drop below 65 degrees.
Pro tip: A 3mm to 5mm pair of booties will keep you warm and functioning as normal with your board. Choose those with a thin sole for extra flexibility. They should fit well enough to prevent water from pooling inside.
Gloves
Your feet are not the only extremity you should be worrying about. You want to keep your hands warm, too. Think about it—they are in and out of the water the entire time you are out surfing, so they can lose heat fast. Thankfully, neoprene gloves are available to keep them warm. Consider 2mm or 3mm gloves, based on how frigid the water is. You’ll be glad you have them.
Pro tip: Sometimes gloves can feel weird at first, but don’t ditch them. The more you wear them, the more comfortable you will get. There is no denying how much they will benefit your surf sessions, too.
A Hood
If you have never thought you would be surfing while wearing a hood, think again. When you go out in cold weather, you put on a coat or sweater, and usually grab a hat or a cap. After all, a lot of body heat is lost through your head. Covering it helps to regulate body temperature.
When it comes to surfing in colder weather and colder water, wearing a neoprene hood is a game-changer. It will allow you to enjoy your surfing session much, much longer.
Pro tip: Try your hood on with your wetsuit. You want to make sure it fits with the wetsuit’s neck to create an effective seal and a comfortable fit. Size matters because if you get one that is too big, cold water will come in.
Cold Water Surfboard Wax
Surfboard wax is a necessity for better control, better traction, and fewer slips on a pop-up. But the stuff you use during the summer months doesn’t work so well in the winter. You need to switch to cold-water surf wax, which is specially formulated to give you a strong grip in cold water.
Pro tip: Just make sure you get it.
Warm Layers
When you are by the ocean, the breeze can be quite dramatic. In cooler months, the windy conditions can feel quite shocking as you step out of the water. This means you will want warm layers both in and out of the water.
As you go through your checklist, be sure to pack a dry, oversized towel or even a robe. Then, use a hoodie or an insulated jacket to stay warm. Doing this will also help your body recover and prevent the chills from setting in.
Pro tip: Bring along a hot thermos with a warm beverage. You will be grateful for this one, as you heat yourself from the inside out.
Take Surf Lessons This Season With Malibu Makos
Now that you have your surfing gear checklist for cooler months, why would you let the opportunity for surf lessons pass you by? Cooler months in Malibu come with calm water conditions and empty beaches. You now know what to do to keep yourself warm—and our expert surf instructors will help.
If you can picture yourself paddling out into the ocean on a chilly day while feeling warm head to toe, then let’s make it happen. Join us at Malibu Makos, located at Zuma Beach, for private or group surf lessons, gear guidance, and a truly unforgettable experience.
