7 Best Surfboard Leashes for 2024
Surfboard leashes have come a long way, and we’re fortunate to have a wide variety of options to choose from. Depending on the size of the waves you’re surfing and your skill level, there’s a specific surf leash for you - from the longboarder hanging 10 to the shortboard aerialist. In this blog, we'll dive into the best surf leashes of 2024, exploring the latest innovations and designs ranging from shortboard to mid-length to big wave gun leashes. Finding the right surfboard leash for your situation is key to an enjoyable and safe session.
Leashes Reviewed
- Dakine Pro Comp Leash - $30.00
- Dakine Kainui Team Leash - $33.00
- Dakine Kaimana Team Leash - $48.00
- FCS Freedom Helix All Round Leash - $58.00
- Pro-Lite Freesurf Leash - $34.00
- FCS All Round Essential Leash - $42.00
- Hotline Stage 3 Leash - $33.95
Surf Leash FAQ
Before we go any further, let’s chat about some commonly asked questions.
What length of surfboard leash do I need?
When choosing a leash length, a key factor is to get one that is the same length as your surfboard. For example, a 8 ft. leash is recommended for an 8 ft. surfboard. A leash that’s shorter than your surfboard could be a hazard.
What type of surfboard leashes are there?
The industry's most common surfboard leashes are the Competition (or Comp for short), All round / Standard, Longboard, and Big Wave.
- Competition - 4.5-5mm thick: thinner, lightweight, and caters to competitive surfers.
- All round / Standard - 5.5-7mm thick: a reliable leash for a variety of conditions.
- Longboard - 7mm thick: longer and thicker to handle the weight and length of a longboard.
- Big Wave - 8mm+ thick: bulkier, stronger leash built to withstand the impact of big waves.
What’s the difference between an ankle and calf leash?
An ankle leash is used primarily for shortboards, fun boards, and mid-length boards. The leash attaches to the surfer at the ankle. A calf leash is used for longboards who like to dance up and down the board. Since the leash attaches to the surf on the calf, it sits up higher and isn’t in the way when moving around on the board.
Next up, we’ll walk through each leash option, starting with a Comp and ending with a Big Wave model.
Dakine Pro Comp Leash - $30.00
The Dakine Pro Comp surf leash is a great option for a shortboarder surfing ankle-to-shoulder high waves. With a thin 5mm urethane chord, little to no drag is present while surfing. The Pro Comp also includes Opti-Flex ends and a urethane Dura-Cord for maximum durability. One of my favorite things about the Pro Comp is the variety of color schemes to choose from. At $30, you can’t go wrong with this budget-friendly shortboard leash.
Highlights and Features
- Lightweight
- Low Drag
- Ankle leash
- 5mm thick
- Cord length: 6 ft
Dakine Kainui Team Leash - $33.00
“Maximum Strength"
The Kainui Team leash is built to withstand the harshest of conditions. With the highest quality urethane dura-chord, you won’t have to worry about this leash breaking - not even in double overhead waves.
The stainless steel swivels and Opti-Flex ends are another two features that maximize the strength. Some customers consider this leash stiff at first; however, once it gets pulled a couple of times, it loosens up nicely. If you need a strong leash for big swells or to protect your precious boards, check out the Kainui leash on our today!
Highlights and Features
- High strength
- Variety of size and color options
- Ankle Leash
- 6.5mm thick
- Cord Length: 6-8 ft.
Dakine Kaimana Team Leash - $48.00
“Head High & Above Best Friend"
The Dakine Kaimana is far from being considered a dinky leash. With the 100% marine grade stainless steel and Dura-Cord, this leash does not disappoint. While surfing those bigger swells, it is important to have a trusty leash for safety, and the Kaimana leash is a go, too option. What makes the Kaimana stand out from the Kainui? The zero distractions ankle cuff and ergonomic base plate make the Kaimana excel in the comfortability factor.
Highlights and Features
- Sleek fit
- Comfortable ankle cuff
- Ankle Leash
- 6.5mm thick
- Cord Length: 6-8 ft.
FCS Freedom Helix All Round Leash - $58.00
“Next-level tech"
The FCS Freedom Helix is another great leash for anyone looking for the best of the best. In fact, it's the only leash featured that’s offered in 3 styles: Comp, All Round, and Longboard Calf.
FCS did a full redesign while creating the Helix surfboard leash. With a focus on a naturally sourced corn-based material, a lightweight cuff, and durability, the Freedom Helix is well worth the investment. You’ll probably forget you even have a leash attached to your ankle due to the thin cord and super comfortable ankle cuff.
A couple of my favorite features include the silicone grip, which reduces slip, and the reinforced horn that prevents tangling. It is also a stylish leash with multiple colors to choose from.
Highlights and Features
- Sustainably made
- Reinforced Horn
- Ankle and Calf Leash options
- 6.5mm thick
- Cord Length: 6-9 ft.
Pro-Lite Freesurf Leash - $34.00
“Strong Reputation"
Pro-Lite built the Freesurf leash for waves ranging from small to overhead. It is one of the best options for a leash that accommodates a variety of conditions. With the lightweight, tough urethane and 7mm of thickness, this leash might initially seem a little bulky, but it is as strong as an Ox.
Another key feature of this leash is the stainless steel double swivel. The swivel helps the leash to spin smoothly and prevent tangles from happening. Like most leashes, this surf leash excels after a couple of times of using it.
Highlights and Features
- Comfortable
- Durable
- 7mm thick
- Ankle leash
- Cord Length: 6-10 ft.
FCS All Round Essential Leash - $42.00
“Everything you need"
The FCS All-Round Essential surfboard leash is one of my all-time favorites. The leash has a sleek look and feel to it. With a focus on comfortability and durability, this leash has everything you need and nothing you don’t.
Out of the multiple features offered, the silicone grip cuff and extended-over mold are my two favorites. Another key feature is the contoured horn swivel that keeps the leash from tangling.
Highlights and Features
- Light weight
- Reliable
- Ankle and Calf leash options
- 7mm thick
- Cord Length: 6-10 ft.
Hotline Stage 3 Leash - $33.95
“Bang for your Buck"
The Hotline Stage 3 is a great leash if you’re looking for a high-quality option at a reasonable cost. It’s by far the most durable leash on this blog and is an employee favorite here at Cleanline. In fact, many of our rental surfboards are complemented by the Hotline Stage 3.
The Stage 3 isn’t as high-tech as some surfboard leashes mentioned in this blog; however, it’s a classic with everything you need. Each leash is hand-tied here in the US and uses a premium- grade urethane cord, also made in the US. Lastly, the durable anti-corrosive swivel is tough enough to withstand the saltwater ocean year after year.
Highlights and Features
- Strong and durable
- Hand tied in the US
- Ankle and Knee leash options
- 8mm thick
- Cord Length: 6-12 ft.
Final Thoughts
Well, that is a wrap for our 7 best surfboard leashes of 2024. A surfboard leash is a lifeline, and it is important to purchase one or two that will keep you and your precious quiver safe.
You may be asking, how do I choose a surfboard leash? Whether you prioritize durability, flexibility, or enhanced safety features, the surf leashes mentioned in this blog offer a range of options to choose from. Most durable? Consider the Hotline Stage 3. Most eco-friendly? Check out the FCS Helix. Or are you looking to throw airs and need something lightweight? The Dakine Pro Comp is your pick.
Here's to an epic year of surfing ahead, tethered to the 7 best leashes that 2024 has to offer! If you have any leash questions, you can always call us at 1-888-546-6176, drop a comment below, or send an email to support@cleanlinesurf.com.
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