Which Leg Does a Surf Leash Go On?

Before entering the water you need to know which leg does a surf leash go on. Well the good news is there are only two so it’s a 50/50 chance you'll get it right! 

Always attach your surfboard leash to your backfoot!  

Which Leg Does a Surf Leash Go On?

A surf leash is worn on the back leg while surfing, regardless of whether you're of regular or goofy stance. 

Understanding which leg does a surf leash go on is an essential when you are learning to surf. Having trouble with a good surf leash, view our list of the Best Surfboard Leashes on the market in 2024! 

Regular Stance

In the regular stance, which is the more conventional and widespread positioning among surfers, individuals opt to place their left foot forward on the surfboard, aligning themselves to face the oncoming waves. 

This stance, characterised by a left-foot-forward orientation, is favoured by many due to its natural feel and widespread adoption within the surfing community.

Goofy Stance

Contrasting the regular stance, the goofy stance involves a surfing orientation where the surfer strategically places their right foot forward on the board. 

This alternative posture, while less common, is widely embraced by a significant number of surfers who find a sense of comfort, balance, and natural alignment with this right-foot-forward approach, making it a popular choice in the diverse world of surfing styles.

Which leg does a surf leash go on will depend on your stance so its important to first understand your stance, before thinking about your leash. Here is a helpful surfboard leash video for those of you that are visual learners. 

Surf Leash Leg or Knee?

Knowing which leg does a surf leash go on is vital but also where is important. When it comes to attaching a surf leash, the common and recommended placement is on the back leg. This positioning provides optimal control and manoeuvrability while riding waves. 

Attaching the leash just above the ankle allows surfers to maintain balance and freely move their front foot for turns and manoeuvres. However, some like to place the surf leash on their knee, ankle or knee if it's the back leg you're in the green! 

How To Put a Surf Leash On

To properly secure your surfboard leash, start by ensuring you have the appropriate leash for your board, considering factors such as length and thickness. As you stand at the water's edge, before entering the surf, affix the leash securely around your back leg.

Tighten the velcro strap to ensure a snug fit without any coiling or excessive slack. Once properly fastened, dive into the water, ready to enjoy a safe and exhilarating surfing experience with your board securely attached.

Parts of the Leash

• Ankle Cuff: Padded strap that fastens around the surfer's ankle, typically secured with Velcro.
• Leash Cord: The elongated section connecting the ankle cuff to the surfboard's leash plug.
• Swivel: A rotating mechanism integrated into the leash cord to prevent tangling and enhance manoeuvrability.
• Leash Plug: Located on the tail of the surfboard, this is where the leash cord attaches to the board.
• Quick-Release Tab: Some ankle cuffs feature a tab for easy and rapid detachment in emergency situations.
• Velcro Strap: Commonly used to secure the ankle cuff, allowing for adjustable and secure fastening.

Purpose of a Surf Leash

A surf leash, also known as a leg rope, serves a vital role in ensuring both the surfer's safety and the protection of their surfboard. 

The primary purpose of a surf leash is to keep the surfer connected to their board, preventing it from drifting away in the surf. In the event of a wipeout or fall, the leash minimises the risk of the board being carried away by the waves, allowing the surfer to quickly retrieve it and resume riding. 

This not only prevents potential hazards to other surfers but also avoids the inconvenience of constantly swimming back to retrieve a loose board. The surf leash is an indispensable tool for surfers of all skill levels, contributing to a safer and more enjoyable surfing experience.

Do People Not Use a Surf Leash? 

While some experienced surfers may choose not to use a surf leash, it's essential to understand the associated risks. Surf leash history shows they were designed in the 1970's to keep surfers connected to their boards, preventing boards from becoming hazards in the water. 

Surfers who opt not to use a leash run the risk of losing their board during wipeouts or challenging conditions. This not only poses a safety concern for the surfer but also creates potential dangers for others in the lineup. 

Additionally, retrieving a loose board without a leash can be time-consuming and energy-draining, impacting the overall surfing experience. While experienced surfers may prefer the freedom of not using a leash, it's crucial to weigh the safety implications and consider the well-being of both the individual and fellow surfers in the water.

Choosing a Leash

Selecting the right surf leash is a critical decision for any surfer. Leashes come in various lengths, thicknesses, and materials, catering to different surfing conditions and preferences. When choosing a leash, consider the size of the waves you'll be riding – longer leashes are suitable for larger waves, while shorter ones are ideal for smaller conditions.

The thickness of the leash is also a factor, with thicker leashes offering more durability but potentially more drag. Additionally, the material of the cord and the quality of the cuff and swivel are essential aspects to evaluate. 

A comfortable and secure ankle cuff, along with a reliable swivel, ensures ease of movement and minimises the risk of tangles. Ultimately, selecting the right surf leash involves finding a balance between your surfing style, the wave conditions, and the leash's design to enhance both safety and performance in the water.

Summing It Up: What To Do Now

Nice! Now you can confidently head out for a surf knowing which leg does a surf leash go on.

If your interested in learning more about surfing discover our many guides that will inform you on your surfing journey. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook & Instagram to stay informed on our amazing surf shots and stories shared from surf creators around the world!