Here are the products and services that I recommend.
I've used most of these products personally and I replace any recommendations after I find something better.
Surf Poncho
Slowtide
I've tried a few ponchos, but I keep coming back to this one.
The material is thick and warm, perfect for cold days.
My favorite feature is the pocket in the front. There is an internal pocket to hold my wallet and keys, but the rest of the pocket is open so I can reach the buttons and zipper on my shorts.
This makes it super easy to change.
I also use this poncho as a beach blanket and is longer than most towels.
Soft Top Surfboards
When I was growing up, you were a kook if you had a soft top board. But today, the quality of these boards has improved dramatically and it's perfectly fine for anyone to ride a soft top. In some situations, they can be better than a fiberglass board.
Here are the 2 that I like best.
Catch Surf
Catch Surf has a wide range of boards to fit any break or wave preference.
I personally like their blank fish shapes, pictured to the left.
But they also have longboards, shortboards, bodyboards and even handboards.
They are constantly updating their designs, so be sure to check them out if you're just getting started, or you're looking for a board to add to your quiver.
Wavestorm
This is a great board for beginners or anyone who wants to catch waves on really small days.
They are relatively inexpensive and well made.
It's my go to board on small days and I like that I don't have to worry about it getting dinged, as much as I would with a fiberglass board.
Depending on where you live, you may even be able to get these delivered to you.
Bodyboards
These companies have consistently made quality boards and continue to do so.
- Science Bodyboards – Currently my favorite bodyboards. They are very well made and 9X word champ Mike Stewart is always thinking up new designs.
- Hubboards – The brothers Hubbard have a total of 13 world championships between them and make fantastic boards too.
- GT Boards – A solid lineup from 6X world champ Guilherme Tâmega. I was in the water with GT once on the North Shore of Oahu. He was a beast in his prime.
- Manta Bodyboards – I had a Manta in high school and it was one of my favorite boards of all time. Very well made and reliable.
- Morey – The original bodyboard company. They are a fantastic option, especially for lower priced models.
- Tribe Bodyboards – These boards are created by bodyboarding legends Jay and Vicki Reale. They have the most affordable Polypropylene bodyboard you'll find anywhere.
Board Repair
These products are easy ways to repair your boards.
- Solarez: Repair dings in your fiberglass surfboard easily. Clean out the ding, put this in the hole, then let it cure in the sun. Simple and fast.
- Sponge-Rez: This will repair tears, creases and skin delamination. It's also great for installing leash plugs and repairing swim fins. Do not use with EPS foam, everything else it OK.