Leashes

Start with your board length, not your height. Our general starting point is a leash at least as long as your surfboard: a 6ft leash for a 6ft board or a 9ft leash for a 9ft board. If your board sits between those lengths, compare the next length up.

Check the individual leash's recommended board length and intended conditions before choosing, since model-specific sizing can differ. Length is only one part of the choice; cord thickness and cuff fit matter too.

Compare the actual cord thickness and wave rating, rather than choosing by the name alone. A comp leash is typically a lighter option: the Creatures Superlite Comp 6 has a 6mm cord and is designed for small to medium waves.

The Creatures Reliance 2.0 Standard Duty uses a 7mm cord and is rated for medium to large waves. Those are model-specific ratings, not a rule that every 6mm or 7mm leash has the same intended use.

Choose a leash designed for the conditions and board you plan to surf. When the intended use calls for heavier-duty equipment, compare the manufacturer's wave rating, cord construction and attachment system instead of simply buying a longer comp leash.

For example, the Stay Covered XL Heavy Duty has an 8mm cord and hand-tied construction. Its manufacturer describes use on a step-up surfboard in larger surf. Dedicated big-wave surf leashes are a separate category; check their specifications and ask us for help matching your surfboard and conditions.

Both cuff styles are available for longboards. An ankle leash fastens around your ankle; a knee or calf leash places the cuff higher on your lower leg. Compare the fit and placement you prefer along with the leash's length and intended conditions.

The Creatures Reliance Longboard Ankle is a 9ft, 7mm model for small to medium waves. The Reliance 2.0 Longboard HD Knee is a 10ft, 8mm model rated for large waves. The cuff is not the only difference, so compare the whole leash rather than treating these as interchangeable options.

Look for a cuff designed to fit a smaller ankle, then match the leash length and wave rating to the board and conditions. Creatures' Slim Ankle Fit models use a shorter cuff for groms and surfers with slimmer ankles.

The Reliance 2.0 Lite Duty Grom Slim Ankle has a 5ft, 5mm cord rated for small waves. A Standard Duty Slim option has a 6ft, 7mm cord rated for medium to large waves. A smaller cuff does not mean every model has the same length or intended use.

With a traditional leash-string attachment, keep the string short enough that the wider rail saver contacts the board's rail, rather than the thin string. A string that hangs too far past the tail can concentrate the load and damage the rail.

Our surfboard leash attachment guide shows the difference with photos. If your leash uses a different connection system, follow that model's instructions; newer Creatures Reliance 2.0 models use a no-knot Quick Connect system.

Follow the care instructions for your leash and check it for wear or damage. Slater Designs' Comp Leash care guidance calls for a fresh-water rinse after use to remove salt and sand, storage in a cool, dry place, and regular inspection.

Replace a leash when inspection shows wear or damage. There is no single replacement schedule in that guidance, so don't judge condition only by the leash's age.