10 Surf Accessories Every Surfer Should Own: From Fins to Wetsuits

While anyone can learn to surf with practice and passion, mastering it takes more than just skill. It starts with having the right gear. The right surfing accessories can boost your performance, make your sessions more convenient, and extend the life of your equipment.

Pensacola’s surf scene is full of that coastal energy we love, but every good day on the water starts with gear you can count on. If you're looking to stay out longer, surf smarter, and ride safer, having the right surf accessories makes all the difference.

Not sure where to start? That’s where we come in. Here’s a breakdown of 10 must-have surf accessories that surfers often wish they’d picked up sooner.

Essential Surfboard Accessories That Boost Your Ride

A solid fin setup, the right wax, and quality traction pads are non-negotiable.

1. Surfboard Fins

Fins help you stay stable, build speed, and control your board. Different styles suit different boards and wave conditions. 

  • Single fins work best on longboards for smoother turns and less drag.

  • Twin fins are great for shortboards and faster rides in smaller surf.

  • Thrusters (tri-fin) are popular for their control and stability.

  • Quad fins add speed and lift for looser, more aggressive riding.

We stock fins from top brands like Futures and FCS right here at Waterboyz.

2. Surfboard Wax

Surfboard wax creates friction on the board’s surface, helping surfers maintain grip and balance while riding waves. Surfers can slip away without it, compromising safety. Select the appropriate wax for water temperature. 

  • Use softer wax for cold water. 

  • Use harder wax for warm water. 

Remove old wax before each session and apply a fresh layer for maximum grip.

3. Surfboard Traction Pads

When the water’s warm, wax can wear thin. That’s why a lot of surfers add traction pads. They give you extra grip when you’re pushing harder or staying out longer.

Gear That Protects Your Investment

FCS Travel 3 surfboard bag with handles and zippers for easy transport, available at Waterboyz.

Let’s face it: surfboards aren’t cheap. Keeping them in good shape means you’ll ride better and save money down the road.

4. Surfboard Bags

Tossing your board in the back of the car without a surfboard bag? That’s a good way to get dings fast.

  • Day bags or non-padded bags protect surfboards on short, local journeys.

  • Travel bags or padded bags are ideal for long journeys or airline travel.

Look for lightweight bags with padded rails and corrosion-resistant zippers. They’ll keep your board safe without adding extra bulk.

Read our guide on tips for traveling with your surfboard.

5. Surfboard Racks

Surfboard racks keep your boards out of harm’s way, whether you’re storing them at home or strapping them to your car.

  • Wall-mounted racks are perfect for limited storage space or display.

  • Car racks are necessary for safe travel to the beach.

Pro tip: Always mount wall racks into studs. Trust us on that one.

6. Ding Repair Kits and Wax Combs

Even a small ding can ruin your ride. A good ding repair kit should have resin, hardener, fiberglass, and sandpaper for quick fixes. Add a wax comb to your bag to scrape old wax and keep the grip consistent.

Beyond the Board: Accessories That Make Surfing Better

Male surfer in a black Waterboyz wetsuit holding a black and blue skimboard on a sandy beach.

From wetsuits to reliable leashes and repair kits, we’re here to help you surf smarter, stay comfortable, and ride safely.

7. Wetsuits 

Your safety is the priority for that magical surfing experience. Wetsuits insulate your body and keep you warm in cold water, preventing rash, and adding buoyancy.

Try 2mm suits for Pensacola's warm months. When the water cools down, 3mm gives you the extra warmth you need.

At Waterboyz, we’ve got quality wetsuits from Xcel, built to flex, hold up, and keep you comfortable.

8. Rash Guards and UV Shirts

Sunburn's rough. So is board rash. A solid rash guard keeps both in check. At Waterboyz, we stock rash guards in long and short sleeves from WBZ and Volcom, made for active surf lifestyles and built with UPF protection and moisture-wicking fabric.

9. Leashes

Never hit the surf without a surfboard leash. They keep your board close, protect other surfers, and give you peace of mind.

  • Standard leashes for everyday surf

  • Competition leashes for performance

  • Big wave leashes for heavier surf

Top picks from Futures and FCS are lightweight and built to last.

10. Ponchos

Changing towels and ponchos make life easier after a surf session. They help you dry off, warm up, and change out of your wetsuit right there on the beach. No need to hunt down a restroom. Go for something soft, absorbent, and roomy so it’s easy to throw on and get moving.

Why Waterboyz is Your One-Stop Shop

Whether you’re catching waves or cruising the park, Waterboyz has the surfboard and skate accessories you need to perform at your best. Our shop carries top brands, including.

  • WBZ

  • Florence

  • Xcel

  • FCS

  • Dakine

We’re proud to support Pensacola’s surf culture through events, camps, contests, and a dedicated team ready to guide you through the gear you actually need.

How to Choose the Right Gear for Your Surf or Skate Lifestyle

Your gear should match your style, surf conditions, and skill level for the perfect experience. Prioritize high-quality equipment that lasts, performs well, and keeps you safe.

Gear Up With the Right Surf Accessories

Every surfer should own fins, wax, traction pads, bags, racks, wetsuits, leashes, repair kits, and wax combs for maximum safety. They aren’t just accessories; they’re essentials that help you ride better and protect your gear.

For surf accessories that blend quality, performance, and style, you can count on Waterboyz.

Ready to upgrade your surf setup? Your next session starts with the right equipment. So browse Waterboyz's top surf accessories today.

Back to Blog