Fun in the Sun: A Guide To Sun Protection While Surfing
“You can’t have been in Bali for 6 weeks. You’re too pale.” My scooter driver looked me up and down incredulously. Not only had I been in Bali for 6 weeks, but I had spent most of that time surfing for hours each day.
I don’t necessarily look cool when I surf, but as someone who sunburns easily and rarely keeps a tan for longer than a few days, I’ve become an expert at sun protection while surfing. Here are my top three tips for keeping your skin in protected while you’re catching waves:
Tip #1: Cover up!
When I’m surfing in warmer water, I wear a rashguard (a spandex, long sleeved swimming shirt also affectionately known as a “rashie”), surf leggings, and reef booties. This ensemble not only keeps me from getting sunburnt, but I also don’t get painful rashes from surf boards or scratches and cuts from reefs or rocks.
In cold water, I get many of the same benefits (albeit with less mobility) with a wetsuit.
Tip #2: Buy zinc sunscreen
Hands down, heavy duty zinc sunscreen is the best sunscreen for surfers. Do I look like a smurf when I cover my face in bright blue zinc sunscreen? Maybe a little bit. But it always stays on and leaves me sunburn free after a surf session.
If a brighter color sunscreen isn’t for you, they also sell zinc sunscreen for surfing in more neutral tones as well. I love Suntribe’s zinc sunscreen – it stays on in the water, is relatively inexpensive, and is made with natural, high-quality ingredients. You can use zinc sunscreen paste for your hands, feet, and any other place that isn’t covered as well.
Tip #3: Wear a surf hat
I absolutely love my surf hat from Dakine. It clips under my chin, covers my face and neck, and keeps me both sun protected and cool. It even has a little storage pocket on the top, although I’ve never used it. I’ve seen multiple people lose their hats in the waves, but this one is always a keeper.
Feeling inspired to plan your next (or first) surf adventure? Read my packing tips for surf beginners here.
