Best Surf Board Leashes of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Surf board leashes are an essential accessory for any surfer. These leashes attach to the surfer's ankle and the surfboard, preventing the board from being lost or drifting away during a wipeout. They come in various lengths and thicknesses to accommodate different types of surfboards and waves. Some surf board leashes even have added features like quick-release tabs for emergencies. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, a surf board leash is a must-have for safety and convenience in the water.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Ho Stevie! Premium Surf Leash Cover #TOP 1
Ho Stevie! Premium Surf Leash
ftb score rating icon 9.8
BPS Storm 8mm Surfboard Leash Cover #TOP 2
BPS Storm 8mm Surfboard Leash
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Santa Barbara Surfing 9ft Surf Leash Cover #TOP 3
Santa Barbara Surfing 9ft Surf Leash
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Surf Board Leashes

#TOP 1

Ho Stevie! Premium Surf Leash

surfleash
Black
6 Feet
Ho Stevie! Premium Surf Leash Cover
Ho Stevie! Premium Surf Leash [1 Year Warranty] Maximum Strength, Lightweight, Kink-Free, for All Types of Surfboards. 7mm Thick (1/4") 6/7/8/9 Feet

The Ho Stevie! Surf Leash is designed for maximum strength and durability, ensuring that it won’t snap during your surfing adventures. With options for 6 to 9 feet, you can select a leash that perfectly matches your surfboard size, making it suitable for shortboards, longboards, and more. The comfortable high-density neoprene ankle cuff stays securely in place, allowing you to focus on your ride without distractions. Additionally, the stainless steel double-swivel system helps prevent tangling, ensuring a hassle-free experience in the water.

What We Like
Durable and lightweight
Great value for price
Strong holding Velcro
No tangle issues
Comfortable ankle strap
What We Don't Like
Thinner ankle strap
#TOP 2

BPS Storm 8mm Surfboard Leash

BPS
8 ft
BPS Storm 8mm Surfboard Leash Cover
BPS 'Storm' 8mm Surfboard Leash - 8 ft Premium Leg Rope with No-Rusting Stainless Steel Swivels and Triple Rail Saver Straight Leash for SUP Paddle Surf Boarding Activity (Koru Dark Blue)

The BPS Storm Leash is designed to enhance your surfing experience with its durable construction and thoughtful features. It has strong stainless steel swivels and a triple-wrap rail saver, ensuring your board stays protected during use. The comfortable embroidered collar adds extra ease, making it simple to wear while you paddle out. An old-school key pocket offers convenience, allowing you to keep your essentials secure while you enjoy the waves. With options for various lengths and cord sizes, you can find the perfect fit for your surfing needs.

What We Like
Heavy duty construction
Good quality materials
Comfortable to use
Stylish design options
Excellent customer support
What We Don't Like
Packaging coils may be tight
May take time to straighten out
#TOP 3

Santa Barbara Surfing 9ft Surf Leash

SBS-124
Black
Santa Barbara Surfing 9ft Surf Leash Cover
Santa Barbara Surfing SBS 9ft Surf Leash for Longboard & Paddleboard

The Santa Barbara Surf Leash is a versatile 9ft leash suitable for both longboarding and paddleboarding. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver while ensuring durability. The friction-free swivels help prevent tangling, allowing you to focus on your ride without distractions. Plus, the ultra-comfortable ankle cuff, padded for extra support, reduces the discomfort often associated with leash pulls. With added features like a key pocket and easy pull tab, this leash enhances your surfing experience, making it a reliable companion for any water adventure.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Comfortable to wear
Good value for price
Durable materials
Easy to spot with yellow print
What We Don't Like
Basic packaging
Color difference from photo
#TOP 4

SBS Leash String Cord for Surfboard, Longboard and SUP - 4 Pack

SBS-5103
Black
SBS Leash String Cord for Surfboard, Longboard and SUP - 4 Pack Cover
SBS - Leash String Cord for Surfboard, Longboard and SUP - 4 Pack (Black)

The SBS Leash String Cord is a pack of four strong and durable cords for surfboards, longboards, stand up paddleboards (SUP), and inflatable paddle boards (iSUP). The strings are 25% thicker, have a 550lb load rating, and are pre-cut to the right length, making them easy to tie. The leash attachment strap will allow your railsaver to rest on the rail, not your leash cord, protecting your board from dings. Made in the USA, the pack comes with a free sticker.

What We Like
Strong tubular nylon webbing
Durable and high quality
Great for various board types
Easy to use and tie
Fast shipping and delivery
What We Don't Like
May come untied with tension
#TOP 5

SBS 8ft Soft Top Leash

SBS-021
Black
SBS 8ft Soft Top Leash Cover
SBS - 8ft Soft Top Leash - 8' Replacement Leash for Wavestorm and Other SoftTop Surfboards

The SBS Soft Top Leash is the perfect replacement for your Wavestorm and other soft top surfboards. With its exact length of 8ft, it matches most softops like Wave Storm and BIC, providing you with the ideal length you need. Installing this leash is a breeze - simply loop it through the existing leash tie and you're ready to hit the waves. Designed with your budget in mind, Santa Barbara Surfing has created a leash that includes all the essential features without any unnecessary frills. And with Santa Barbara Surfing's lifetime guarantee, you can trust in the quality and durability of this leash. Experience worry-free surfing with the SBS Soft Top Leash.

What We Like
Affordable pricing
High quality material
Comfortable fit
Durable after heavy use
What We Don't Like
Short and stiff leash
Small ankle band
#TOP 6

Dakine Kainui 6Ft Surf Leash

10002903-4-5
Shadow
6' x 1/4"
Dakine Kainui 6Ft Surf Leash Cover
Dakine Kainui Team 6Ft X 1/4In - Shadow, One Size

The Dakine Kainui Surf Leash is designed for serious surfers tackling big waves. With its robust 1/4-inch urethane Dura-Cord, this leash ensures you stay securely attached to your board, even in the most challenging conditions. This reliability is crucial when riding double to triple overhead peaks, giving you the confidence to push your limits. Dakine has built its reputation on creating the strongest surf leashes, and the Kainui continues that legacy. You’ll appreciate the peace of mind it brings, allowing you to focus on your performance without worrying about losing your board.

What We Like
Superior quality
Good materials
Excellent customer service
Satisfactory product experience
What We Don't Like
Limited product photos
#TOP 7

Culture Supply Surfboard Leash

Blue
8ft (7mm Cord)
Culture Supply Surfboard Leash Cover
Culture Supply Surfboard Surf Leash (6 Sizes - 5 Colors): 6ft Comp | 6 ft Reg | 7ft | 8ft | 9ft | 10ft (Blue, 8ft (7mm Cord))

The Culture Supply Surf Leash is crafted by surfers for surfers, ensuring top-notch performance. It features a durable 2-inch neoprene cuff with a quick-release tab, allowing you to easily detach the leash when needed. The heavy-duty, anti-tangle swivels made of stainless steel help prevent twists and kinks, giving you a hassle-free experience in the water. Additionally, the triple wrap rail saver protects your surfboard from damage, ensuring it stays in great condition. With an internal key pocket, you can securely store your keys while you ride the waves.

What We Like
High-quality materials
Durable construction
Effective rail saver
Comfortable ankle cuff
Good value for the price
What We Don't Like
Thinner strap than some
Stiffer cord style
#TOP 8

Abahub Premium Surfboard Leash

MES170601BK
Black
6ft & 6mm
Abahub Premium Surfboard Leash Cover
Abahub Premium Surfboard Leash, Straight Surf Board Leg Rope, Legrope Strap for Shortboard, Skimboard Replacement Leashes 6 Foot Black 6 mm Thick

The Abahub Premium Surfboard Leash offers 5 sizes to fit various boards, with a 6mm TPU cord for durability and double anti-corrosive steel swivels to prevent tangling. The soft neoprene ankle cuff is anti-slip and adjustable, while the leash features a quick release pull tab, nylon triple-wrap rail saver, and hidden key pocket. With a 1-year manufacturer's warranty, this affordable and all-round leash is suitable for small to medium waves.

What We Like
Good value for money
Comfortable to wear
Durable and well-made
Quality bearings prevent tangling
What We Don't Like
Color mismatch from photos
A bit long for boogie boards
#TOP 9

Dakine Procomp Surf Leash

10002906
Tropic Dream
6' x 3/16"
Dakine Procomp Surf Leash Cover
Dakine Procomp Surf Leash 6Ft X 3/16In - Tropic Dream

The Dakine Procomp Leash is crafted for shoulder-high surf, ensuring you stay connected to your board with confidence. It features a resilient 3/16-inch urethane Dura-Cord that minimizes drag while maximizing strength. This means you can enjoy your surfing experience without worrying about leash performance. The neoprene cuff adds a layer of comfort, making it easier for you to wear for extended periods. Dakine's commitment to durability and performance shines through in this everyday leash, providing you with a reliable companion on the waves.

What We Like
No tangling
Strong velcro
Comfortable to use
Reliable performance
Great for casual use
What We Don't Like
Tends to tangle sometimes
May snap under stress
#TOP 10

HEYTUR Coiled SUP Leash 10' Surfboard Leash

heytur-001
5mm Black
10 feet
HEYTUR Coiled SUP Leash 10' Surfboard Leash Cover
HEYTUR Coiled SUP Leash 10' Surfboard Leash Sup Leg Rope Strap Stand Up Paddleboard Leash (5mm Black)

The HEYTUR Coiled SUP Leash 10' Surfboard Leash is an easy-to-use and comfortable leg rope strap suitable for stand up paddling, surfing, and kayaking. Its 10 ft powerful SUP leash is made of high-quality urethane cord while its elastic polyurethane coiled surfboard leg rope comes with a 1.5" quilted neoprene ankle cuff. Its classic Telephone Line design ensures more portability, lightweight, effectiveness, and flexibility, making it functional in more water environments.

What We Like
Lightweight and comfortable
Sturdy and durable
Easy to attach and use
Matches various gear colors
Good for multiple users
What We Don't Like
Not as comfortable as pricier options
Potential quality concerns for long-term use
Buying Guide Image

How to Choose the Best Surf Board Leashes

Introduction

Choosing the right surfboard leash can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. Not only do you have to consider the size and type of wave you'll be riding, but you also have to take into account factors like your skill level, the strength of the current, and the length of your board. In this article, we'll cover some key points to consider when choosing a surfboard leash, as well as some tips to help you make the right decision.

Factors to Consider

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a surfboard leash is the size and type of wave you'll be riding. In general, bigger waves require longer leashes, as they provide more slack to prevent the board from pulling you under. On the other hand, smaller waves may require shorter leashes, as they allow for more control and maneuverability.

Another important factor to consider is your skill level. If you're a beginner, it's best to choose a leash that's on the longer side, as it will provide more slack and allow you to paddle out without getting dragged under by your board. As you become more experienced, you can gradually transition to shorter leashes for greater control and maneuverability.

In addition to the size and type of wave and your skill level, you should also consider the strength of the current and the length of your board. Strong currents can put a lot of strain on a leash, so it's important to choose one that's sturdy and durable. The length of your board, on the other hand, will determine how much slack you need in your leash to prevent it from pulling you under.

Tips for Choosing a Surfboard Leash

Now that we've covered some of the key factors to consider when choosing a surfboard leash, let's take a look at some tips to help you make the right decision.

First, it's important to measure the length of your board and choose a leash that's appropriate for its size. A good rule of thumb is to choose a leash that's at least as long as your board, but not so long that it gets in your way or causes you to trip.

Next, consider the type of wave you'll be riding and choose a leash that's appropriate for its size and strength. For example, if you're planning to ride big waves, a longer leash will provide more slack and prevent your board from pulling you under. On the other hand, if you're planning to ride smaller waves, a shorter leash will allow for greater control and maneuverability.

Finally, make sure to choose a leash that's sturdy and durable. A high-quality leash will not only provide a secure connection between you and your board, but it will also withstand the forces of the current and the impact of the waves.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right surfboard leash is an important decision that can impact your safety and enjoyment in the water. By considering the size and type of wave, your skill level, the strength of the current, and the length of your board, you can choose a leash that's suitable for your needs and provide a secure connection between you and your board. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to enjoying your time on the waves.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does surf leash go in front or back?

The surfboard leash is attached to the tail of the surfboard using a leash plug. It is then worn around the ankle of the surfer's back foot or leg closest to the tail of the surfboard. This placement ensures that the leash stays out of the way while surfing.

2. Can you use a coiled leash for surfing?

Yes, coiled leashes are suitable for surfing, especially in smaller waves or flat water conditions. These leashes are made of a cord that is coiled to reduce drag in the water. They are available in different lengths and are commonly used for stand-up paddleboarding.

3. Why do surfers not wear leashes?

Some surfers choose not to wear leashes to have more freedom of movement on the board. Leashes can restrict certain types of footwork and movements, especially for longboarders who enjoy walking up and down the length of their board. However, it's important to note that wearing a leash is recommended for safety reasons.

4. Why put surf leash on calf?

Surfers who like to walk the board as they ride the wave often prefer to attach the leash to their calf. This placement keeps the leash away from their feet, avoiding tangling. It is also more accessible for some surfers compared to the ankle attachment point.

5. Can a surfboard leash be too long?

Having a surfboard leash that is too long can be problematic. During a wipeout, a long leash can cut into the rail of the surfboard, potentially damaging it. It is recommended to choose a leash length that is shorter than you initially think, considering the stretch of the leash when wet and under tension.

6. How long should surfboard straps be?

Surfboard straps should be at least 1 inch wide and 6-15 feet long. It is crucial to use sturdy straps with a metal buckle to ensure the safety and security of the surfboard. This is especially important because surfboards can generate significant forces from the wind at high speeds, requiring a strong and reliable strap and car rack.

Editor's Notes

During our surf board leash research, we found 24 surf board leash products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 24,335 customer reviews through our big data system to write the surf board leashes list. We found that most customers choose surf board leashes with an average price of $18.56.

The surf board leashes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of surf board leashes, including Ho Stevie!, BPS, Santa Barbara Surfing, Dakine, Culture Supply. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 100 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.