Go Surf tips: Your guide to legropes, wax and tailpads

When you first start surfing, everything feels a bit overwhelming.

The ocean looks massive, your board feels unruly to say the least and somehow everyone else in the lineup seems to know exactly what they’re doing.

Truth is, every surfer starts here. Even our surf instructors were once beginners!

But as you progress and up-skilling, you'll quickly realise that the right equipment can make all the difference.

It’s not just about balance or bravery, after all. Although they're both handy to have.

Owning the right surf gear makes the whole thing way less frustrating. And today we're going to focus on three unsung heroes (the legrope, surf wax and tailpad) and how they can quietly turn your surf session from chaos into something fun and rewarding!

Let's get cracking.

Legropes, wax and tailpads 101

Legropes: Because leashes aren't just for dogs

A legrope is that cord tying your ankle to your board.

Forget it and you’ll watch your board take its own surf trip to the beach. Minus you.

Why it matters:

  • Saves you the humiliation of swimming into shore to retrieve your board

  • Keeps other surfers safe... a flying or surfer-less board is no joke

  • Gives you confidence to go for bigger waves knowing your ride won’t bail on you

Pro tip: Rinse your legrope and your board after each surf session. Keep both out of the sun. Salt water makes the cord stiff and brittle over time. Trust us... nothing kills the vibe like snapping a leash mid–surf trip.

Wax: Not just for candles

Surf wax is the reason you see surfers rubbing bars on their boards before paddling out. Without it, your board’s about as grippy as a freshly polished dance floor.

Wax comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. It's also made to suit specific water temperatures. For example, harder wax for warmer climates and softer wax for cooler water.

Why it matters:

  • Keeps your feet glued to the deck so you can actually stand up

  • Makes the board user-friendly for beginner surfers learning to catch waves

  • Saves you from doing the surfboard deck boogie and slipping off on the wave of the day

  • Learn how to wax your surfboard like a pro!

Pro tip: Choose the right wax for the water temp. Perth’s best surf beaches switch between warm and cold depending on the season, so you'll need two types of surf wax if you plan on surfing here year-round.

Tailpads: Your back foot’s happy place

A tailpad (or tail grip) is the foam patch glued to the back end of your board. Doesn’t look like much, but it’s a game changer for control.

Like wax it helps keep your foot on the board. It's also a handy indicator that ensures you know exactly where your back foot is going when you pop up.

Why it matters:

  • Stops your back foot sliding off when you’re riding breaking waves

  • Helps you manoeuvre the board (learn more about surfboard tricks and manoeuvres)

  • Gives you a “landmark” so you know where to stand on your beginner surfboard

Pro tip: Just purchased a new board and tailpad? Stick it on and leave it overnight. If you rush it, the grip can peel up during your first surf session. They're not exactly cheap and it sucks seeing your tailpad float past you while you're sitting in the lineup.

Putting it together

Add these three bits of surf gear and suddenly things click!

You’re catching a few waves instead of wiping out on all the waves. You’re paddling into a surf spot feeling semi-confident. You’re not a beginner who spends the whole surf session chasing their board while the same wave rolls on without them.

At Go Surf Perth, we make sure you’ve got the essentials sorted.

From beginner surfboards with fresh wax and grippy tailpads to solid legropes that keep your board close, we’ll set you up right from the start.

Our surf instructors run private surf lessons for personalised coaching, as well as group surf lessons if you want the fun of learning with mates.

We keep classes small and user-friendly, so beginner surfers get plenty of attention and time in the water.

Whether it’s your very first surf session or you’re gearing up for a surf trip, we’ll guide you through every step of your surfing journey!

FAQs: Surf gear and starting out in Perth

Do I need to bring my own board to lessons?

Nope. At Go Surf Perth, we’ve got you covered with beginner-friendly foam boards and longer boards to match your skill level.

A big board gives you more stability, helps you pop up smoothly and lets you catch a wave without too much drama.

What kind of waves are best for beginners?

Waves break in all shapes and sizes.

Soft waves and unbroken waves are your best mates when you’re just starting out. Beginner spots like Scarborough and Leighton often serve up forgiving conditions where most people can take baby steps without being absolutely rissoled by oncoming waves.

Will I learn how to duck dive?

Eventually, yes. But that comes later. For now you can go slow. Besides, duck diving isn’t really possible because a beginner board is too buoyant. To start, the most important thing is learning how to handle your board in the line up and how to get past small sets safely.

How do I improve my wave count?

Wave count comes down to practice and patience. Learning to read the line up, paddling in the right spot, and timing the next wave are skills that build with time. Our surf instructors will give you pointers so you’re not just drifting past the best waves but actually catching them.

What should I know about surfing in Perth?

Perth is blessed with plenty of beginner spots and soft, rolling waves that make learning to surf much more fun.

The sun’s rays can be harsh though, so slap on sunscreen. Always check the local weather forecast before heading to the shore, and remember that even on small days you may need to paddle long distances, so fitness helps.

The good news? With so many waves and friendly beaches, Perth is one of the easiest places in WA to start surfing. Learn more about what to know before you go!

Ready to start surfing?

Surf trips and local surf sessions are way more fun when you’re set up properly.

At Go Surf Perth, we’ve got the boards, the gear, and the surf instructors to make sure you’re catching waves instead of catching wipeouts.

Whether you’re keen on private surf lessons or want the laughs of group surf lessons, we’ll help you kick off your surfing journey at Perth’s best surf spots: Scarborough, Trigg or Leighton!

So strap on your legrope, wax up and plant that back foot on the tailpad.

Book your surf lesson today with Go Surf Perth!