Bodyboard Leashes: Bicep or Wrist – Which is Best for You?

Have you ever been caught in a gnarly wave without your board? That is where a bodyboard leash steps in, an essential component for any bodyboarder having your board within arm's length after each wipe out.

But the debate continues: should you opt for a bicep or a wrist leash? Each has its merits. Therefore, deciding comes down to personal riding style performance.

In this post, we will break down the pros and cons of each bodyboard leash by helping you make the best choice for your next surf session. Stay tuned to find out which leash suits your ride the best.

What is a Bodyboard Leash?

A bodyboard leash is a crucial piece of equipment for any bodyboarder hitting the waves, the leash connects you to your board, ensuring you don't lose it in the surf. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, either leash can make your time in the water safer and more enjoyable.

Purpose and Benefits

Why is a bodyboard leash important? Let's break it down.

1. Safety: Consider if you are riding a wave you wipe out, so without a leash attached to your board, it could be swept away by the current, leaving you stranded with no choice other than to swim after your board. A board leash ensures that your bodyboard stays close to you, reducing the risk of being caught in dangerous situations.
2. Convenience: With a leash, you will not have to swim after your board every time you fall off. It keeps the board tethered to you so you can get back on quickly, which means more time riding waves and less time retrieving your board.
3. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your board will not drift away gives you the confidence to try new tricks and tackle any size wave. It’s like having a safety net, allowing you to push your limits without fear.

Types of Leashes

There are various types of bodyboard leashes available, each with its unique features. Here’s a quick look at the most common leashes:

1. Bicep Leash:
   • Fits around your upper arm.
   • Offers more freedom of movement.
   • Preferred by many experienced riders.
2. Wrist Leash:
   • Attached to your wrist.
   • Easier to put on and take off.
   • Often chosen by beginners or those who prefer simplicity.
3. Coiled Leash:
   • The cord is coiled like a telephone wire.
   • The leash coils remain short until they need to stretch.
   • Reduces drag in the water.
4. Straight Leash:
   • The cord is straight and does not coil.
   • Provides more predictable movement.
   • May cause more drag but is less likely to tangle.

Choosing the right type of leash depends on your personal preference and riding style. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, so consider what suits you best.

Bicep Leashes

Bicep leashes are a popular choice among bodyboarders who seek comfort and reduced drag. Let's break down their design, benefits, and potential drawbacks.

Design and Features

A bicep leash is worn around the upper arm just above the elbow. It usually consists of a padded neoprene non-slip cuff, which provides a snug and comfortable fit. The cuff is attached to connectors onto a coiled or straight urethane leash, which tethers to your board.

Key Features:

• Padded Cuff: The non-slip neoprene padding ensures comfort, even during extended sessions in the surf.
• Adjustable Strap: Velcro and webbing straps allow you to adjust the fit to suit your arm size.
• Durable Materials: High-quality materials ensure longevity, even in harsh salt water conditions..
• Swivels: Some bicep leashes come with swivels to prevent tangling, adding to the ease of use.
• Leash Connectors: Leash connectors are crucial in preventing cord stretch and reducing the risk of urethane cord snapping at the end of the connectors.

Advantages of Bicep Leashes

There are several benefits to using a bicep leash. For many bodyboarders, these advantages make it the preferred choice.

1. Increased Mobility: Because the leash is attached to your upper arm, it stays out of the way when paddling and riding waves, plus more freedom of movement paddling compared to wrist leashes.
2. Reduced Drag: Bicep leashes tend to create less drag in the water. With the leash positioned higher on your body, you can glide through the water more smoothly.
3. Enhanced Comfort: Many riders find bicep leashes more comfortable than wrist leashes. The padded cuff distributes pressure evenly around the arm, avoiding the tightness that can occur on the wrist.
4. Better for Performance: For bodyboarders performing tricks and advanced manoeuvres, a bicep leash can offer more controlled and unhindered movements.

Disadvantages of Bicep Leashes

While bicep leashes have many advantages, they can also have a few potential downsides. Knowing these can help you make a more informed choice.

1. Too Tight: Some riders can experience restricted blood flow in their upper arm, especially if the cuff is too tight, as a result, can lead to feelings of numbness or discomfort during longer bodyboarding sessions.
2. Discomfort for Some Riders: Not everyone finds the bicep leash comfortable. The positioning and tightness may cause discomfort, particularly for those with larger or muscular arms.
3. Less Common for Beginners: Beginners might find bicep leashes a bit awkward at first. It can take some time to get used to the positioning and feel compared to wrist leashes.

Choosing the right leash depends on your personal preferences and style. Bicep leashes offer unique benefits, but they might not be the best choice for everyone.

Wrist Leashes

Wrist leashes are a principal in the bodyboarding community, especially those who prefer simplicity and ease of use. But first, we need to look into the design features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of wrist leashes.

Design and Features

Wrist leashes are designed to be worn around your wrist, securing the board to your arm.

Key Features:

• Padded Neoprene Cuff: The cuff is typically padded for comfort, reducing the risk of chafing.
• Adjustable Strap: Velcro straps allow for quick adjustments, fitting snugly to various wrist sizes.
• Coiled or Straight Leash: Comes in both coiled and straight varieties, each designed to keep the leash out of the way.
• Mould Connectors: Many wrist leashes include moulded ends, while cheaper versions often have tied ends, which are more likely to become loose.
• Swivel Mechanism: Top-of-the-range wrist leashes include a swivel to prevent the leash from tangling during use.

Advantages of Wrist Leashes

Wrist leashes offer benefits that make them a popular choice among bodyboarders.

1. Ease of Use: They are easy to put on, even for beginners and the simplicity of wrapping the leash around your wrist and securing it with Velcro is a big plus.
2. Quick Release: The strap design often features a quick-release loop, making it easy to detach the leash if needed.
3. Comfort: The wrist is a less sensitive area compared to the bicep. The padded neoprene wrist cuff provides a comfortable fit without cutting off circulation.
4. Versatility: Wrist leashes are versatile and suitable for bodyboarding conditions and skill levels. They offer a balanced experience, whether you're cruising small waves or tackling bigger ones.

Disadvantages of Wrist Leashes

While wrist leashes have many strengths, they also have some potential downsides.

1. Increased Drag: A board leash attached to your wrist can create more drag in the water.
2. Interference with Paddling: The leash can get in the way of your paddling stroke. This might slow you down or make it harder to get into the right position.
3. Potential for Tangles: Despite the swivel mechanism, wrist leashes can still tangle, especially in more turbulent waters. This can be annoying and sometimes dangerous.

Wrist leashes offer a great balance of ease, comfort, and functionality. They might be a more suitable option for beginners and those who prefer a straightforward setup. However, consider the potential downsides before making your choice.

Choosing Between a Bicep and Wrist Leash

When deciding between a bicep and wrist leash for bodyboarding, the below factors come into play.

Your preference for the waves you ride and the ocean environments you frequent all influence your choice. It’s worth trying both leashes to see which best suits your needs.

Personal Preferences and Riding Style

Your individual preferences and riding style are critical in choosing the right bodyboard leash. Here’s why:

• Comfort and Fit: Some riders find bicep leashes more comfortable since they wrap around the upper arm. This can offer more freedom of movement. Others prefer wrist leashes for their simplicity and ease of use.
• Riding Style: If you’re into performing tricks, a bicep leash can provide greater mobility. IIt keeps the leash out of the way and allows for smoother manoeuvres. For those who prefer a relaxed ride, wrist leashes can be more than sufficient.
• Beginners Level: Might favour wrist leashes due to their user-friendly nature. They are easier to manage and adjust, making them less fussy for new riders.

Wave Conditions and Environments

The waves you ride and the conditions you face also play a role in your leash choice.

• Small to Medium Waves: In these conditions, wrist leashes often work well. They provide a secure connection without much drag, making for an enjoyable ride.
• Large or Rough Waves: For bigger or more turbulent waves, a bicep leash can be advantageous. It’s less likely to tangle and offers better mobility, which is crucial in challenging conditions.
• Crowded Beaches: In busy surfing spots, a bicep leash can help you navigate through crowds more easily. It reduces the risk of your leash getting caught by other surfers or obstacles.

Practical Tips for Making the Right Choice

Before settling on a bicep or wrist leash, consider these practical tips:

• Try Both: If possible, test both types of leashes. This hands-on experience will give you a better feel for what works best.
• Seek Recommendations: Speak to other bodyboarders or surf shop or better still a bodyboard specialist. They can offer insights based on their experiences.
• Assess Your Needs: Think about your typical surf conditions and what you prioritise in a leash—comfort, mobility, or ease of use.
• Consider Adjustments: Look for leashes with adjustable straps and padding. Ensures you get a snug and comfortable fit no matter what type you choose.

By understanding your preferences, riding style, and the wave conditions you frequently surf, you can confidently choose between a bicep and wrist leash. Remember, the best leash is the one that suits your unique needs and helps you enjoy your time in the surf.

How to Fit a Bodyboard Leash Plug

Attaching a leash to your bodyboard is a straightforward process, but doing it correctly ensures that your leash stays secure and doesn't damage your board.

Fitting a bodyboard leash plug is crucial for keeping your board secure while you ride the waves. A well-placed plug ensures your leash stays attached, giving you peace of mind and safety out in the surf. Follow these steps to fit your bodyboard leash plug correctly.

Find the Right Spot for the Plug

First, you must decide where to place the leash plug on your bodyboard. Most standard boards come with a pre-installed plug, usually located about 15 to 20 cm down from the nose.

If your board does not have one, you will install it yourself. Best check with the board brand or information about the board features on the packaging. Best of all, consult your bodyboard specialist to pre-drill and install the board plug.

If you're installing the plug yourself? Best you know about your stringer position because bodyboards can have single, double and even triple stinger locations. We have illustrated the basic positions of these three stringer system types and provided the best position for the plug installation highlighted in green.

Please remember that the position of the board plug, whether on the left or right side, should be based on your preferred leash placement when strapped to your arm.

Steps to Position the Plug:

1. Measure and Mark: From the nose of the board, measure about 15 to 20 cm down and mark the spot in the centre. This is where you’ll install the plug.
2. Avoid the Stringer: Your board has a stringer, make sure to install the plug away from it by 10 to 15 cm. The stringer is a rod inside the board that adds strength and can be damaged by drilling.

Install the Leash Plug

If your board already has a plug, skip this step. If not, follow these instructions to install one.

Steps to Install the Plug:

1. Drill the Hole: Using a drill with a small bit, carefully drill through the marked spot. Go slow to avoid cracking the board.
2. Insert the Plug: Push the two halves of the plug into the hole from each side of the board. Make sure they're aligned and press them firmly together.
3. Secure the Plug: Tighten the screw on the plug to secure it in place. Be careful not to over tighten, as this can damage the board.

Attach the Leash Cord to the Plug

Once the plug is secure, you can attach your leash. This process is the same for both bicep and wrist leashes.

Attachment Steps:

1. Thread the Cord: Take the leash cord and thread it through the plug. Pull it until the cord loop is tight against the plug.
2. Secure the Loop: Pass the leash cuff through the loop at the end of the cord and pull it tight to ensure a secure fit. If the leash cord is too short, untie the knot, follow step 1, and then retie the knot.
3. Check Tightness: Give the leash cord a few firm tugs to make sure it’s securely attached to the plug.

Test Your Setup

Before hitting the waves, it's essential to test your set-up to ensure everything is secure.

Testing Tips:

• Inspect the Plug: Make sure the plug is tightly secured with no visible damage.
• Tug the Leash: Apply some force to the leash cord to confirm it's firmly attached.
• Check the Cuff: Ensure the cuff is comfortable and secure around your wrist or bicep.

By following these steps, you'll ensure that your bodyboard leash plug is fitted correctly and will help make sure your leash is correctly attached to your bodyboard, keeping you and your board connected while you enjoy the surf. Proper setup extends the life of your board and enhances your overall bodyboarding experience.

What Are Bodyboard Leashes Made Of

Ensuring you do not lose your bodyboard in the surf. Understanding the bodyboard leash materials used in these essential pieces of gear can help you select the best bodyboard leash for your needs. Let’s break down the key components that make up a bodyboard leash.

Cord Material

The cord is the main part of the leash, and it's crucial for its strength and durability.

Common Leash Cord Materials:

• Urethane: Most bodyboard leashes are made from Polyurethane PU. It's tough, flexible, and resistant to breaking, even under significant stress. Urethane cords can withstand the harsh conditions of salt-water and sun exposure, making them a reliable choice for bodyboarders.
• Coils: Better quality leashes use coiled urethane cords. These are more compact, reducing drag and tangling. They stretch when pulled, providing some give while keeping the board close.

Cuff and Padding

The cuff is the part of the leash that wraps around your wrist or bicep. Comfort and security are key here, so high-quality materials are essential.

Cuff Materials:

• Neoprene: Non-slip neoprene cuff is synthetic soft rubber that is flexible and comfortable against the skin and provides cushioning to prevent chafing and distribute pressure evenly, ensuring a snug fit.
• Velcro Webbing Straps: Velcro adjustable straps on the cuff. It allows quick and secure fastening, making the leash easy to put on and take off.

Swivels and Connectors

Swivels and connectors are small but vital parts of a leash. They prevent the cord from tangling and twisting, ensuring smooth use.

Leash connectors are essential for minimising cord stretch and reducing the risk of the urethane cord snapping at the connection points.

Swivels:There are two types of over-moulded swivels - single or two-piece designs. Two-piece swivels can experience reduced rotation due to salt-water exposure and corrosion, causing the swivel to seize and tangling urethane cord. In contrast, single-piece swivel shafts rotate smoothly within a plastic housing, offering the optimal balance of durability and performance.

Single Swivel Shaft and Plastic Barrel Housing

Two Piece Swivel

Connectors: Our unique POD Connectors over-moulded stainless steel single-piece swivel maximise flexibility and durability, allowing the cord to stretch to its full potential without compromising strength. With these advanced connectors, you can trust that your leash will perform reliably and last longer.

Swivel Materials:

• Marine Stainless: An essential feature for any gear used in salt-water. Swivels made from 316 marine grade are resistant to rust or corrosion and provide smooth rotation.
• Plastic Components: The connection moulded over the swivel are made from high-strength injection moulded PU plastics. These are used to reduce weight while maintaining durability and function.

Plugs and Attachments

The plug is where the leash connects to the bodyboard, usually through a small hole or plug system on the board.

Plug Materials:

• Plastic: Bodyboard leash plugs are durable hard resin plastic, that withstand the pressure and stresses of surfing without cracking or breaking.
• Nylon Cord:The attachment points might use nylon cords for added flexibility and strength. They are wear and tear resistant, ensuring the leash stays securely fastened to the board.

Overall Construction

Manufacturers choose materials that have the correct balance of flexibility, strength, and comfort to provide the best experience for riders. These materials result in a durable, reliable leash that can handle the rigours of bodyboarding.

By understanding what bodyboard leashes comprise, you can make a more informed choice and ensure you have the right gear to enhance your performance and safety in the surf.

That's a Wrap

Choosing between a bicep or wrist bodyboard leash is all about what works best for you. Bicep leashes give more mobility and less drag, great for advanced manoeuvres. Wrist leashes are easy to use and comfortable, making them a solid choice at an affordable price for beginners.

Think about where you usually surf and how you ride. If you bodyboard big waves, a bicep leash is a better option. For smaller waves or crowded spots or between the flags, a wrist leash is far more practical.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your personal preferences and specific needs. Try both types if you can and see which enhances your bodyboarding experience.