As a longtime surfer, I鈥檝e learned that having the appropriate gear can make all the difference out on聽the water. Whether it鈥檚 a too thin or too thick wetsuit, a bikini top that needs constant readjusting, or a hat that won鈥檛 stay put, finicky equipment can impact your performance. And in a male-dominant sport, it can be difficult to find gear designed specifically for women. But after years of researching and testing the best products in the business, I keep coming back to these women-designed pieces.聽Because when you鈥檙e in the lineup,聽all you should have to focus on is catching waves, and this gear helps me do that.
Kassia+Surf Psychedelic Full Suit ($400)
In a sea of black neoprene, it鈥檚聽refreshing to wear a wetsuit that stands out. Designed by professional surfer Kassia Meador, the three-millimeter聽Psychedelic has everything you鈥檇 expect in a solid wetsuit (comfort, warmth, and flexibility), with聽funky, fun flair. It features infrared lining on the torso, taped and glued seams, two neck-flap enclosures, and smooth聽neoprene over the chest and back鈥攁 combination that, the brand claims,聽makes it ideal for water temperatures from 48 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. While other suits take a while to break in, the Psychedelic was comfortable from the get-go and has proven to be a fun conversation starter in the lineup. In an effort to keep the business as sustainable as possible, Kassia+Surf offers a that converts old suits into yoga mats.
Seea聽Lido One-Piece聽($125)
On days when the surf is firing鈥攐r when I鈥檓 feeling more modest鈥攊t鈥檚 nice to have a reliable one-piece that I know will stay in place no matter how big the wave or wipeout. Reminiscent of beachwear聽from a different decade, the Lido features a high neckline, full-coverage bottom,聽and deep V-back, and it offers UPF 30+ protection. Made from Seea鈥檚 heavyweight C-Skin fabric, the suit is constructed from a聽blend of polyester and spandex聽yet feels like聽lightweight neoprene. The extra coverage and secure fit of this retro suit have made it my go-to option for long summer sessions聽on the water.聽
Carve Designs Saluda Tight ($62)
I聽normally prefer wearing either wetsuits or bikinis, but sometimes I want something in between. Cue Carve Designs鈥櫬燬aluda tight. Made from a soft, lightweight combination of nylon and spandex, it offers UPF 50 protection for sunny days when I want a little extra shielding from the sun between sets. Also perfect for beach workouts or quick coverage after聽a chilly session, the Saluda has聽become a staple in my surf wardrobe.
Sensi Graves聽Claire Bikini Top ($58)
Professional kiteboarder and surfer is in the business of making bikinis for women who rip, and the Claire top is a prime example of her work. Made from recycled ocean plastics and spandex, this fully lined top features a scoop neck, thick straps, a double cross聽back, and cut-out holes in the front that allow water to pass through. Whether I鈥檓 wearing it on its own or under a wetsuit, the snug fit and crisscross straps聽ensure it stays put without sacrificing style.
Atmosea Stardust Spring Suit ($240)
Based in Byron Bay, Australia, Atmosea is all about making unique, functional wetsuits for women surfers. While a full suit is ideal during the colder months, it鈥檚 nice to have an in-between option for the shoulder seasons. Atmosea hit the nail on the head with its one-millimeter spring suit. Standout features include a high neckline for added protection and warmth, an adjustable arm length (you can cut off the sleeves at your desired length at three different stitch points), back-zip entry, and a waist panel for a flattering silhouette. Since it鈥檚 thinner than traditional spring suits, it easily conformed to my body shape, allowing a snug fit while still offering plenty of flexibility. Designed聽by a company that鈥檚 centered around female聽empowerment, and with style points to boot, the Stardust is a winner.聽
Kaiola Surf Hat ($60)
When I鈥檓 not in the water, I鈥檓 big on hats. But when it comes to surfing, riding waves while trying to keep my hat in place always seemed like an excessive challenge鈥攗ntil I discovered Kaiola鈥檚 surf hat. Available in two sizes, it offers UPF 80 protection and has聽an adjustable chin strap. The body is made from 100 percent recycled nylon, and the front panel is 100 percent polyester. The fit is secure yet comfortable, and I appreciate the fact that the visor flips up, giving me better visibility when paddling.聽You can also tuck away the chin strap聽inside the hat, allowing for an easy transition from the lineup to land.聽
Sagebrush Board Bag ($130 and Up)
Aside from my car, my surfboards聽are聽my most prized possessions, so I do my best to keep them聽protected from the elements. Sagebrush鈥檚 bags聽have kept my boards (and me)聽happy. Designed in Southern California by freesurfer Anna Ehrgott,聽these bags are built to withstand dings and scratches聽and are eco-friendly: the body is made from vintage fabric, and the tip is made with used coffee-bean sacks from organic, fair-trade coffee roasters around the world. They come in a variety of styles and colors and are suitable for boards ranging from five feet聽six inches to ten feet. I get compliments on my bag on a regular basis, and unlike a board sock, these bags are sturdier and easier to slip on.