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  1. 1
    Examine what a bodyboarder separated from his board faces:
    • shallow reefs on the inside with or without sea urchins
    • long swims to retrieve the board on the inside
    • the board might get stolen or lost.
  2. 2
    Choose a leash. This article covers wrist leashes, bodyboarders who stand on their boards may not want a leash and those who have one-knee on the boards may have a wrist or ankle leash. A thicker tubing does not tangle compared to a thin tubing. A curled leash (pigtail) breaks very easily, but does not tangle like the cord type. A name brand leash is the best because of the quality controls.
  3. 3
    Adjust the length of the leash. A short leash is cumbersome when getting off and on the board. A long leash can tangle more and adds a second or two in retrieving the board. When off the board and retrieving it, and the next wave has riders coming in - a too long leash wastes time. Retrieving a board when a big wave is coming with a long leash wastes time, over and over again. A short leash makes getting on and off the board from the back impossible (sliding off the back is a very quick to stop).
  4. 4
    Attach the leash. Top center is best for riders that go right and left. Bodyboarders who only go right might attach the leash to the side instead of the center. Attaching the leash away from the tip of the board creates lift and resistance. When bodyboarding in shallow water with reefs underneath, a bodyboard with the leash attached further away from the tip, keeps one off and away from the reef. Leashes can break more easily at the wrist strap and cord when the leash is attached far from the tip. When the leash is attached closer to the tip: board retrieval is much quicker which is crucial when wanting to get back on the board and paddle away from the zone pronto. Attaching the leash at the tip of board is also strong because the board is thinner there. The plastic screw attachment to the board holds stays together only moderately well if it is attached further back. Using some glue on this attachment strengthens it only a little. Where to attach the leash is a matter of individual preference based on many factors.
  5. 5
    Consider getting a handle. The leash can be attached to the board via the plug and the handle. If a bodyboard was used for just paddling a short leash would be perfect, so to deal with a longer leash the extra loop of the leash can be tucked under the handle. Hanging on to a board with the handle and pinch gripping the board with the other hand is best when getting pounded by a broken wave.


  • With a leash attached closer to the tip, expect board to head collisions when surfacing. No problem, the board is soft and with no fins.
  • Strengthen the shoulder muscles. When fatigued or in a strong wave a runaway buoyant board can put on lot of stress on the shoulder.
  • Generally, bodyboard as if you had no leash - do not depend on it. Always control the board till you no longer are able to. A loose board can get stolen.

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Categories: Stub | Surfing


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