7 Holiday Gift Ideas Every Surfer Actually Wants
Holiday Gift Guide for the Surfer in Your Life: 7 Picks That Actually Improve Their Surfing
Buying gifts for surfers can be tricky. Most are pretty picky, especially when it comes to boards and gear. So if you're stuck, here’s a list of gift ideas that are useful, thoughtful, and actually help them surf better.

These aren’t ranked in any particular order, but each one has a real benefit—whether it’s better performance, better footage, or just more time in the water.
A New Set of Fins
Fins are one of the easiest ways to change how a surfboard feels. A sticky or slow board can feel fast and loose with the right fin setup.
Things to keep in mind:
-
Make sure you get the right fin system that they use (Futures or FCS)
-
If you’re not sure what to buy, check what fins they’re currently using and ask at a surf shop what you should try
-
Good upgrade for any surfer who already has a few boards
SoloShot (or Surfline via Apple Watch)
The best way to get better at surfing is to watch yourself surf. Footage shows you what’s actually happening—versus what you think you’re doing.
Two ways to make this happen:
-
SoloShot: A robotic camera that tracks and films you in the water. High-quality footage without needing a filmer.
-
Apple Watch with Surfline Sessions: If they surf at a spot with a Surfline cam, this is a cheaper way to get clips. Not as good as SoloShot, but it works.
The Basis Paddle Trainer
Paddling is 90% of surfing. If someone can’t paddle well, they won’t catch waves—simple as that.
The Basis Paddle Trainer is the only tool that trains real paddle mechanics on land. A few short sessions each week can improve shoulder strength, endurance, and paddling posture. It’s already helped tons of surfers catch more waves.
Good option for surfers who:
-
Don’t surf every day
-
Want to stay surf-fit during flat spells
-
Struggle with endurance and catching waves
A Used Surfboard (If You Know What They Want)
This one can be a home run—or a total miss.
Used boards make great gifts because most surfers would love to have another board. But unless you know exactly what they want—size, shape, volume, and style—don’t guess.
Tips:
-
Ask them what they’re looking for
-
Check local surf shops with used board racks
-
Bring a photo of their current boards for reference
Surf Coaching
Great surfers all have coaches. Most average surfers don’t.
Getting a coach is one of the fastest ways to improve. Whether it’s in-person coaching or remote video review, feedback from an experienced eye can help fix hidden issues and speed up progress.
You can find great coaches on our podcast—just pick one that matches their vibe and goals.
Burnd Sunscreen
Surfers always need sunscreen. But most of them either forget or use something that doesn’t stay on.
Burnd Sunscreen is a newer option developed with long surf sessions in mind. It uses a reverse emulsion formula that goes on light but doesn’t wash off in the water.
-
Tested in tropical surf conditions
-
Doesn’t sting the eyes
-
Doesn’t leave your hands greasy
I’m still doing long-term testing, but early signs look solid. Check it out here.
Carver Skateboard (If They’re Into It)
Surfskates like Carvers can help with style, flow, and turns—if they’re used properly. The risk is building bad habits and getting injured, so only recommend this to someone who either already knows how to use one or is learning from a good source.
Pros:
-
Great for practicing maneuvers on land
-
Builds leg strength and balance
-
Fun cross-training for flat days
Cons:
-
Easy to ingrain bad movement patterns without coaching
-
Can be hard on knees and ankles. Not ideal for surfers already dealing with lower body injuries.
Wrap-Up
If you’re looking for gifts that go beyond gimmicks and actually help the surfer in your life get better, these are solid options. Whether it’s performance gear, coaching, or footage, all of these ideas add real value.
Enter the Basis Paddle Trainer
Start building paddle fitness before the swell hits. Match your training to the type of break. It’s the easiest way to boost your wave count—and your progression.
Use the Basis Paddle Trainer to train your paddling anytime, anywhere, so you can catch more waves and have more fun.
Shipping globally now! www.surfbasis.com
For a deep dive customer testimonial from one of our early beta testers check out
Deixe um comentário