The surf leash is at it again. This piece of plastic kicks up more dust in the surf world than anything else. Surf Helmets, the pop vest, and the quest for the 100-foot wave; are all topics of debate, but the leash, that crazy little piece of rope hanging off your ankle saving you from swimming, surfboard loss, and unforeseeable accidents with human beings, is rapidly becoming a point of contention again. This piece of urethane is at the forefront of conversation again with the recent injury of former pro Matt Cassidy and the new mandatory leash laws that were passed last month in Byron Bay.
In February of 2023, Cassidy almost bled out and lost a limb after getting a deep wound in his arm from a stray board at Wategos Beach. After surviving a life-threatening ordeal, Cassidy graciously forgave the person who caused the accident but then made a shout-out on social, condoning egotistical surfers who choose not to wear a leash in crowded situations. Three months later, we see an official change with the first-ever leash law put into effect.
I once posted in a blog to please surf like you have no leash. Learn the art of the kick-out with self-dignity. Show control and style by being able to maintain control of your board. I failed to emphasize the most compelling component of wearing a leash; it can save a life. The leash is, as it states, a leash, something to be tied to. As in real life, a leash can be a crutch, or it can be a life jacket. In both comparisons, it is an entirely vital and essential part of our everyday surf gear, like it or not. After almost getting clocked in the head by a phantom 25-pound log on solid 6-foot day at Rincon two months ago, I’m now a firm believer. Wear a fricken’ leash. I did have my surf helmet on but was flushed through onto the rocks. I dinged my board and gashed my hand. I was much luckier that Matthew Cassidy who has suffered a life-altering injury.
Some exceptions: if you are genuinely surfing alone or in a place where a lost board will not impede or impale another surfer. Supreme judgment is key. A controlled contest situation is OK too.
As for mandatory safety laws in the line-up, the writing is on the wall. Australia has a deep history of life-saving culture and will probably continue to lead the charge on this. It’s hard not to foresee other cities adopting similar measures. Having a young daughter who likes to surf Rincon, I will not argue.
Matt Cassidy says it best “Let’s all enter and exit the surf safely; we all love the same sport; let’s act like a community, not individuals.”
My advice: Put on a leash and let your surfing do your talking. Don’t worry what the other surfer thinks. Surf in control and pretend you don’t have a leash on. Always attempt to hold on to your board no matter what. Lastly, practice the art of the kick-out.
For more details, check out David Kelly’s The History of the Surf Leash.
Photo: AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL SURFING MUSEUM