What’s The Difference Between a Knee Leash and an Ankle Leash?

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just catching your first wave, having the right equipment is essential for an enjoyable and safe experience. One crucial piece of surf equipment that often goes overlooked is the surfboard leash. 

At 10 Over Surf Shop, we understand the importance of finding the perfect leash to suit your surfing style. We proudly stock a diverse range of leashes from top brands like Captain Fin Company, Koalition, and Creatures Of Leisure. In this blog, we'll explore the key differences between ankle and knee leashes to help you make an informed decision.

The History of Surfing Leashes

Surfing leashes were invented in the early 1970s. The concept of a surfboard leash was introduced to address the issue of boards drifting away from surfers after wipeouts. The invention of the surf leash significantly improved safety in the water and allowed surfers to stay connected to their boards.

In 1971, a California surfer named Pat O'Neill, the son of wetsuit pioneer Jack O'Neill, is often credited with developing the first commercially available surf leash. The original design featured a rubber tube covered in nylon fabric and attached to the surfer's ankle with a Velcro strap. The invention revolutionized the sport by preventing surfers from being separated from their boards, especially in challenging conditions.

Since then, surfing leashes have undergone various improvements and design changes, becoming an essential piece of equipment for surfers of all levels. They have played a crucial role in enhancing safety and allowing surfers to focus more on riding waves and less on retrieving their boards.

Ankle Leashes

Ankle leashes are the tried-and-true choice for the majority of surfers. The leash is attached to the back ankle, providing a secure connection to your board. The Velcro strap ensures a snug fit, preventing the board from drifting away during wipeouts. At 10 Over Surf Shop, our collection includes ankle leashes from reputable brands, offering durability and reliability for surfers of all levels. Ankle leashes are used on all board lengths, shortboards, mid-lengths and longboards. Ankle leashes vary in length, typically 6’ or 7’ long. 

Knee Leashes

Attached just below the knee instead of the ankle, these leashes provide surfers with increased manoeuvrability. This alternative attachment point is favored by some experienced surfers, particularly when it comes to cross-stepping a longboard. Positioning the surf leash higher on the leg aids in preventing the surfer from tripping while navigating the length of the surfboard. Knee leashes are only worn on longboards and are typically 9’ feet long.

Diverse Leash Selection at 10 Over Surf Shop

10 Over Surf Shop takes pride in offering a diverse range of leashes to cater to every surfer's needs. Our collection features top-quality leashes from renowned brands, ensuring you can ride the waves with confidence. Whether you're a fan of Captain Fin Company's innovative designs, Koalition's stylish options, or Creatures Of Leisure's commitment to performance, we have the perfect leash to complement your surfing journey.

When it comes to choosing between ankle and knee leashes, the decision ultimately boils down to personal preference and your specific surfing style. At 10 Over Surf Shop, we're here to support your passion for surfing by providing a curated selection of leashes from the best brands in the industry. Drop by our store or explore our online catalog to find the leash that suits you best. Enhance your surfing experience with the right gear from 10 Over Surf Shop – where quality and performance meet the waves.