Short of ordering the perfect morning swell, finding the right gift for a surfer can be a real trial. Let’s face it, there are only so many different types of wax you can order. With our fair share of surfers to celebrate birthdays and Christmases with, we’ve gone down quite the rabbit hole to root out the perfect present.
Here are our top picks for this year, from the little to the large:
Littler gifts
Board Stickers by Sophie Fletcher
We know this is only one up from surf wax BUT it’s a great way to support local artists too. It’s a chance to give an old board a new lease of life. Having done a collab with Sophie in the past, we can lay testament to how great her designs are. You (and the lucky recipient) won’t be disappointed!
Zinc by Sun & Earth
It wouldn’t be a Plow blog without mentioning sun safety, and this is one of the most sun-safe gifts you can give your surfer pals. We love Sun & Earth’s zine because it’s sustainably handmade in Byron Bay. Remember when buying sun cream to make sure it’s reef safe (like this one).
Lifetime Reusable Cup or Bottle by Moon Bottles
Stainless steel, insulated water bottles and travel mugs but with a few twists that make them stand out. Firstly, the lifetime guarantee is a solid thumbs up for sustainability and quality. It’s also a female-led Australian founded and owned brand who are committed to their environmental mission. This is a super practical gift if they love a post session coffee and debrief with mates, or a bottle to take to the beach.
Surf Hat by Plow
We know this is a little indulgent but it’s the gift that will keep their skin safe in the surf. They’re the comfiest, coolest hats out there, and it’s not just us that think that! Check out some of our reviews here.
Larger gifts
Balance Board by Barefoot & Salty
We discovered these 100% Australian made balance board by chance and we’re glad we did! The groms LOVE them and they’re perfect when they’re learning to surf too. A perfect gift for the whole family - suitable for adults and groms too.
A Sun Club Shacket
A favourite among the Plow team, Sun Club is owned and run by the wonderful Summer. The
shackets are made from vintage towels so not only do they look incredible but you’ll be doing your part for the environment too.
Sustainable Tide Watch by Nixon
One of our team has a Nixon Siren surf watch and almost 3 years on is as in love with it as ever! There are several sustainable watches in the Nixon range, made from recycled plastic, including the ever-popular Staple. Hopefully you won't need to try it out but their customer service is next-level too.
A shaping session
Learning how to shape a board is an incredible experience. It’s not a one session kind of thing, but this is a great way to get a feel for what shaping actually involves. This is one for the real keen beans that nerd it out over board specs and want to get every inch of performance out. It’s a great way to get to know your local shaper too.
Shaping lessons/ demos range in price from ~$200 for an intro to $1500 for full weekend courses. Search locally to see who does it in your area or ask your local board shop. There’s some great options up in the Gold Coast, such as Harveys, if you need another excuse to head up there to hit the surf!
If you take one thing away from this guide, let it be shopping locally and sustainably. We’re sure the recipient will love your gift but even if they don’t, that way you’re supporting a local business and shopping responsibly so you can feel good regardless.
Seen something you think we should include in our guide? Let us know - we’d love to hear from you!