Surf rash and chafing are two of those annoying things that can turn a great surf session into an uncomfortable one. It usually starts when repeated friction irritates the skin, leaving it red, sore, raw or stingy. Think wetsuit rub, board shorts, rash shirts, leg ropes or even repeated contact with your board.
It can happen in both warm and cold water. In warmer conditions, salt, sweat, sand and damp skin can all add to the friction, while in colder water, wetsuits can rub around the neck, underarms and other pressure points. Long sessions, multiple surfs in a day and poorly fitting gear can make things even worse.
The best approach is prevention.
- make sure your wetsuit or surf gear fits well
- rinse off sand and salt when you can, and give irritated skin a chance to recover between sessions
- applying a protective anti-chafe barrier (like SURFAH 2-n-1 Balm) to areas prone to rubbing before you paddle out can also help reduce friction and keep your skin happier.
Because really, the only thing you want to be thinking about after a good surf is when you can get back out there, not the sting of your wetsuit on the walk to the car.