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Spring's arrived on the east coast and the water's finally starting to lose that bone-deep winter chill. It's the perfect time to swap your setup over before the change catches you out mid-session — nothing kills the vibe of a warming morning session like realising your gear is still dialled in for July. Here's what to check as the seasons turn.
Ease Out of the Thick Rubber
If you've been living in a 4/3mm or a hooded steamer all winter, you don't need to jump straight to boardshorts — Australian spring mornings can still bite, especially south of the Sunshine Coast. Most surfers step down gradually: a 3/2mm through September and October before going sleeveless once the water properly warms. Whatever you're wearing, give it a proper rinse and check the seams and zip for wear before you get back into a regular rotation.
A suit that's been balled up in a bag since June needs airflow, not another cold folded night in the boot of the car. Hanging it on a proper Ocean Earth Premium Wetsuit Hanger between dawnies dries it out properly and stops that lingering mildew smell before it starts.
Check Your Leash
Spring swells tend to have more push in them than the mellow winter beach breaks, and a leash that's spent months getting yanked around in bigger surf is exactly the kind of thing that fails when you least expect it. Give the cord, the rail saver, and the cuff a proper inspection — if the cord's gone milky or the swivel is stiff, it's time for a fresh one. The FCS Essential Surf Leash 6ft is a solid, no-fuss upgrade with a higher break strength than most stock leashes, built for exactly this kind of swell.
Fins and Wax for Warmer Water
As the water warms, wax that worked fine in winter can turn slick and gummy underfoot by lunchtime. Rather than fighting old wax, scrape it back with a proper tool — the Wax Comb with Fin Key does double duty, clearing old wax and letting you pull your fins for a once-over at the same time. While you're in there, check for chips or play in the fin boxes; a loose fin will cost you drive on bigger spring sets.
If you're due for a refresh, the FCS II Performer PC Tri Fin Set is a versatile all-rounder that handles the mixed conditions spring tends to throw up, and the Sticky Bumps Surf Wax 4-Pack holds grip reliably as water temps climb through the transition.
Give the Rest of the Quiver a Look
Spring is also a good excuse to check leash plugs, traction pads, and board bag zips while everything's out and being inspected anyway — small fixes now save you a session-ending scramble later when the first proper spring swell rolls in.
Ready to get your kit sorted before the swell turns on? Browse the full range of surf accessories at shoreset.com.au.
