Blue Crush: 2012 Women's Surf Essentials

Published on 07/17/2012

By Shelby Trueax

As a woman, finding great surf gear can be difficult sometimes. We’ve done all the research for you, so hunt no further. This list compiles the most durable, performance enhancing gear without compromising style and comfort, so you’re good to hit even the most intense waves all day long.

SUITS

Roxy Surf Essentials Surfer Bikini Bottoms

The title says it all for this season’s hottest surf essential. This bikini is far from flimsy; the contrast seams, and no-slip fit are too sporty to slow down any high-energy water sport. Wear it alone or under a wetsuit for maximum comfort and style, so when you hit the waves, they can’t hit you back.

Earn cash back on the Roxy Surf Essentials Bikini

Patagonia Women's Kupala Bikini Top

The Kupala combo allows you to twist, turn, bend, and swim in style with a no-slip fit and no riding-up. With the perfect amount of coverage, this surf-necessity will definitely move with you all day and withstand relentless sand, sun and sea. We recommend this suit for stylish surf babes that know what it takes to master the waves.

Earn cash back on the Patagonia Kupala Sunamee Bikini

BOARDSHORTS

Volcom Feel Free Boardshort

This style combines swim with surf, so no need for extra layers here. These shorts are designed for comfort and work perfectly for all-day wave riding. They’re made of stretchy swim fabric with a no-slip elastic waistband, so even the gnarliest wave won’t be able to jerk these tight-fitting shorts out of place.

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RVCA Extinguisher Boardshort

RVCA never fails to maximize style and comfort; the two-way stretch polyester fabric is so comfortable; you won’t even realize how resilient these boardshorts are. They have just the right amount of coverage to double as streetwear, so stroll the boardwalk or catch waves in style.

Earn cash back on the RVCA Extinguisher Boardshort

SUNGLASSES

Kaenon Polarized Bolsa

In the hot beachy sun, polarized lenses are a must. Kaenon offers top-notch protection with a stylish twist, and these shades are sure to stay put in or out of the water. They are lightweight and ultra comfortable as well, leaving your eyes in peak condition even if the rest of you takes a beating in the all-day heat. 

Earn cash back on the Kaenon Polarized Bolsa sunglasses

VonZipper Kickstand Polarized

These sleek, sporty shades are easy on the eyes with their polarized protection and sexy design. Sport or street, you’ll be riding in style while achieving maximum comfort in any weather conditions, ‘cause these A+ lenses are smudge, scratch, and life-proof. Salt water tested, surfer approved.

Earn cash back on the VonZipper Kickstand sunglasses

WETSUITS

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 3/2 GB Full Suit - Women's

The maneuverability and warmth of this suit are incomparable, which is why it ranks as the #1 women’s wetsuit on our gear list. The lightweight E3 neoprene fabric allows flexibility while maintaining warmth, but never too warm to make you sweat. The unpredictably wild surf won’t stand a chance against the water-resistant blue steel zips. So rise and shine ‘cause the morning chills go completely unnoticed underneath the Dawn Patrol suit.

Earn cash back on the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Wetsuit

O’Neill Reactor 3/2 Spring Wetsuit- Women’s

O’Neill has done it again with this super-snug, chill-proof spring 3/2 style wetsuit - it's perfect for mediocre weather. The neoprene/Fluid Flex fabric is smooth and seamless, preventing chafing and harsh winds. The Super Seal collar seals out water for diving, so there’s nothing that will slow down your cool-weather wave-crushing escapade.

Earn cash back on the O-Neill Reactor Wetsuit