1. Surfboard A versatile stick like the Channel Islands Fishcuit, a short and wide four-finned model, can handle everything from thigh-high mush to overhead walls. Available from 5'2" to 6'4". $640; cisurfboards.com

2. Wetsuit Quiksilver's super-stretchy Cypher neoprene full suit maximizes mobility while keeping you toasty. Three millimeters thick in the chest, two in the limbs. $360; quiksilver.com

3. Leash You may find a cheaper leash, but Dakine's Kainui Team is the most comfortable and durable one on the market. $23; dakine.com

4. Watch Never miss another set with Rip Curl's titanium Ultimate Oceansearch, which comes preprogrammed with tide data for 200 beaches worldwide. $400; ripcurl.com

5. Trunks Patagonia's Wavefarer II Board Shorts are practically perfect—simply styled, quick-drying, and cut from recyclable nylon. $50; patagonia.com • Tip: Pair trunks with O'Neill's Skins Shorts liner, like many pros do, to help prevent thigh rashes. $32; oneill.com

6. Wax Sticky Bumps Soy Wax is 100 percent natural and still provides plenty of grip. $2; stickybumps.com

7. Top Not only is Body Glove's millimeter-thick Eco pullover more versatile than a shorty wetsuit; it's also made from crushed limestone, not petroleum. $90; bodyglove.com