Body surfing has long been considered one of the purest forms of wave riding, offering a direct connection to the ocean without the need for large boards or bulky equipment. But in recent years, an accessory has emerged that is transforming the way wave riders experience the ocean: body surfing hand planes. These sleek, innovative tools have taken body surfing to new heights, enhancing speed, control, and overall wave performance. If you’re a body surfer looking to elevate your skills or simply want to try something new, hand planes are a must-have addition to your gear.
In this article, we’ll explore what body surfing hand planes are, how they enhance the wave-riding experience, and why they should be a key part of your water sports toolkit. Plus, if you’re looking for top-quality hand planes in Australia, we’ll recommend WAW Handplanes, a trusted brand known for producing eco-friendly, high-performance hand planes.
What Are Body Surfing Hand Planes?
A body surfing hand plane is a small, paddle-like device designed to be strapped to one hand while you ride a wave. The purpose of a hand plane is simple: to lift your body slightly out of the water, reducing drag and allowing for smoother, faster rides. Typically made from materials like wood, foam, or recycled plastic, hand planes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each optimized for different wave conditions and riding styles.
While the concept may sound straightforward, the impact of a well-designed hand plane on your body surfing performance can be profound. Whether you’re an experienced body surfer or just starting out, using a hand plane can make your rides longer, faster, and more controlled.
How Hand Planes Improve the Body Surfing Experience
- Increased Speed and Lift: One of the main advantages of using a hand plane is the added lift it provides, which keeps more of your body above the water’s surface. This reduction in drag means you can maintain higher speeds while riding a wave, allowing you to catch and ride more challenging swells that might be difficult to handle without a hand plane.
- Better Control and Maneuverability: Hand planes aren’t just about speed they’re also about control. The plane gives you better directional control, allowing you to carve through waves with precision. This makes it easier to steer toward the sweet spot of the wave or avoid unwanted sections that could slow you down or throw you off balance.
- Longer Rides: By lifting your body higher and reducing drag, hand planes allow for longer rides. Without the added resistance of being fully submerged, you can glide along the wave for extended periods, maximizing your time on the water.
- Environmentally Friendly Options: Many hand plane manufacturers, including WAW Handplanes, are committed to sustainable practices, producing eco-friendly products. WAW Handplanes, in particular, offers hand planes made from recycled ocean plastics and sustainably sourced wood. This not only ensures top-tier performance but also minimizes environmental impact, a win for surfers who love the ocean and want to protect it.
Why Hand Planes Are a Must-Have for Wave Riders
For body surfers, a hand plane isn’t just an accessory it’s a tool that enhances the entire wave-riding experience. Whether you’re looking to improve your speed, gain more control, or simply enjoy longer, smoother rides, a hand plane will help you achieve your goals.
Beyond performance, using a hand plane is also an exciting way to challenge yourself in the water. Body surfing with a hand plane can add a new layer of fun and excitement to your wave-riding routine, encouraging you to explore different types of waves and conditions. Plus, hand planes are compact and easy to carry, making them a convenient addition to your beach bag without taking up too much space.
Choosing the Right Hand Plane
When selecting a hand plane, it’s important to consider factors like material, size, and shape, as these will affect how the plane performs in different wave conditions. Smaller hand planes are generally better for quick, steep waves, while larger planes offer more lift and stability in slower, mushier waves.
Material is another key consideration. Wooden hand planes, such as those offered by WAW Handplanes, tend to provide a more natural feel in the water and are highly durable. On the other hand, foam and plastic hand planes are lightweight and often more buoyant, which can be a plus for beginners.
Why We Recommend WAW Handplanes
If you’re looking for high-quality body surfing hand planes in Australia, WAW Handplanes is a standout option. Known for their commitment to sustainability and performance, WAW produces hand planes that are not only eco-friendly but also designed with the serious body surfer in mind.
WAW Handplanes offers a range of options, including:
- Recycled Ocean Plastic Hand Planes: These are made from recycled ocean waste, contributing to a cleaner, healthier marine environment while providing excellent performance in the water.
- Sustainable Wooden Hand Planes: Sourced from sustainably managed forests, these hand planes offer a premium feel and long-lasting durability.
WAW’s dedication to crafting eco-conscious products without compromising on performance makes them a top choice for body surfers who care about the environment. Plus, their hand planes are designed to be versatile, performing well in a variety of wave conditions, from small, shore-breaking waves to larger, more powerful swells.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned body surfer or new to the sport, adding a hand plane to your gear can significantly improve your performance in the water. The increased speed, control, and lift provided by a hand plane make it a must-have tool for anyone looking to take their wave riding to the next level.
If you’re ready to enhance your body surfing experience, we highly recommend checking out WAW Handplanes. Not only do they offer some of the best hand planes on the market, but they also prioritize sustainability, helping you protect the ocean while enjoying it to the fullest. So next time you hit the waves, don’t forget your hand plane it’s a game-changer.
