Not looking to start a debate about strapped v unstrapped here just after some pointers.

I've surf a bit and am now transitioning from TT to a custom built epoxy 5'6 surfboard. Been out a few times both in the river (learning to jibe/switch) and now have done 3 sessions in the ocean. Currently dont have straps on my board (or inserts) and have been struggling to stay on my board (spesh after jibes and out the back in the big chop) so much so, I'm thinking about getting straps.

The times i've been down its been reasonably windy 20knots+ and powered up (bad?). I'd say i saw about 90% of all surfers riding strapped while i was out. Should I consider going strapped as well? It looks like a lot of fun getting air (and not falling off the back of chop).

Is there anything I should focus on in particular?

Cheers,

Cherub

Agreed .. if you like surfing more than jumping, and the freedom of being able to move your feet around the board to trim it, then stick with it, your progression will be really fast, and the rewards are worth it.

Some articles on how to gybe in the News/How'To section..

Using straps will be easier but you don't have inserts....

Tips:

- Use the smallest kite possible. For me this is 90% of the time the 6m or 8m. You should feel slightly under-powered and need to work the kite a bit. Powered riding strapless is not fun!

- Go slow through the chop.

- Bend knees through the chop.

- With jibes I jump rather than step as I find this easier. Surprisingly I fall off less If I look at the board where my front foot is before doing the jump/jibe.

Thanks for the advice/replies, I'll hold off on the straps and head out on my 7 next time the wind is in (all week YEOW!! ), hopefully do a downwinder so i can focus on riding waves rather than battling the chop out the back!

Cheers all

Dave