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Surf leash size calculator

Your leash should be the same length as your board, or up to a foot longer. Between sizes, go up: a 6'5" board takes a 7ft leash. Then pick the cord for the surf you ride.

Updated 28 October 2026

Leash length by board length

Round your board length up to the next whole foot. A 6'5" board takes a 7ft leash and an 8'0" takes 8ft. In overhead surf, go one foot longer.

Leash length by board length
Board length	Leash	Sticky Johnson leash
Up to 6'0" (183 cm)	6ft	6 FT Comp Leash comp cord 6 FT Pro Comp Leash comp cord 6 FT Pro Leash regular cord, 7mm
6'1" to 7'0" (185–213 cm)	7ft	7 FT Leash regular cord, 7mm
7'1" to 8'0" (216–244 cm)	8ft	8 FT Leash regular cord
8'1" to 9'6" (246–290 cm)	9ft	9 FT Leash regular cord, 8mm
Over 9'6" (290 cm)	10ft	Closest fit: 9 FT Leash

Soft tops, fish and mid-lengths follow the same rule. Our 9 FT Leash comes with an ankle or a knee cuff.

Leash thickness by wave size

A thinner cord drags less; a thicker cord takes a bigger hit before it gives. When in doubt, go regular.

Leash thickness by wave size
Surf	Cord	Sticky Johnson leash
Small to medium, clean	Comp cord Thin, typically 5–6mm	6 FT Comp Leash 6 FT Pro Comp Leash
Everyday surf up to about head high	Regular cord Around 7mm	6 FT Pro Leash 7mm 7 FT Leash 7mm 8 FT Leash 9 FT Leash 8mm
Overhead and heavy	Heavy cord 8mm and up	None in our range: ask your local shop

Thicknesses in the Cord column are typical figures for each type of leash. Where a Sticky Johnson leash lists its own cord thickness, it's shown next to its name.

Leash size FAQ

What size surfboard leash do I need?

Match your leash length to your board length, or go slightly longer. A 6'0" board gets a 6' leash. If between sizes (e.g. 6'4"), round up to 7'. Beginners can go one foot longer for extra safety distance, but never more than that.

What size leash for a 7'6" board?

An 8ft leash. Match your board length or go up to the next foot, so 7'6" rounds up to 8ft. If you mostly ride it in overhead surf, go one foot longer again, to 9ft.

Should my leash be longer than my board?

About the same length, or up to a foot longer. Shorter and the board springs back at you when you fall. Much longer and it drags, tangles round your legs and lets the board drift into other surfers.

What is the difference between a comp leash and a regular leash?

Comp leashes are thinner (5–6mm) and lighter, creating less drag — ideal for small to medium waves and performance surfing. Regular leashes are thicker (7mm+), stronger, and better for larger waves, heavier boards, and beginners who put more strain on the leash.

What size leash for a soft top?

The same rule as any board: match the board length. A 7'0" soft top takes a 7ft leash and an 8'0" takes 8ft. Use a regular cord, because learners put more strain on a leash. You can go one foot longer while you're learning, but no more.

Ankle or calf leash for a longboard?

Either works. A knee (calf) cuff keeps the cord higher and out from under your feet when you cross-step or walk the board, which is why many longboarders prefer it. Our 9 FT Leash comes with an ankle cuff or a knee cuff.

What leash for a board over 9 feet?

Our 9 FT Leash is the longest we make, and we pair it with boards up to 9'6". Over 9'6" a 10ft leash is ideal. We don't make one yet, so our 9 FT is the closest fit.