58 chop , utilise surf stance and footwork on downwind , or surf landings , control the paddle for efficiency into the wind , navigating currents around headlands or over shallows , or having an efficient paddling style .
Using the wrong kit can make a trip miserable , too short a board or not enough volume in choppy conditions will struggle against the longer touring boards . Surf fin set up will reduce efficiency compared to a longer touring fin . Equally knowledge of different types of kit helps ensure it has been set up correctly and seaworthy . The same standards for personal flotation devices , either a PFD , lifejacket or buoyancy aid should be worn , and always a leash . Should a fault develop on the water due to cheap or poorly looked after equipment it could put the whole group at risk . A leader should check these .
Ideally , the personal skills should match up to the environment of the trip . If not , it is advisable to recommend coaching before taking a person out on exposed or extreme conditions . Equally carrying expedition kit will cause the boards to handle very differently , so flat water journeying and practice should ideally be encouraged first . Launching and landing skills can be very technical , so care is needed to ensure the group have the capability of going in / out through surf or tow back before committing to challenging more exposed beaches or coastal routes .