Why the body surfing handplane is the ultimate gift for surfers.

There is something special about surfers. They are a unique breed; happy-go-lucky, adventurous people who value, above all else, their time in nature. With at least 35 million surfers worldwide, surfing is a sport that's still growing in popularity. The sport made its Olympic debut at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Surfing on such a grand stage appeared on TV screens worldwide for the first time in history, boosting interest in this riveting sport. 

We think they might be onto something. The ocean encourages physical strength and mental agility, and as many avid surfers will confirm, it's good for the soul. Surfing also releases adrenaline and endorphins, which may explain why surfers seem so ready to sit back and throw a shaka. In fact, a study conducted in 2014 that aimed to measure the effects of surfing and the natural environment on the well-being of combat veterans found that participants had an improved mood, felt "released from suffering," and were more willing to discuss their experiences. 

Perhaps the view from your vantage point is that surfers seem to have it all with a board wrapped under their arms. This contentedness might pose a challenge for buying them a gift ... after all, how many surfboards does a surfer really need? Although the answer to that question might be more than you think, a surfboard isn't always a viable or affordable option. 

That's where the handplane comes in. We are introducing the ultimate gift for all adventurous souls, especially surfers! 

What is a handplane? 

A bodysurfing handplane, otherwise known as a handboard, or hand surfer, is a planing device worn on the lead hand of a bodysurfer to enhance the bodysurfing experience by generating lift and reducing drag. This allows the bodysurfer to surf faster and ride the wave for longer. 

How do you use it?

Using a handplane is a little bit different from bodysurfing. However, the basic concept is the same; you only need to head out to about waist deep or however far you would usually go when bodysurfing. Then, when a desirable wave is approaching, place your dominant hand in the strap and begin to swim in the direction the wave is heading. Because of the shape and design of the handplane, when you stretch out your arm, it will begin to aquaplane across the water's surface. The handplane creates lift, allowing the bodysurfer to hold their arm on top of the surface compared to standard bodysurfing, where the hand will go through the wave. Having your hand above the water causes a significant decrease in drag and a massive increase in speed. To get the most out of each wave, we recommend combining your handplane with a pair of fins for extra speed. For more tips on how to body surf, check out our Bodysurfing Tips page. 

Why opt for a handplane? 

With the handplane, you can catch more waves and ride them for longer, making your experience more entertaining. The average surfer is used to catching bigger waves than those bodysurfers usually catch, so any boost in speed is usually welcomed. In addition, riders can kick a little less with handplanes, making catching waves easier and turning even a regular day into an adventure. 

Why is a handplane an excellent gift for surfers?

Use it anytime and anywhere.

Its lightweight and compact design make this handplane ideal for wherever you go. Its size means it's excellent for those beaches that require a little jungle trek to get there, the ones only the locals know. 

It can simply slip into a surfboard bag or be stored in the car, waiting for anytime the waves aren't quite right for a surf. 

Although surfers often check surf forecasts before heading out for the day, nature is unpredictable, and it can be frustrating having carved out a few hours for a surf only to see choppy or small surf. So having another way to enjoy a warm day while still catching waves on the shore is ideal. 

One reviewer had this to say:

"Bought it for my partner and he loves it! When the waves are too small for a body board or a surfboard he still has the fun of catching some cool waves. Has a little pouch it sits in and we keep it in the car for the spontaneous swim adventures :)" - Allira. 

So whether Surf's Up 🤙 or not, the WAW Handplane is almost always an option. 

They are made for both beginners and experts. 

Handplanes are designed to improve the bodysurfing experience by providing extra lift and reducing drag. Due to its design, the handplanes shape allows riders, both experienced and new to the sport, to move faster and catch waves for more extended periods. 

When you are getting started as a surfer, handplaning can be a great way to get a feel for the ocean without the stress of carrying out a surfboard. If you're lucky, you might find yourself pitted in a barrel earlier in your surfing career than anticipated. 

Alternatively, more experienced surfers may want to break it up a little and have a splash on the shore break, catching some easy waves just to have fun. 

An added benefit is that all the WAW Handplanes are naturally buoyant, And they all come with a safety wrist leash, so it would be very difficult to lose them in the ocean.

Pricing

At only $69.95, WAW Handplanes are affordable. Additionally, they are made from durable materials like recycled ocean plastic and sustainable timber. Besides being a fair price, you are guaranteed that your recipient will enjoy your gift for many years to come. 

All our handplanes are covered under our WAWrriors warranty, covering them for two years from the purchase date for any mechanical faults.

Sustainability 

"GET BARRELLED. LEAVE NO TRACE." 

That's our tagline; it represents our approach towards sustainability and leaving nature just the way we found it, encouraging all of our customers to do the same while enjoying the wonders of the ocean.

Naturally, most surfers are conscious of their environmental impact due to spending so much time in nature. Luckily WAW Handplanes is a certified sustainable brand that walks the talk by using sustainable materials—but also taking it one step further; we plant a native tree for every timber handplane sold. 

WAW Badfish

WAW Badfish comes in multiple colours and is made from recycled plastic found along Australia's Great Barrier Reef. That means your purchase includes not only a fun new toy for yourself or your surfing-obsessed loved one, but it's helping to clean our oceans. 

WAW Timber

The WAW timber collection includes four different styles:

• Pinstripe Fish
• Naked Fish
• Arrow Fish 

Whichever style is your favourite, you can trust that they are all made using sustainably harvested timber. 

The handplane strap is also environmentally friendly, as well as being the strongest strap on the market. The handplane strap is made using Yulex Pure plant-based rubber, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council and the Rainforest Alliance. In addition, the polyester velcro is recycled, and Aquas solvent-free glues have been used for construction. 

We hope you have found the perfect gift for your favorite surfing-addicted friend or family member. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to reach out and contact us.