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A sock cover is the simplest, lightest way to protect your surfboard. No zips, no padding — just a stretchy fabric sleeve that slips over your board and keeps it scratch-free, UV-protected, and clean between surfs. If you're not travelling with your board and just need everyday protection, a sock is all you need.

They're also great for keeping sand and wax off the inside of your car, and for stacking boards without them rubbing against each other.

Sock cover vs padded bag — which do you need?

  • Sock cover — lightweight, easy to use, protects against UV, scratches, and wax transfer. Best for everyday use, short trips, and storing boards at home.
  • Padded bag — foam padding protects against knocks and impacts. Essential for flying or any trip where your board is going in a vehicle boot or being handled by others.

If you're travelling, check out our single surfboard bags for padded options. For the full range of board protection, browse all surf accessories.

Also shopping for a new board? Browse our surfboards range — from beginner boards through to advanced shapes.

Got Questions? we have answers!

FAQ's

What's the difference between a sock cover and a padded surfboard bag?

A sock cover is a lightweight fabric sleeve that slips over your board to protect it from UV damage, scratches, and wax transfer during everyday use. It has no padding, so it won't protect against hard knocks or impacts.

A padded surfboard bag has foam padding (typically 5mm–10mm) that absorbs impacts and protects your board during travel, especially when flying or transporting your board in a vehicle where it might get knocked around.

For daily use around home and the beach, a sock cover is all you need. If you're travelling — particularly flying — go for a padded bag.

What size sock cover do I need?

Sock covers are sized by board length. Measure your board from nose to tail and choose a sock that matches or is slightly longer than your board length. Most socks have some stretch so they'll accommodate boards within a size range.

As a general guide:
• 5'0"–5'6" — suits shortboards and small fish
• 5'6"–6'0" — suits most shortboards
• 6'0"–6'6" — suits mid-length shortboards and fish
• 6'6"–7'6" — suits funboards and mid-lengths
• 7'6"–9'6" — suits longboards

If you're between sizes, size up — a slightly loose sock is better than one that's too tight and puts pressure on your fins or tail.

Do sock covers protect against heat and UV damage?

Yes — a sock cover provides meaningful protection against UV exposure and heat buildup, which are two of the biggest causes of surfboard delamination and yellowing over time.

Leaving a board in direct sunlight — especially in a hot car — can cause the foam core to expand and the fibreglass to delaminate. A sock cover (particularly a reflective or light-coloured one) reduces heat absorption significantly.

For maximum UV and heat protection, store your board in the shade and use a sock cover whenever it's not in use.

Can I use a sock cover for travelling with my surfboard?

A sock cover alone is not enough protection for travelling, especially flying. Airlines handle boards roughly and a sock provides no impact protection.

For travel, you need a padded surfboard bag with at least 5mm of foam padding — ideally 10mm for flights. You can use a sock cover inside a padded bag for an extra layer of scratch protection, which is a good idea if you're travelling with multiple boards.

Check out our single surfboard bags for padded travel options.