Don’t skimp here, bro. A good leash is your lifeline to your board, preventing a dangerous swim and protecting others in the lineup. Key things: match the cord length to your board size, get a solid swivel to prevent tangling, and check the cuff for comfort. A thicker, 7mm+ cord is best for bigger, more powerful surf. It’s a simple piece of gear, but a snapped leash on a big day is a surefire way to ruin a session.