The Best Way to Tie a Surfboard Leash

When you are in the water, the water is in control. If you get thrown from your surfboard you may be disoriented. You are at the mercy of the currents, depths and waves. A leash, tied you to your board, can help you. It will keep you attached to a flotation device in times of need. You want to tie your leash properly for a firm hold.

Things You'll Need

  • Ruler
  • Marker
  • 10 inches of parachute cord
  • Scissors
  • Lighter
  • Screwdriver or key
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure out 10 inches of parachute cord with a ruler. Mark the measurement with a marker and cut the cord on the mark with scissors.

    • 2

      Use a lighter to melt the fibers on the tips. Hold the ends of the parachute cord over the flame for less then a second. Roll the tips in between your fingers to seal the fray.

    • 3

      Fold the cord over on itself so the two sealed ends meet. Pull the cord taught between your hands and tie an overhand knot into the doubled-over cord. Lead with the unopened, folded edge, pulling it through the loop.

    • 4

      Pull the loop out so that the knot sits near the sealed ends. This will make a large parachute cord loop. Pull the knot tight.

    • 5

      Feed the loop end into the backside of the leash plug. Use a flathead screwdriver or car key to push the loop end through the plug. Pull the loop out of the other end of the leash plug, push the knotted end through the loop and pull the knot away from the board until the cord is tight.

    • 6

      Open the hook-and-loop tape on the board end of your leash. Feed the small strip of hook-and-loop tape through the knotted loop until the knot sets into the bottom of the leash. The bottom is the piece without hook-and-loop tape between the small and large strips of tape.

    • 7

      Seal the hook-and-loop tape. Fold the small strip over the knot into the larger strip. Fold the upper part of the larger strip over, onto the back of the smaller strip.

    • 8

      Take the other end of the leash and attach it around your ankle with the hook-and-loop tape.