FAQ

Do you offer rentals?

Yes we do offer rentals! Here’s a little info on how they work and how to reserve. :)

During the Summer Months you can rent Surfboards and Stand Up Paddle Boards directly at the Beach at our Kincardine and Goderich locations. During the rest of the year we continue to offer rentals from all three store locations. It is your responsibility to transport the equipment to the beach! Renting for 2 days or more? check out our long term rentals! we deliver to your door at no extra cost! you must be within 30min of a SurfSup Location! Please note, all rentals will require a valid credit card presented at checkout. The card will be verified by the portal and you must agree to a damage withdrawal authorization up to $500. YOUR CARD WILL NOT BE CHARGED unless the board is lost or returned with significant damage outlined in the agreement and ONLY for the appropriate repair amount.

How do you keep your gear sanitized?

All boards, paddles, leashes, fins, and PFDs are washed between each use. Wetsuits are full day rentals only and are steam washed at the end of every day.

Do you offer lessons?

Yes! We offer Paddle and Surf lessons with certified instructors. Surf lessons are 2 hours and based around weather conditions so pay attention to wave forecasts. We suggest booking no more than 2-3 days in advance. Surf lessons are tailored to the individual's skill level but all strongly emphasize water safety, surf etiquette, and local hazards.

In the case of no waves, there is a lot to learn and still plenty of benefits to completing a lesson on flat water!

Where do I sign up for lessons?

You can sign up online through our website here: https://www.surfsupecoshop.com/lessons
Just choose your style of lesson and follow the prompts.

Where do I go for lessons/rentals?

This year, all lessons and rentals will take place at Station Beach in Kincardine unless otherwise coordinated with your instructor.

Do I need my own gear/what do I need to bring for lessons?

All gear required for your lesson will be provided (i.e. surfboard/paddleboard, leash, fin, and PFD). Wetsuits will also be supplied when necessary at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a bathing suit or something comfortable to wear in the water or under your wetsuit. As well as anything you would take for a day out in the sun (i.e. sunscreen, towel, hat, sunglasses).

What is your cancellation/rescheduling policy?

Rentals: We can accept cancellations up to 24 hours before your reservation and provide you with a full refund.

Lessons and Retreats: We can accept cancellations up to 48 hours before your reservation and provide you with a full refund.

Sunset Paddles: Due to the popularity of the program, we are unable to offer refunds.

Inclement Weather: In the event SurfSup CANCELS lessons/rentals for the day due to inclement weather, we will reschedule your appointment or provide a full refund if an alternate time can not be found. Choppy water does not count as inclement weather. Please check the weather report prior to your booking.

What happens if there are no waves on the day I rent my surfboard?

We cannot control the weather. Unfortunately, our boards do not come with guaranteed waves and there is no refund or transfer policy in regards to unfavourable conditions. We can give guidance as to when to book, however the responsibility relies solely on the renter to book according to conditions. We encourage you to make the best of the conditions mother nature gives you and maybe enjoy perfecting your paddle technique!

Can I teach myself how to surf?

The short answer is, no; surfing can be a dangerous sport! Learning how to gauge the proper conditions, local hazards, and surf etiquette is a must before venturing out on any wavy day! Taking a lesson is strongly recommended, if only for safety. In addition, self taught riders generally develop bad habits that can lead to injuries, quickly ending a career before it even starts. :(

Do I have to be a good swimmer?

The short answer: yes! Participating in water sports means you will be in the water and you may not always be able to touch the bottom. We highly recommend that you are comfortable in deep water and being held underwater for a brief period of time, especially if you intend on participating in surfing. Being a strong swimmer is not necessarily required although it is strongly encouraged. A good rule of thumb is to never go farther out than you think you could swim.

How can I tell when there will be waves?

Forecasting! How do you forecast?! Check out this link for basic info on surf weather! http://surfradar.info/publ/dashboards/huron/kincardine_on/8-1-0-27
Kincardine works best on N/NW/W winds and requires at least 2-3 ft to surf. We suggest taking a lesson if you’d like to further develop your forecasting skills!

When is the best time to surf?

The Great Lakes will produce waves any day there is on-shore wind! However, the most consistent and strongest waves occur in the colder months (i.e. fall through spring).

What thickness of wetsuit should I buy?

You can surf the Great Lakes until the water freezes! This means you are going to hit a variety of different temperatures. Generally speaking, in the warmer months 3/2mm and 4/3mm wetsuits are ideal while the colder months warrant suits thicker than 5/4mm along with booties and gloves 5-7mm. The most cost effective solution is to purchase a thicker suit and remove layers (boots and gloves) as the weather warms up.

What type/size of board should I buy?

This is very dependent on the surfers style, size, ability, and conditions they plan to shred. When shopping for a board it is important to note that fresh water is heavier than salt water; therefore a board with a higher volume will be beneficial and contribute to a more enjoyable experience! Reference the board specs in the details portion of our online store or talk to a member of the SurfSup team for more personalized questions and guidance starting or expanding your quiver.

What is your return policy?

All returns are issued as store credit or exchange. In order for us to accept your return, the product must be returned within 14 days of the original purchase date and include a receipt or proof of purchase. The product must also be in its original packaging with all tags attached and appear in its original state.

Online returns will be shipped back at the customer's expense. Store credit will not be issued until the item has been inspected and deemed suitable for credit. Credit will then be issued (minus the shipping cost) in the form of an electronic gift card.

How do you handle warranty claims?

We are so sorry to hear you have a faulty product! Unfortunately, we are unable to process warranty claims as we are not affiliated directly with the company. However, we would love to help guide you to the proper customer support resource! Check your product tag and locate the brand name. Then head to their website and they should have a warranty/return page under the “About” tab. From there you should be able to use their forum to express your complaint and attach photos of the damaged part. Should the company need any information from us after that, we would be happy to supply it; just forward us the request!