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Got a Leash String Handy?

By Jay DiMartino, About.com

Surfing without a leash is one of the best ways for an advanced surfer to sharpen his/her skills, but when your just starting and conditions are a bit hairy, always keep connected to your board because a lost board can put you or others at risk.

However, sometimes your leash will break, and then you are unable to surf safely. To avoid this, keep some things in mind.

First, always have a back up leash stashed in your trunk. This will help you if the leash is unfixable or if a buddy is in need. Another strategy is to save any strong strings (plastic coated is preferred or even strong shoe strings) that you come across during your day-to-day life to repair a broken leash string or parts of your leash.

I stash away little pieces of nylon rope whenever I see them like a squirrel saving for the winter. With a little thought, you can fix any part of a leash.

In fact, using the burner of your stove (or any heat source), you can melt together the rubbery cord that makes up the core of your leash. Stick each end to the burner and then push the soft heated ends together and hold them for a few minutes. This sounds crazy, but I've resurrected many leashes when funds were low and the waves were big.

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