Surf

Surf in Amsterdam at Behind The Pines Amsterdam

Surf in Amsterdam is shaped by changing wind, cold water and quick decisions. At Behind The Pines we curate surf gear for Dutch conditions, with wetsuits, boards and accessories that make sense for the North Sea coast as well as daily life in the city. The range is built around reliable performance, practical materials and a clean fit.

Gear for North Sea conditions

Surfing near Amsterdam means dealing with shifting weather, water temperature and a lot of time in transit between home, the shop and the beach. That is why the collection leans on technical surf equipment that stays warm, durable and easy to use. From entry-level boards to advanced wetsuits, everything here is selected with real sessions in mind.

If you are building a setup from scratch, start with wetsuits and then add the pieces that support your sessions: surf accessories, surfboard leashes, surfboard fins and surf wax.

Wetsuits for cold, changing water

A good North Sea wetsuit needs to do three things well: hold warmth, keep movement free and dry fast enough to be practical between sessions. We focus on suits with the right balance of stretch and insulation, plus details that matter in colder water such as sealed seams, strong entry systems and a close fit through the shoulders and lower back.

For colder months, thicker suits and added accessories become important. Think booties, gloves and a hood when the wind picks up. For a better overview of thickness, fit and construction, check the wetsuit guide.

To keep your gear organised and protected, look at boardsocks and surfboard bags, especially if you travel with your board by train or car.

Surfboards and what they are for

The right surfboard depends on your level, the kind of waves you usually surf and how much stability you want under your feet. Soft-tops are a solid choice for learners and easy summer sessions. Shortboards work better when you want more control and response. Mid-lengths and longer boards offer more paddle power and a calmer ride, which can make sense in smaller or softer surf.

Our surfboards collection covers different shapes for different surf styles, while surfboards explained helps you compare volume, length and outline before you buy.

Useful extras that make the session smoother

Small parts make a big difference when you surf regularly. A solid leash, the right fins and fresh wax all affect how the board feels in the water. After the session, a poncho or towel helps with changing on the beach, while repair products keep minor dings from becoming bigger problems.

We keep the basics in one place: surfboard leashes, surfboard fins, surf wax, surf repair and maintenance and ponchos and towels.

Surf apparel for city and coast

Surfing in Amsterdam is not only about the water. The same layers that work on a windy beach often work well back in the city. We stock technical clothing that moves easily between coast, bike and everyday wear, including light layers, sun protection and pieces you can throw on after a session.

For warmer days and travel, take a look at surf clothing and surf shirts and lycras. If you spend long days outdoors, these pieces help with UV protection, wind resistance and easy layering.

How to choose the right setup

If you surf mostly in spring, autumn and winter, prioritise warmth and fit over everything else. A slightly better wetsuit is usually the most useful investment. If you are still learning, choose a board with more volume and stability so you can focus on positioning and paddling instead of fighting the board.

When travelling with gear, storage matters. A surfboard bag protects against transport damage, and a boardsock is useful for shorter trips or indoor storage. If you are unsure about the right board type for your level, the surfboards explained guide is a good place to start.

Why choose surf gear at Behind The Pines?

We do not carry surf product just to fill a category. We pick items that work in the conditions our customers actually face: cold water, changing forecasts and a mix of beach days and city use. That means practical board shapes, wetsuits with proper stretch and accessories that hold up over time.

Our team knows the difference between gear that looks right and gear that performs when conditions turn. If you need help choosing a wetsuit thickness, comparing board shapes or building a first surf setup, we can help you narrow it down.

Frequently asked questions

What wetsuit do I need for the North Sea?
It depends on the season, water temperature and how cold you get. For colder months, choose a thicker suit with good sealing and a close fit. In spring and autumn, a lighter suit may be enough if you run warm.

Should I buy a soft-top or a hardboard first?
If you are learning, a soft-top is usually the easiest and most forgiving option. If you already surf with control and want more response, a hardboard makes more sense.

How do I choose the right board size?
Look at your weight, skill level and the waves you surf most often. More volume gives more paddle power and stability, while smaller boards feel looser and more technical. Our board guide helps break this down.

Do I need fins, a leash and wax separately?
Yes, in most cases. These are essential parts of the setup and affect how the board performs, how safe it is and how much grip you have under your feet.

How do I store my surf gear?
Rinse it after use, dry it fully and keep boards covered when travelling or storing them. Use bags or socks to reduce dings and extend the life of the board.

Shop surf gear at Behind The Pines Amsterdam

Build your setup with the right mix of performance, comfort and durability. Explore our surf collection and find the wetsuits, boards and accessories that fit your conditions, your level and your routine.