Everything you need to start surfing in the UK — from learning the basics and choosing your first board to finding the right surf school and getting into the water.
LEARN
Step-by-step online surf lessons designed to take you from complete beginner to confident surfer — with practical, UK-focused knowledge along the way.
EXPLORE
Your growing library of beginner surf guides, equipment advice and practical knowledge to help you make better decisions before you hit the water.
FIND
Find surf schools, instructors and places to learn across the UK. Discover local coaching and find the right place to begin your surfing journey.
Founded in the heart of the UK’s surfing scene, Alder has become one of Britain’s most respected and longest-standing surf brands. Established over 50 years ago by passionate surfer Bob Westlake, Alder was born from a simple idea — to create high-quality surfing products designed specifically for the cold and demanding waters of the British coastline.
During the 1960s, surfing in the UK was still in its infancy, and authentic surf apparel was difficult to find. Recognising this gap in the market, Bob Westlake and his wife Annie began producing some of the very first surf clothing and boardshorts in Britain from their family farm in Devon. Their passion for surfing and commitment to craftsmanship laid the foundations for what would eventually become Alder Sportswear.
Over the decades, Alder has evolved into a trusted name within UK surf culture, developing an extensive range of wetsuits, bodyboards, surf accessories, neoprene products, and surf school equipment. Known for combining performance, durability, comfort, and affordability, Alder products are designed by surfers who understand the unique challenges of British and European waters.
Alder’s heritage is deeply connected to grassroots surfing, supporting surf schools, local riders, and generations of surfers learning their craft along the UK coastline. The brand has also worked with respected surfers and competitors throughout its history, helping cement its reputation within the surfing community.
Today, Alder continues to innovate with modern wetsuit technologies, eco-conscious materials, and performance-driven designs while remaining true to its original mission — creating reliable surf equipment that makes surfing accessible to everyone. With roots firmly planted in Devon and a heritage built on authentic British surfing culture, Alder remains a favourite among beginner and experienced surfers alike.
UK 2-3 Working Day from dispatch
International - Calculated at checkout based on location
Standard UK
Most items on our store incur a postage fee and will be automatically added to your order at checkout. Our shipping costs vary according to the item chosen and will be displayed at checkout after you have entered you shipping address.
You will be able to view any postage charges in your order summary before committing to buy. Our regular UK delivery is either via Evri Courier or Royal Mail. Although some items may arrive via APC Courier, or DPD depending on size etc.
Delivery estimates for these services are approx 2-3 working days from dispatch (handling time approx 1 working day), and the price of this postage will be visible at checkout.
Surfboards Domestic UK
Standard UK (England, Wales, Scottish Lowlands)
Surfboards are not covered in standard shipping, simply due to their size and weight. We have a variable shipping cost for Surfboards and this is added at checkout once a customer address has been added.
As a guide, prices start from £17.50 for most foam surfboards. Maximum current price is approx £25 UK Mainland.
Surfboards are shipped via DX Freight or Parcelforce and delivery estimate for this service is 2 working days from dispatch.
We use a selection of UK couriers for domestic delivery. The vast majority of our items are dispatched via the Evri courier service. A tracking ID will be automatically sent to your email after dispatch. Check your inbox for our dispatch confirmation email. Follow progress of your parcel using the tracking link supplied in this email.
Dispatch Time - We aim to dispatch all orders within approx 2 working days from the date of order. Delivery estimate is added to this 'dispatch time' to give you estimated date of delivery.
'Made to order' items such as T-Shirts and Hoodies, have a lead time of approx 6 working days plus delivery times. If you're unsure, just drop us a message and we'll be happy to offer you further info.
Further Info
A signature may not always be required for delivery and if there is no one available to take delivery our carriers may attempt to leave it with a neighbour or in a safe, secure location.
A card may be left to advise this to you, or to confirm that the parcel has been returned to the local depot. You can then contact them to arrange collection or to schedule a new delivery date.
Ordered item must be inspected for any potential damage at the time of arrival and reported within 48 hours. To report any damage on arrival, please tap the live chat button and leave your message along with your order number and email address. If you have some photos of the damage, please attach these to your message. We'll get back to you asap with a solution.
Need some help or advice? Easiest way to get in touch is tap the blue 'Chat' button at the bottom of your screen. If we're not available, leave your query along with your name and and we'll get back to you asap.
Or if you live nearby, why not drop by our 'bricks and mortar' store in Sunderland to get that 'hands on' experience with our gear!
To find us, check out the Google Map below..
Sunderland Store Address:
Bob Gnarly Surf Ltd
78 Hylton Road
Sunderland
SR4 7BB
Bricks & Mortar Shop Opening Hours
For up to date shop opening hours, please visit our Google Profile by clicking here
Also check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for up to date info.
Regardless of your contact method, we are happy to help and we look forward to being of service.
Learning to surf? Choosing your first gear? Looking for somewhere to learn? We've built three resources to help you on your journey.
When you buy from Bob Gnarly Surf, you’re not just getting top-tier gear—you’re supporting a trusted local 'bricks and mortar' surf shop known for its quality products along with expert advice from a small band of surfers here at the shop. And of course, killer customer service!
Fast Shipping
Safe, Secure and Familiar Payment Options
Interest Free Split Payments via Klarna & Clearpay
