The Ultimate Strike Mission Packing List (What We Actually Use)
As surfers who have spent years chasing swells around the globe, we know firsthand that surf travel comes with a lot of uncertainties. You can't control the winds, the tides, or the airline baggage handlers. But you can control the variables you pack in your bag.
Having the right equipment—gear that you trust completely—makes life on the road infinitely easier. When you are miles away from the nearest surf shop, you need products that you know will work for you and will deliver.
We’ve tried and tested many pieces of gear over the years, and the list below represents the elite few that made our favorites list. We can confidently say these are some of the top products on the market in their respective categories. This is the exact gear we rely on for a Vital Mission to Northern Nicaragua.
1. Travel & Board Protection
You can't progress if your boards show up in pieces or your clothes are soaked before you even reach the resort.
Faro Board Bags
Why we love it: When you are traveling internationally, peace of mind is everything. Faro bags are incredibly high-quality and come with an amazing lifetime warranty so you can feel confident your products will last forever and keep your precious board safe.
Vital Pro-Tip: Get a bag slightly bigger than your step-up to fit extra towels and wetsuits for added rail padding during the flight.
SOVRN Republic Backpacks / Luggage
Why we love it: Boat trips and tropical rainstorms demand gear that can take a beating. SOVRN Republic offers durable and amazing quality travel luggage with water-resistant capabilities (all their bags are carry-on approved!). We rely heavily on them to keep our essentials protected on the panga boats.
Vital Pro-Tip: Keep your sunscreen, wax, and a dry shirt in the easily accessible outer pockets for quick grabs between sessions.
2. Sun Defense
The sun down here is no joke. If you get sunburned on Day 1, your progression on Day 3 is going to suffer.
Sunmud Sunscreen
Why we love it: This is our absolute favorite face coverage. It is a reef-safe and environmentally friendly product, intentionally made with the most high-quality, natural ingredients that allow the sunscreen to stay on all day, no matter what the adventure is.
Vital Pro-Tip: The best part of this sunscreen is that it’s highly water resistant, which means you don’t need to let it settle into your skin. Just apply and get wet!
Florence Marine X Hooded Rashguard
https://www.florencemarinex.com/collections/rashguards-windshields/
Why we love it: When you are doing 3-hour sessions in the blazing Nicaraguan sun, standard sunscreen isn't always enough. John Florence’s gear is built for high performance—these rash guards don't ride up over your stomach when you wipe out, and the hood completely saves your neck and ears from getting scorched.
Vital Pro-Tip: Keep the hood up while you're sitting and waiting for sets, then just pull it back when you paddle into a wave so you have 100% of your peripheral vision. This especially helps if you’re looking for barrels!
Plow Surf Co. Surf Hats
Why we love it: If you want to maximize your water time without completely frying your face and eyes, a good surf hat is non-negotiable. Plow makes super light and breathable bucket hats and caps that actually stay on your head when you duck dive or take a wipeout, and the stiff brim won't flop down and block your vision.
Vital Pro-Tip: Make sure you cinch the chin strap properly before paddling out. If you are about to take a heavier set wave on the head, just tilt your chin down slightly as you duck dive to let the water flow over the top of the brim.
3. Women’s Essentials & Long-Hair Care
Surfing in Nicaragua means long hours in the blazing sun and heavy salt water. If you have long hair, the elements will absolutely fry it if you aren't proactive.
Redken Acidic Bonding Conditioner & Hair Mask
https://www.redken.com/hair-care/acidic-bonding-concentrate-conditioner-for-damaged-hair.html
Why we love it: Hours in the ocean will weather your hair and leave it feeling super dry and brittle. This acidic bonding mask is a total lifesaver. It actively strengthens and repairs your hair after being exposed to those harsh elements, ensuring your hair feels healthy instead of damaged by the end of the week.
Vital Pro-Tip: Don't wait until you get back to your room! Right after your session, rinse your hair with fresh water, apply the conditioner or mask generously, and throw it up in a bun. Let it sit and work its magic while you travel back, then wash it out when you take a real shower.
The Bottom Line
Dialing in your gear isn't just about looking good or avoiding a sunburn—it's about removing distractions so you can focus 100% on your surfing. When you don't have to worry about your board snapping in transit, your gear getting soaked, or the sun frying your energy, you catch more waves and progress faster. Period.
Got a piece of gear you never do a strike mission without? Let us know. And if you’re ready to put this packing list to the test, check out our upcoming Vital Mission on March 21-28, and let’s get you in the water!
