Personal Flotation Device A PFD is useful, even when club rules or state laws do not require it. The PFD will float you in a more vertical position, which is helpful when waterstarting. Also, it provides insulation to will keep you warmer and body armor to protect you when you slam into your board. And most important, it will float you, should you get separated from your rig. The PFD should fit snugly.
Some people prefer to wear neoprene 'booties' when they sail, and others prefer to sail barefoot.
You can tell the latter because of the number of abrasions, lacerations, and plain old stubbed toes that they have. If your hands get sore, you might try a pair of sailing gloves. Don't forget sun protection. The only product that we have found that stays on with repeated dunking is called Bull Frog . It is more expensive than the usual product, it has the delightful consistency of axle grease, but it really works - even in the surf of Hawaii.