Abstract: An apparatus for body surfing and method of making the same are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a garment for covering at least a portion of the torso of the user during use and a rigid outer shell securely attached to a torso portion of an outer surface of the garment. The outer shell is located adjacent the torso of the user during use thereof for providing hydro-dynamic lift for the user while traveling with the forward motion of a wave. The apparatus preferably includes an inner unit locatable adjacent an inner surface of the garment. The inner unit is located between the garment and at least a portion of the user's torso during use. The inner unit provides increased protection for the user and added lift during use.