So we’ve answered the question of why do you wax a surfboard, and now you’re probably wondering how to do it. This guide serves as an invaluable resource for both newbies and more experienced riders alike.
Helping both groups grasp the basics of proper board waxing. So let’s dive right in and learn how to wax a surfboard!
Epoxy and PU-surfboards boast a hard, slippery texture that necessitates surf wax to grant us the necessary traction for stance. The tacky consistency of surf wax provides an adhesive grip which allows our feet to stick securely on the board’s surface.
Surfers often rely on traction pads at the tail of their surfboard to furnish extra grip for their back foot, and then wax up the rest of the board’s surface.
Clean Your Surfboard
To start, let’s spiff up that surfboard – even if it’s new. Removing any dust will make sure the wax sticks nicely and for this process. You won’t need much other than some glass cleaner spray and a soft cloth.
Choose The Right Type of Wax
Now, it’s time to pick the ideal wax type for our surfboard. With a wide selection of various waxes available, we have plenty of options. Additionally, let’s remember to apply two layers – an undercoat and finish coat – for maximum protection!
Establishing a solid foundation is essential for anything you do, and waxing your surfboard is no different. Invest in a robust basecoat wax that has more hardness than your topcoat to make sure it provides the perfect basis for adherence.
This one-time application should hold up well if you re-apply its protective layer with a new topcoat when necessary.
Choosing the perfect wax for your next surfing adventure is as easy as knowing the temperature of the water! As a general rule, when it’s colder out you should apply harder surf wax to ensure better grip and stability on each swell. To make matters easier, use our handy selection tool below to quickly discover which type of topcoat wax best suits your local waves!
How to Wax a Surfboard
To conclude, we must apply the surf wax. Follow the five steps below to get the job done right
- Use a gentle touch when applying your base coat of wax by ensuring that the layer is applied lightly and evenly. Keep in mind to never press firmly or harshly on the surface.
- Begin at the base of your surfboard, usually just above where you placed the tail pad. Using a bar of top coat wax, form an angled line from rail to stringer that goes upwards at a 45-degree angle. Repeat this motion all along one end before moving onto the other side and repeating it again.
- After finishing, repeat the steps to create a second set of lines running from your rail downwards at an angle of 45 degrees. This will form a criss-cross grid pattern with the first set you created previously.
- Making sure to apply wax with a light touch is essential. If you’re an avid surfer, your board will receive its fair share of waxing and thus needs no extra-hasty application.
- After the grid pattern has been established, use your board wax and create small circles within it. These will form bumps on which to ride, allowing you to be ready for action!
Surfboard Waxing Tips
Below are some useful tips on how to wax a surfboard properly.
Don’t Press Too Hard
To ensure that you apply your surf wax correctly, it’s critical to use proper pressure. Applying too much force can lead to excess product, while using too little prevents the creation of a sturdy foundation. Medium pressure is what we suggest when applying wax on your board for optimal results!
Create Bumps on the Wax
Following the application of your topcoat layer, there ought to be adequate raised bumps on your board. If these are not apparent, it is likely that you have incorrectly applied the surf wax.
Apply the Optimal Amount
Knowing the correct amount of surf wax to apply is crucial as overusing it can make your board even more slick and slippery!
To make sure that you have enough wax for your surfboard, use this helpful rule of thumb:
- Half a bar should suffice for shortboards less than 7 feet.
- A three-quarter-sized bar is all you need for mid-length boards between 7 and 9 feet in length.
- And if you’ve got a longboard more than 9 foot, then be sure to pick up an entire surf wax bar!
Only Apply Wax where it’s Needed
Waxing your surfboard is an easy process – just target the area where your feet will be! There’s no need to wax the top portion of the board in its entirety.
Even though the tail is waxed on a longboard when changing surf stance, waxing up to the nose can be necessary. The same applies for shortboards should you intend to execute aerial maneuvers. The necessity of having a sticky landing increases significantly!
Frequency of Application
To ensure optimal performance, it is recommended that you scrape off all leftover surf wax from your board on a regular basis. Typically, this should be done every two to three months in order to maintain the best grip for surfing.
Additionally, before each session you should apply a thin top coat of fresh wax so that your board remains at peak traction levels. By following these steps and paying attention to how the board feels underfoot, you can guarantee an enjoyable experience out in the waves!
Be aware of temperature changes
We’re aware that the water temperature alters the performance of surf wax. So be sure to adjust your topcoat when it changes. This will help you get maximum grip on those waves!
No need to Wax a Foam Surfboard
Foam surfboards provide a soft top surface, therefore eliminating the need for wax. Despite this, some riders opt to add a thin layer of topcoat as they feel it provides increased grip and familiarizes them with their board.
