So, you’ve got your brand-new surfboard—it's shiny, sleek, and ready to hit the waves. But before you paddle out, there’s one crucial step you can’t skip: waxing your board.
It might seem like a small detail, but waxing is essential for a successful surfing session.
Don't be like me, finding yourself with winds shifting offshore, in a rip, 1/2 mile offshore, slipping and sliding all over my shiny new board. Made it in, but swore to the almighty, I would not take a new shiny board out again ;)
Here’s why you need to wax up that cool new board and how to do it right.
1. Get a Grip: Why Waxing Matters
Surfboard wax isn’t just for show; it’s a vital tool that provides the grip you need to stay on your board. Without wax, the smooth surface of your board becomes a slippery slide, making it almost impossible to pop up and maintain your balance. Wax creates traction between your feet and the board, helping you stay in control as you ride the waves.
2. Waxing Basics: What You Need
Before you start waxing, make sure you’ve got the right materials.
You’ll need:
- Basecoat Wax: A harder wax that creates a foundation for the topcoat.
- Topcoat Wax: A softer wax that provides the stickiness you need.
- Wax Comb: A small, handy tool for creating grooves in the wax to enhance grip and to maintain your wax job over time.
3. How to Wax Your Board: Step by Step
Step 1: Start with a Clean Board Before applying wax, ensure your board is clean and dry. If you’re re-waxing, remove any old wax with the edge of your wax comb or a wax remover.
Step 2: Apply the Basecoat Begin by applying the basecoat wax. Use a criss-cross pattern to cover the area where your feet will be (usually the middle to the tail of the board). The goal is to build up a solid layer that will hold the softer topcoat wax.
Step 3: Add the Topcoat Once the basecoat is applied, it’s time for the topcoat. Apply the topcoat wax over the basecoat using circular patterns. The topcoat should feel sticky to the touch—this is what gives you the traction needed to stay on your board.
Step 4: Repeat the Topcoat - You are not done until there is a consistent pattern on spots across the entire board, more wax is better than less wax.
4. When to Re-Wax Waxing isn’t a one-time deal. Over time, your wax will lose its stickiness and need to be reapplied. You’ll know it’s time for a re-wax when your board starts to feel slippery or when the wax looks flat and smooth. Personally, try to apply Topcoat before leaving for the surf break or doing the surf check.
5. Wax and Temperature: Match It Up Not all wax is created equal. Surfboard wax comes in different formulas for different water temperatures—cold, cool, warm, and tropical. Make sure you’re using the right wax for the conditions you’re surfing in, as using the wrong type can affect your grip.
Don't Take Your Shiny New Board Out Surfing, Wax it Well First
Your new surfboard is awesome, but to make the most of it, you need to wax it up first. Proper waxing is essential for grip, control, and overall performance on the waves.
By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure your board is ready to go and that you’re set up for a great day of surfing.
So grab that wax, prep your board, and get ready to ride!
Be the Right Kind of Kook ;)
-Mahalo
Our Favorite Surf Wax -
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