What are the Different Types of Surfboard Wax?
Surfboard wax is a crucial component for surfing because it provides traction and grip on the surface of the board, allowing you to maintain control while riding waves. There are several types of wax, each designed for specific water temperatures and surf conditions.
An overview of the most common types:
Basecoat Wax: as the first layer applied to a clean surfboard deck, it serves as a foundation for additional layers, helping them adhere better to the board's surface. Typically harder and more durable, providing a solid base for building up traction.
Warm Water Wax: formulated for use in tropical or warmer water temperatures, typically above 70°F (21°C), it has a softer consistency allowing it to melt and provide good grip in warm conditions. Often sticky and tacky, providing excellent traction for your feet on the board.
Cool/Cold Water Wax: designed for use in colder water temperatures, usually below 60°F (15°C), it’s formulated to remain firm and provide traction even in chilly conditions where other waxes might harden or lose their grip. Typically harder and less sticky.
Tropical/Tropical Water Wax: specifically formulated for extremely warm water conditions, typically above 75°F (24°C). It’s softer and stickier than warm water wax and provides maximum grip in hot tropical climates where other waxes might become too soft or slippery.
Basecoat/Tropical Wax: you may prefer a combination of basecoat wax and tropical wax in warm water conditions. Apply a layer of basecoat wax as a foundation and then add a top layer of tropical wax for better grip and traction.
High Performance/Specialty Wax: some brands offer specialty waxes designed for specific surf conditions or preferences. These waxes claim to provide superior grip, longer-lasting traction, or other performance benefits tailored to advanced surfers or certain types of waves.
Grip & Traction: is the primary purpose. Different types of wax are formulated to offer optimal grip in various water temperatures and conditions.
Water Temperature Suitability: choosing the right type of wax for the water temp. ensures that the wax remains effective and provides adequate traction. Using the wrong type of wax can result in slipping or reduced grip, impacting performance and safety.
Durability: high-quality wax provides consistent traction throughout your surf sessions. It’s especially important if you spend extended periods in the water or frequently ride waves in challenging conditions.
Personal Preference: most surfers have personal preferences for the texture, stickiness, and feel of surfboard wax. Experimenting with different types and brands of wax allows you to find the one that best suits you.
Select the right type of wax for the water temperature and your surfing style, and you’ll find optimal grip and enjoyment no matter the surf conditions.
How Do I Apply Wax to a New Surfboard?
It’s a relatively straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you apply wax to your new surfboard effectively:
Clean your Surfboard: use a mild soap or surfboard cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge to clean the surface thoroughly. Rinse the board with fresh water and allow it to dry completely.
Choose the Right Wax: based on the water temperature and conditions you'll be surfing in. Refer to the wax packaging or consult with local surf shops to determine the best wax for your needs.
Apply Basecoat Wax (Optional): apply a thin, even layer to the entire deck of the surfboard using long, overlapping strokes to ensure complete coverage. Let the basecoat wax dry for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step.
Apply Topcoat Wax: hold the wax bar firmly in one hand and rub the wax onto the surfboard deck in a circular motion, using moderate pressure. Cover the entire deck with a thin layer of wax, working from the nose to the tail and from rail to rail.
Adjust Pressure & Technique: as you apply the wax, adjust the pressure and technique based on the desired level of grip. For areas where you need more traction, such as the front foot area, apply additional wax and use slightly more pressure. Use lighter pressure and smoother strokes in areas where less grip is needed, like the tail of the board.
Create Texture: after you apply the initial layer of wax, use the edge of the wax bar or your fingertips to create texture on the surface of the wax. Make diagonal or crosshatch patterns to increase traction and prevent slipping. This step is essentialfor enhancing grip and ensuring a secure footing while surfing.
Check for Consistency: make sure there are no areas with excess wax buildup or uneven patches. You may need to add more wax to areas that need additional traction or smooth out any rough spots.
Final Touches: use a wax comb or the edge of the wax bar to fine-tune the texture and remove any excess wax. Comb the wax in the direction of the rail to create uniform patterns and enhance grip.
Inspect & Adjust as Needed: before hitting the waves, check the waxed surface again. Make adjustments as needed to achieve the desired texture and consistency.
By following these steps, you can effectively apply wax to your new surfboard, providing the grip and traction needed for an enjoyable and safe surf session.
How often do I need to apply wax?
Reapply wax regularly, as it wears off over time with use and exposure to water. The frequency of wax application depends on several factors, including the type of wax, water temperature and surf conditions.
Here are some general guidelines to help you determine how often to apply wax to your surfboard:
Surfing Frequency: the more frequently you surf, the faster the wax will wear off your board. If you're a dedicated surfer who hits the waves several times a week, you'll likely need to apply wax every time.
Water Temperature: water temperature plays a significant role in how long wax lasts on your surfboard. In warmer water, wax tends to soften and wear off more quickly, requiring more frequent applications. Conversely, in colder water, wax may last longer and provide better traction over multiple sessions.
Surf Conditions: the type of surf conditions you encounter can also affect wax longevity. Surfing in rough or choppy water, where the board is constantly moving against the waves, can cause wax to wear off faster. Similarly, surfing on abrasive sand or reef breaks may shorten the lifespan of your wax compared to smoother surf spots.
Type of Wax: different types of surfboard wax have varying levels of durability and longevity. Some are formulated to last longer and maintain their grip through multiple surf sessions, while others may wear off more quickly. High-performance waxes may provide better traction but require more frequent reapplication.
Personal Preference: you may prefer to apply wax more frequently to ensure optimal grip and traction, or you may be comfortable surfing with less wax buildup.
Check the wax on your surfboard before each surf session. If it feels smooth or slippery to the touch, it's likely time to reapply. If you're slipping or losing traction in the water, fresh wax is needed.
Why scrape off old wax first?
A clean surface offers several benefits:
Improved Adhesion: applying wax to a clean surface ensures better adhesion and penetration of the new wax into the board's deck, allowing the wax to bond more effectively, providing better grip and traction.
Even Distribution: scraping off old wax helps create a smooth and uniform surface for applying the new coat of wax. Without removing old wax buildup, the new wax may clump or form uneven patches, resulting in inconsistent grip and performance.
Enhanced Performance: starting with a clean slate allows you to apply the appropriate amount and type of wax for the current surf conditions. It ensures that the wax is evenly distributed and optimally textured to provide the grip and traction needed for surfing.
Prevention of Wax Buildup: over time, layers of old wax can accumulate on the surfboard, leading to excessive buildup. By regularly scraping off old wax, you prevent the accumulation of excess wax and maintain the board's responsiveness and maneuverability.
How do I remove the old wax?
You can use a wax comb, plastic scraper, or specially designed wax removal tool. Gently scrape the wax off the board's deck in small circular motions, working from the nose to the tail and from rail to rail. Don’t apply too much pressure or damage the board's surface while scraping.
Once you've removed the old wax, apply a new coat following the steps outlined earlier.
What are the Top Brands in Surfboard Wax?
Sex Wax: one of the most iconic and widely recognized surf wax brands in the world was founded in the 1970s by surfers Zog and Hovie. They offer many formulas depending on water temperatures and are known for reliable grip and long-lasting performance.
Sticky Bumps: known for its high-quality formulas and good prices, they offer a wide range of wax options, including warm water, cool/cold water, and tropical blends, as well as basecoat and high-performance waxes. These waxes are favored by surfers for their excellent traction and durability.
Mr. Zog's: the parent company of Sex Wax, their surf wax lineup includes various temperature-specific formulas designed to provide optimal grip and performance in different conditions.
Matunas Organic Surf Wax: known for producing eco-friendly surf wax made from natural and organic ingredients, such as beeswax and tree resin, their waxes are biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals, making them a sustainable choice. You’ll find options for warm and cold water conditions.
Famous Surf: waxes are designed to meet the needs of surfers of all skill levels. Formulated for specific water temperatures and surf conditions, they provide excellent traction and grip.
Zap Wax: also offers options, including warm water, cool/cold water, and tropical blends. Their waxes are known for superior grip and durability, making them popular worldwide.
Mrs. Palmers: surf wax is tailored to various water temperatures and conditions, and formulated to provide maximum grip and traction, enhancing your performance and control on the waves.
When choosing a surf wax, consider water temperature, surf conditions, durability, along with your personal preference to find the best option.
Why not have a variety on hand?
