How to Wax a Surfboard

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Those just starting out surfing wonder why they see so many bars of wax available in surf shops. These little amenities have become an essential part of the surfing experience. With the competitive nature and different surfing styles, waxing your surfboard has become even more significant. We can explain a little about why you need to wax – and how you can do it.

Why Do I Need To Wax a Surfboard?

Surfboard wax acts as the glue between your feet and the board. Waxing the board well can stop surfers from slipping and falling when powerful waves push your ride into patches of turbulence. Professionals use it to gain aerial advantages and allow them to move freer without falling off their board.

Today, there are a variety of waxes available to meet specific needs. Some of the factors considered when choosing a wax bar include the water temperature, the smell of the substance, or the surfboard’s material. In general, all considerations lead to the wax not coming off your board and making sure you keep your balance.

Techniques to Waxing a Surfboard

The technique to ensuring you get a perfectly waxed surfboard is laying down a base coat of the material. This should be loosely applied all over the board – then you move into waxing the footing zones. Wherever you usually stand on the surfboard should have more application of the wax.

There’s no official method to applying the wax – just in any way that feels comfortable to you. Skilled surfers usually wax their boards with specific movements – crisscrossing, vertical or horizontal motions, and circular ones. One important rule to remember is to never apply new wax over old. Also, if your board is dirty and sandy, the grip won’t be as effective then.

Steps to Waxing the Surfboard

Surfers will share the many methods they use to wax their boards. Some will say their way is best, while others will show another way to do it. Again, there is no waxing application that’s set in stone. You just need to make sure that all the essential areas are covered. Most methods are similar in the steps outlined below:

Remove all existing surfboard wax with a wax comb
Clean the surfboard with a wax remover, and make the surface glossy
Apply the base coat all over the surfboard until the material is noticeable
Rub in another layer of wax in the areas you most stand on the board

Surfboard wax can be found at nearly every surf shop and sports store that has aquatic goods. Should you have any specific requirements or questions about what you are buying, help will be there. Ask anyone at the shop or any local surfer – they will be more than happy to help. Otherwise, get waxed up and ride the waves to your heart’s content.

How to Choose a Surfboard Leash

A surfboard leash is essential when out catching waves. It’s worn so you don’t have to chase after your surfboard, and it was also made for your, and other’s, safety.

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