Collection: Wax

Board wax is an essential component for any surfer, providing the necessary grip to keep you securely on your board as you navigate the waves. Choosing the right wax and knowing how to use it properly can significantly enhance your surfing experience.

Types of Board Wax: There are several types of wax, each formulated for different water temperatures. It’s crucial to select the right wax to ensure it performs effectively:

  • Cold Water Wax: Soft and tacky, this wax is designed to work in water temperatures below 15°C (59°F).
  • Cool Water Wax: Slightly harder than cold water wax, it’s ideal for temperatures between 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F).
  • Warm Water Wax: Firmer to prevent melting, suitable for water temperatures from 19°C to 28°C (66°F to 82°F).
  • Tropical Water Wax: The hardest wax, made for water temperatures above 24°C (75°F), where softer waxes would melt.

When to Wax Your Board: Apply wax before each surf session to ensure your board remains grippy. It’s also wise to add a fresh layer if the wax feels slippery or if there's noticeable wear. For optimal performance, occasionally remove old wax from your board and reapply a fresh coat. This keeps the board clean and maintains good traction.

Applying the Wax:

  1. Clean the board: Start with a clean, dry surface. Remove old wax using a wax comb or by softening it in the sun and then scraping it off.
  2. Base coat: If starting from scratch, apply a base coat of harder wax. This layer doesn’t need to be perfect but should cover the areas where your feet will be.
  3. Top coat: Apply a softer wax (appropriate for your water temperature) over the base coat. Use circular motions to create a bump pattern that increases grip.
  4. Reapply as needed: Touch up areas that wear down from your feet or knees.

Using the correct type of wax and applying it properly will ensure that you stay secure on your board, regardless of the surf conditions. Regular maintenance of your board’s wax layer not only enhances your control and safety but also your overall surfing experience. For more tips on surfboard maintenance and accessories, feel free to reach out to our experts at Northshore.