Why Surfboards need Wax?

February 20, 2025

Surf wax is one of the most essential surf accessories—without it, you’d be slipping and sliding all over your board! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, applying surf wax properly can improve your balance, stability, and overall control while paddling, popping up, and carving waves.

We know how important a solid wax job is for optimizing your ride. This guide will walk you through choosing the best surf wax, applying it correctly, and maintaining it for peak performance.

Why Surfboard Wax is Essential

Surf wax creates a non-slip surface, allowing surfers to stay on their boards even in powerful waves. Here’s why waxing is crucial:

Better Grip – Keeps your feet from slipping off.
Enhanced Balance & Control – Helps maintain stability during turns.
Improved Paddle Power – Prevents slipping while lying on the board.
Safer Surfing – Reduces wipeouts and injuries.

Without wax, fiberglass and epoxy boards would be far too slick, making it almost impossible to surf effectively.

Types of Surfboard Wax

Basecoat Wax

Base coat wax is a hard, durable layer that helps topcoat wax adhere to your board. It provides long-lasting grip and helps create a textured foundation for the softer topcoat.

Topcoat Wax (Temperature-Based)

Your topcoat wax should match the water temperature to ensure proper traction:

Cold Water Wax (Below 60°F) – Softest formula for maximum grip.
Cool Water Wax (58°F – 68°F) – Medium-soft wax, ideal for fall and spring.
Warm Water Wax (64°F – 74°F) – Harder formula to prevent melting in moderate temps.
Tropical Water Wax (75°F+) – Hardest wax, designed for extreme heat and warm waters.

Best Surfboard Wax Brands

At Spunky’s Surf Shop, we stock some of the top-rated surf wax brands, trusted by pros and everyday surfers alike:

How to Wax a Surfboard: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare Your Surfboard

Find a shaded, flat surface to work on.
Clean your board – Remove any sand, dirt, or old wax.
Inspect for dings – Repair any damage before applying wax.

Step 2: Remove Old Wax (If Necessary)

Use a wax comb to scrape off old wax.
Warm up the board by leaving it in the sun for 5 minutes or using a hairdryer.
Wipe it down with a cloth or paper towel.

Step 3: Apply Basecoat Wax

Wax only needs to be applied to the top of the surfboard! It's not like snow skis or snowboards where you apply it to the bottom. In surfing you only apply the wax where your feet and body touch the board.

Basecoat wax is harder and requires elbow grease to apply properly. Choose one of these techniques:

Circular Motion: Rub wax in small overlapping circles.
Diagonal Criss-Cross: Apply diagonal strokes in one direction, then the opposite, forming a grid pattern.

Pro Tip: Avoid waxing rails, the bottom of the board, or traction pads—only apply wax where your feet and hands make contact.

Step 4: Add Topcoat Wax

Once the basecoat is set, apply the topcoat using circular motions. This layer should create raised bumps for extra traction. Pay extra attention to the areas where your feet will be positioned when surfing.

Step 5: Maintain Your Wax Job

Before each session, lightly reapply topcoat wax for fresh traction.
If wax starts to look flat, use a wax comb to roughen up the surface.
Store your board in a cool place to prevent wax from melting.
Fully rewax your board every few months to keep it in peak condition.

Choosing the Right Wax for Your Surfing Conditions

Not sure which wax to use? Check out this quick reference guide:

Coldwater Surfing: Soft wax for max grip.
Tropical Surfing: Hard wax to withstand heat.
Eco-Friendly Options: Reduce ocean pollution with organic wax.
Heavy Performance: Use extra topcoat layers for aggressive maneuvers.

Traction Pads: An Alternative to Wax

If you want extra grip without constant re-waxing, consider using traction pads. These adhesive pads:

Prevent feet from slipping off the tail.
Help with foot placement and stability.
Work best for shortboards and high-performance boards.

At Spunky’s Surf Shop, we stock high-quality traction pads for surfers looking for a wax-free alternative.

How to Remove Surf Wax from Clothes

Accidentally got wax on your wetsuit or clothes? Here’s how to remove it:

Freeze the item, then scrape off hardened wax.
Use an iron with paper towels to absorb residue.
Soak in stain remover before washing normally.

Find the Best at Spunky’s Surf Shop!

At Spunky’s Surf Shop, we’re dedicated to helping surfers get the best ride possible. Whether you need high-performance surf wax, board consultations, or expert advice, we’ve got you covered.

🔹 Visit our shop or browse our online store for the best selection of surf wax and accessories! 🏄‍♂️🌊