Comprehensive Guide to Surfboard Wax: What Boards Need It and Why

Surfboard wax is an essential part of surfing, providing the grip needed to maintain control on your board. However, not all surfboards are the same, and the type of board you ride can determine how you should wax it—or if it even needs wax at all. This guide will break down the different types of surfboards, their materials, and how (or if) surf wax applies to them.

What Is Surfboard Wax and Why Is It Important?

Surfboard wax is a specially formulated product applied to the deck (top) of a surfboard to create traction. Without wax, the surface of most boards is too smooth, making it almost impossible to stay balanced when paddling, popping up, or riding a wave.

Key functions of surfboard wax include:

1. Traction: Prevents slipping.

2. Comfort: Adds cushioning.

3. Customization: Allows surfers to adjust grip zones.

Types of Surfboards and Their Waxing Needs

1. Fiberglass Surfboards

• Material: Traditional fiberglass surfboards are made from polyurethane foam coated with fiberglass cloth and resin.

• Wax Needed: Yes

• Why: Fiberglass surfboards have smooth, hard surfaces that require wax to create traction. These boards are the most common type of surfboard and are virtually always waxed before use.

Waxing Tips for Fiberglass Boards

• Use a basecoat layer to create bumps, followed by a temperature-specific surfboard wax for your local conditions.

• Regularly scrape off old surfboard wax to prevent buildup.

2. Epoxy Surfboards

• Material: Made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam coated with epoxy resin.

• Wax Needed: Yes

• Why: Like fiberglass boards, epoxy surfboards have a smooth surface that requires wax for traction. However, they are slightly lighter and more buoyant, which may make grip even more critical.

Waxing Tips for Epoxy Boards

• Use a soft or cool-temperature surfboard wax to avoid scratching the epoxy finish.

• Apply wax in circular motions to create an even texture.

3. Soft-Top Surfboards

• Material: Feature a soft, spongy deck made from foam or other soft materials.

• Wax Needed: Sometimes

• Why: Many soft-top boards have built-in traction due to their textured surface. However, some surfers prefer adding wax for extra grip, especially in high-performance situations.

Waxing Tips for Soft-Top Boards

• Use a softer wax to avoid damaging the foam.

• Focus on areas where your feet will land, as these are often less textured.

• Check with the manufacturer’s recommendations—some soft tops are explicitly designed not to need wax.

4. Carbon Fiber Surfboards

• Material: Made with a carbon fiber exterior, often combined with other materials like epoxy resin.

• Wax Needed: Yes

• Why: Carbon fiber boards have slick surfaces similar to fiberglass and epoxy boards, making wax essential for traction.

Waxing Tips for Carbon Fiber Boards

• Be gentle during application to avoid scratching the finish.

• Regularly check for wax buildup, as carbon fiber boards often show residue more prominently.

5. Wooden Surfboards

• Material: Crafted from wood, often with a protective resin coating.

• Wax Needed: Yes

• Why: Most wooden boards have a smooth finish that requires wax for grip. However, some boards have textured finishes that reduce the need for wax.

Waxing Tips for Wooden Boards

• Avoid over-waxing, as wax residue can build up and diminish the natural beauty of the wood.

• Use a warm-temperature surfboard wax for tropical climates to prevent melting onto the surface.

6. Hybrid Surfboards

• Material: Combine elements of different board types, such as fiberglass with soft-top decks.

• Wax Needed: Depends on Deck Material

• Why: If the deck is smooth, wax is necessary. If it’s textured or padded, waxing may not be needed.

Waxing Tips for Hybrid Boards

• Assess the deck material before applying wax.

• Use wax sparingly on textured or padded areas to avoid unnecessary buildup.

7. Skimboards

• Material: Often made of fiberglass or carbon fiber.

• Wax Needed: Yes

• Why: Skimboards are typically smaller and lack traction pads, making wax essential for grip.

Waxing Tips for Skimboards

• Use a sticky wax specifically designed for flat or smooth surfaces.

• Reapply wax frequently, as skimboards often encounter sand, which can strip wax quickly.

8. Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUPs)

• Material: Usually made from fiberglass, epoxy, or carbon fiber, often with padded decks.

• Wax Needed: Not Usually

• Why: Many SUPs come with built-in traction pads. However, if your SUP lacks a pad, wax can help create grip.

Waxing Tips for SUPs

• Apply wax only to areas where your feet will land.

• Opt for temperature-specific wax for water conditions.

Boards That Don’t Typically Require Wax

1. Boards with Full Traction Pads

• Many modern boards come with built-in traction pads that eliminate the need for surfboard wax.

2. Foam Bodyboards

• Bodyboards usually have a grippy texture and do not require wax.

Choosing the Right Wax for Your Board

Temperature Matters

Always select a wax based on your local water temperature:

• Cold: Below 58°F (15°C)

• Cool: 58–68°F (15–20°C)

• Warm: 64–74°F (18–23°C)

• Tropical: Above 75°F (24°C)

Basecoat vs. Topcoat

• Basecoat: Creates a durable foundation for the topcoat.

• Topcoat: Adds stickiness and enhances grip.

Pro Tips for Waxing Your Board

1. Prep Your Board: Ensure the board is clean and dry before applying wax.

2. Use the Right Technique: Apply in small, circular motions to build up texture.

3. Reapply as Needed: Re-wax high-use areas regularly for optimal grip.

4. Remove Old Wax: Use a wax comb or scraper to clean your board and start fresh every few sessions.

Final Thoughts

Surf wax is more than just a necessity—it’s a ritual that connects surfers with their boards. Whether you ride a fiberglass shortboard, a soft-top cruiser, or a sleek carbon fiber model, understanding how and when to use wax will elevate your surfing experience.

Choosing the right wax for your board and water conditions is essential for performance and safety. Next time you head to the waves, take a moment to appreciate the role of surf wax—it’s a small detail that makes a big difference!

Wax on, paddle out, and ride the waves with confidence.

Choose between various forms of waxes here!

Find out all about surfboards with this active Reddit Community!