Why Do Surfers Wax Their Surfboards? [Reasons + FAQs]

Surfing is an activity that has been enjoyed for generations and is loved by countless people across the globe.

From beautiful turquoise waters to powerful waves, surfing offers a fun-filled experience for everyone who’s willing to give it a try – but there’s more to it than just hopping on your board and riding away.

In order to guarantee you a safe and successful time in the water, surfers must wax their boards before each session – but why? This guide will explain the purpose of waxing your surfboard, how best to do it and what types are available.

So regardless of whether you are new to the sport or you’re simply curious about why this is necessary, keep reading; we have all the details right here.

Quick Answer: Surfers wax their surfboards to create grip and traction between their bodies and the board. Wax helps surfers stay on their boards while paddling and riding waves, allowing them to perform better.

What is surfboard wax?

Surfboard wax is a must-have accessory for any surfer. It is a specially formulated wax that is applied to the surface of a surfboard to provide traction and prevent the surfer from slipping off.

The wax is stickier than regular waxes, allowing surfers to grip their boards securely for better control and balance. Surfboard wax comes in different styles and temperatures to suit various water conditions and surf styles.

It is typically made from a combination of natural and synthetic ingredients, including beeswax, paraffin wax, and petroleum jelly.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, having the right surfboard wax can make all the difference in your surfing experience.

Why Do Surfers Wax Their Surfboards?

Surfing is an amazing sport, but did you ever wonder why surfers apply wax to their boards?

The answer is simple. Wax provides traction, allowing surfers to stay on their boards instead of slipping off. Without wax, the smooth surface of the board can become extra slippery when wet.

This can pose a danger to surfers who might slip off and get hurt as they are gliding over the water.

Waxing your surfboard also helps surfers to control the board much better. When wax is applied carefully, it creates a more durable grip and improves the surfers’ ability to turn and adjust the board’s trajectory.

So it’s no wonder that surfboard wax has become a must-have surfing accessory.

Benefits of waxing a surfboard:

A surfboard’s performance highly depends on how well it has been maintained.

Over time, the wax layer on your board wears off, making it harder to keep the right balance and maintain stability while surfing.

Applying wax on your surfboard can significantly improve your surfing experience, making it smoother and more enjoyable.

Improved Grip:

Waxing your surfboard creates a non-slip surface that offers excellent grip on the board, making it easier to maintain balance when surfing.

A well-waxed surfboard also provides a better grip for your feet, allowing you to maneuver the board more easily, making the overall surfing experience more enjoyable.

Better Speed:

The wax layer on your surfboard can help improve your speed by reducing drag.

When water passes over a waxed surface, it encounters less resistance, which allows the rider to glide more smoothly and efficiently.

By waxing your board, you can catch more waves, cover more distance and ultimately have more fun in the water.

Extended Lifespan:

Surfboards are a significant investment for any surfer, and it’s essential to take good care of them to ensure they last as long as possible.

Waxing your surfboard is one way to keep it in good condition for an extended period.

The wax layer helps protect the board from scratches, dings, and other forms of damage that can shorten its lifespan.

Sun Protection:

High-quality surf wax comes with an added benefit of providing your surfboard with some protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

The sun’s rays can cause your board to yellow and damage the epoxy, making it more likely to develop cracks and breaks.

By waxing your board regularly, you can protect it from sun damage and extend its life.

Environmental Benefits:

Waxing your surfboard provides numerous environmental benefits.

Stone and sand removal from freshly waxed boards keep sea life from ingesting it.

Moreover, excessive deterioration in seawater also causes the water to deteriorate, so keeping your wax on your board is much safer for the environment.

How often should I wax my surfboard?

An essential part of keeping your surfboard in top condition is regularly waxing it. Wax it every 2-3 weeks, or after 5 to 10 sessions in the water for maximum grip and traction that will make sure you stay firmly planted on the deck while riding those waves.

When waxing your surfboard, start with a base coat of wax and then apply a top coat for extra grip. Use a wax comb to remove any excess wax and make sure to only apply the wax where it’s needed. If you’re unsure how much wax to use, start with a small amount and add more if necessary.

It’s also important to remember that different types of surfboards require different types of wax, so make sure you choose the right one for your board.

Do I need to wax my board every time I surf?

Maintaining your surfboard is an essential aspect of being a surfer, and one of the most important steps is waxing.

While some may argue that it’s not necessary to wax your board before every surf session, others find it crucial for optimal performance.

Waxing prevents riders from slipping off the board, as it creates traction and allows for better control on the waves. However, how often you wax your board will depend on several factors, such as the water temperature, your level of experience, and the type of wax you use.

It is recommended that you wax your board every few sessions to ensure it remains in excellent condition. Nonetheless, remember that waxing is an integral part of taking care of your board and enhancing your experience as a surfer.

Conclusion

Surfing is a favorite pastime of many ocean lovers and is both enjoyable and challenging.

Waxing a surfboard is an important part of the surfing experience because it helps to increase grip and traction on the board, make it easier to paddle, reduce drag, and keep your feet from sliding off.

It pays to wax your board regularly to make sure you get a quality ride every time you take it out for a spin.

And be sure to remember that there are different types of waxes for different water temperatures, so don’t forget to read up on those beforehand.

It’s an essential part of being a surfer so jump in, have fun and know that you’re making the most out of your time on the waves by investing in premium surf wax.

FAQs

Do surfers still wax their surfboards?

Yes, surfers still wax their boards to help increase grip and traction as it prevents them from sliding off the board. It also helps with control over the board, enabling them to maneuver and adjust their trajectory in the water.

How often should I wax my board?

It is recommended to wax your surfboard every 2-3 weeks, or after 5 to 10 sessions in the water for maximum grip and traction. Start with a base coat of wax and then apply a top coat for extra grip. Use a wax comb to remove any excess wax as needed.

Do I need to wax my board every time I surf?

While some may argue that it’s not necessary to wax your board before every surf session, others find it crucial for optimal performance. Waxing prevents riders from slipping off the board, as it creates traction and allows for better control on the waves.

Does the type of wax matter?

Yes, it does! Different types of surfboards require different types of wax, so make sure you choose the right one for your board. There are different types of waxes for different water temperatures, so be sure to read up on those beforehand.

Is it hard to surf without wax?

It can be, but it’s not impossible. Surfing without wax is possible but much more difficult as there won’t be any traction between your feet and the board. It may take some getting used to, but you should eventually get the hang of it.