How to Wax Your Surfboard
Waxing your board properly is key to having good gripe. Take your time and start with base coat or other surf wax rubbing lightly. Once you have a wax film over the surface you can change from base coat to wax or just wax the whole time and will increase pressure until you start to create small bumps of raised surf wax on the deck. Then you can increase pressure as you wax on wax off Karate Kid style in circular motion. In a few minutes you will have the perfect waxed surfboard. Pics and video to follow.
Thanks again, Matt at https://malibulongboards.com LA, CA surf SUP lessons and rentals.
The Evolution and History of Surf Wax: Enhancing Grip and Performance on the Waves
Surf wax, a crucial accessory for surfers, plays a vital role in providing traction and grip on the surfboard's surface. The history of surf wax is closely intertwined with the evolution of surfboards and the pursuit of improved performance in wave riding. In this article, we will explore the fascinating evolution and history of surf wax, from its early origins to the modern formulations used by surfers worldwide.
1. Early Origins:
In the early days of surfing, surfers faced a significant challenge—maintaining grip and traction on the surface of their wooden surfboards. To address this issue, surfers began experimenting with various materials to enhance traction. In the 1930s, surfers in California started using a mixture of paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct, and coconut oil to create a sticky substance that would provide grip on their boards.
2. The Introduction of Sticky Wax:
As surfing gained popularity and the demand for better traction grew, the first commercially produced surf wax hit the market. Sticky Bumps, founded by John Dahl in the early 1970s, was one of the pioneering brands that introduced a specialized wax designed specifically for surfing. This wax was formulated using a blend of paraffin, beeswax, and other additives to enhance stickiness and grip.
3. Advances in Wax Formulations:
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, advancements in surf wax formulations led to the introduction of new and improved products. One significant development was the use of synthetic materials, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, which increased the stickiness and durability of surf wax. These synthetic additives allowed surfers to maintain traction for longer periods, even in warmer water conditions.
4. Temperature-Specific Waxes:
Surfers soon realized that different water temperatures affected the performance of surf wax. Cold water made the wax hard and less sticky, while warm water caused it to melt and lose its grip. In response to this issue, temperature-specific waxes were introduced. Brands like Mr. Zog's Sex Wax and Sticky Bumps began producing variations of their waxes to cater to different water temperatures, ensuring optimal grip and performance for surfers.
5. Tropical Waxes and Base Coats:
Surfers who frequented tropical regions faced the challenge of extremely warm water, which caused conventional surf wax to melt quickly. To address this issue, tropical waxes were formulated with higher melting points and extra sticky properties. These waxes provided surfers with better grip in warm water conditions. Additionally, base coats, or base waxes, were introduced as an underlayer to enhance the longevity and effectiveness of surf wax in warm water.
6. Eco-Friendly Alternatives:
In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the environmental impact of surf wax, particularly the petroleum-based ingredients used in its production. This has led to the development of eco-friendly alternatives. Companies such as Matunas and Greenfix have pioneered the use of natural and biodegradable ingredients like beeswax and tree resin in their surf waxes, offering environmentally conscious options for surfers.
7. Specialized Waxes and Additives:
Beyond temperature-specific waxes, surfers now have access to a wide range of specialized waxes and additives. High-performance waxes are formulated for professional and competitive surfers, providing maximum grip and durability. Additionally, surfers can customize their wax by adding traction pads, textured waxes, or additives like coconut oil for a personalized grip.
Surf wax has come a long way since its humble beginnings, evolving from simple homemade mixtures to technologically advanced formulations. The continuous improvement in surf wax has revolutionized the surfing experience, allowing surfers to push their limits
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