Keeping your surfboard properly waxed is one of those essential skills every surfer needs to master. Whether you’re stepping into the lineup for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro, a well-waxed board makes all the difference out there. Here’s everything you need to know about getting that perfect grippy surface for your next session.
What you’ll need
Before you start, gather your supplies: base coat wax, top coat wax (matched to your local water temperature), a wax comb, wax remover or scraper, and a clean cloth. Some surfers swear by coconut oil for removing old wax, but that’s optional.
You might be tempted to skip some of these items, especially if you’re just doing a quick touch-up. But having everything on hand will make the whole process smoother and give you better results in the long run.
What you need to know about surf wax
Not all surf wax is created equal. You’ll need two types for a proper wax job: base coat and top coat.
A base coat is the harder of the two, creating a foundation that helps your top coat stick better and last longer. Think of it as a primer for your surfboard. It’s not particularly grippy on its own, but it’s essential for longevity.
Top coat wax comes specifically designed for different water temperatures, from tropical to ice-cold. The goal is to match your wax to the local conditions. Use a wax that’s too soft and you’ll end up with a mess; too hard and you won’t get any grip at all.
Removing old wax
If you’re working with a used board, start by stripping off the old wax. Leave your board in the sun for about 10 to 15 minutes to soften things up, then use your wax comb’s straight edge to scrape off as much as possible.
A bit of coconut oil or commercial wax remover on a cloth helps get rid of any stubborn residue. Finish with a quick warm water wipe-down and make sure the board is completely dry before moving on.
The base coat
Find a shaded spot to work, as direct sunlight will make your wax too soft to work with properly. Starting about six inches from the nose, apply your base coat in small, circular motions. Work your way down toward the sweet spot (where your feet typically land), then continue until you’re about six inches from the tail.
Light, consistent pressure is what you want to aim for. You’ll know you’re doing it right when you start seeing small bumps, called “beads,” forming on the surface.
Adding the top coat
Adding the top coat is where the magic happens. Using your temperature-appropriate top coat, follow the same pattern as your base coat but with slightly more pressure. Build up texture, those bumps and ridges that’ll keep you from sliding off your board. Pay extra attention to the areas where your feet typically land, but try to maintain an even coverage across the whole surface.
Most surfers develop their own rhythm and technique with the top coat over time. Some prefer quick, tight circles while others swear by longer strokes—there’s no definitive right or wrong here. What matters is building up those all-important bumps that’ll give you traction when you need it most, whether you’re dropping into a steep wave or pulling into a quick turn.
Creating texture and maintenance
Once you’ve got your top coat on, use your wax comb to create a bit more texture. A simple crosshatch pattern works well. Just don’t go overboard. Running your hand across the surface should feel grippy but not sharp.
A good wax job needs regular maintenance. Before each session, give your board a quick once-over with the wax comb to rough up the surface. If things feel slick, add a thin layer of top coat. Keep your board out of direct sunlight when possible, and plan on a complete rewax every few months if you’re surfing regularly.
What to avoid when waxing your board
Waxing a surfboard isn’t exactly rocket science, but there are some common mistakes that can leave you with a slick board and a frustrating session. Even experienced surfers sometimes fall into these traps, especially when rushing through a quick wax job before hitting the water.
- Waxing in direct sunlight—the heat will make your wax too soft to work with
- Using hot water to remove old wax—it can damage your board’s finish
- Applying wax too close to the rails—it’ll just end up on your wetsuit
- Skipping the base coat—you’ll regret it when your top coat slides right off
- Using the wrong temperature wax— each range exists for a reason
- Going overboard with the wax comb—gentle cross-hatching is all you need
A good wax job is about patience and consistency. Take your time, work in a shaded area, and focus on building up an even layer of texture across your board. If you’re ever unsure about your technique, watch what the locals are doing or ask for tips at your nearest surf shop or surf lesson. Most surfers are happy to share their waxing wisdom.
The fine points
Experience teaches you a few things about waxing boards. Using too much wax is just as bad as using too little. Skipping the base coat might save you five minutes now, but you’ll regret it later when your wax job doesn’t last. And always, always make sure you’re using the right temperature wax for your conditions.
Keep your gear in good shape by storing your wax somewhere cool and keeping your wax comb handy for quick touch-ups. You’ll know it’s time for a fresh wax job when the surface starts feeling slick rather than grippy, or when you notice more smooth areas than texture.
Wax your surfboard and surf with us!
Wax on, wax off
A well-waxed board is as much about safety as it is performance. Take the time to do it right, and you’ll feel the difference in every wave you catch.And once your board is waxed and ready to go, book surfing lessons with Rapture Surfcamps. We’ve got locations all around the world from Bali to Portugal. No matter your skill level, there’s a class designed to give you the perfect ride.
