Why You Should Wax Your Surfboard

If you’re a surfer, then you know how important it is to give your surfboard the best care possible. After all, your surfboard is your most important piece of equipment. Knowing how to properly care for a surfboard can be challenging. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss the different ways you can maintain your surfboard and keep it looking great for years to come.

We’ll talk about the best materials for a surfboard, the different cleaning methods, and the most important maintenance tips to keep in mind. After reading this post, you’ll know how to keep your surfboard in peak condition so you can get the most out of your time on the waves.

Cleaning Your Surfboard

Rinse off any dirt, sand, or other debris before using a surfboard so it doesn’t affect your ride. This helps protect against scratches, dings, and other damage that could occur while in use. Starting with a clean board also helps with protecting the wax, as putting wax over dirt can cause the wax to peel off prematurely.

You should get in the habit of rinsing your board off after each use. This is especially important if you enjoy surfing near coral reefs where organisms can easily attach themselves to the underside of your board.

Surfboard Maintenance and Storage

Waxing

When maintaining a surfboard, waxing is an important part, as it helps protect against UV rays, speeds up drying time after each use, and increases traction for better gripping during rides. You should always use waterproof wax that is made specifically for surfboards. Car wax contains petroleum distillates that are not suitable for sports equipment.

Repairing Damage

Damage such as deep dings should be repaired immediately by a professional according to manufacturer instructions. Damage that goes unchecked may lead to further deterioration down the line due to water seeping into these areas.

Tuning and Adjusting

Tuning and adjusting refer to any adjustments needed, like fin placement. Again, it’s important to follow manufacturer instructions when doing this. Improper adjustments could lead to an unsafe ride with potentially dangerous results.

Maintaining Temperature

Unsurprisingly, temperature plays an important role in preserving your surfboard during storage. The exact temperature for storage will depend on your climate. Aim for a temperature that prevents mold growth and warping, as both of these can damage your board.

Avoiding Moisture

Moisture causes rot over time, so make sure all contact points between your board and the storage location stay dry. This could mean storing your board indoors or off the ground, especially during rainy seasons. Under no circumstances should your surfboard ever be stored near direct sources of heat like radiators, because this can cause the board to dry out.

Storing Safely

Finally, make sure boards are stored correctly so that they don’t become damaged due to sharp edges nearby. Soft fins should always face outward, and duct tape works great for protecting rails during transport. Layering bags helps reduce contact between individual boards, which can cause scratches over time.

Conclusion

Keeping your surfboard in proper condition takes some effort, but it is well worth it. With the right materials, techniques, maintenance, and storage, you can keep your surfboard in peak condition and extend its life. Taking the time to properly care for your board will ensure that you are safe and able to get the most out of your time on the waves for years to come. Now that you’ve read this comprehensive guide to taking care of your surfboard, you’re ready to hit the waves with confidence. So go ahead and enjoy your surfboard, knowing that it’s been well taken care of.