How to Install and Use Traction Pads for Surfing | Surfboard Grip Tips

Understanding Traction Pads

Traction pads are an essential accessory for many surfers. These rubbery pads stick to the top deck of your surfboard and provide grip for your feet while riding waves. Traction pads allow you to control your board better and perform maneuvers like turning and carving. Without a good pad, your feet are likely to slip off the board easily. Let's take a look at what traction pads are, why they're useful, and how to properly install one on your surfboard.

The Benefits of Using a Traction Pad

Traction pads provide the following advantages:

• Better grip and control - The textured surface of the pad gives your feet something to grip onto. This allows for better board control.
• Prevents slipping - The pad minimizes slipping, making it less likely that your feet will slide off the board.
• Absorbs impact - The pad's cushioning can absorb some of the impact when landing aerial maneuvers.
• Defines the sweet spot - The pad shows you where to place your feet for optimum positioning and balance.
• Protects deck - A pad protects the deck of your board from getting overly damaged from traction wax or your feet.

With better grip, you'll have more control and stability when surfing. You'll be able to carve sharper turns without your feet giving way. And you'll have the confidence to try more advanced maneuvers knowing your feet are securely planted.

Types of Traction Pads

There are a few common types of traction pads:

• Full Deck Grip Pads - Full deck pads cover a large portion of the board's deck. This provides grip for your back foot and front foot.
• Tail Pads - Tail pads are smaller pads that stick to the tail end of your surfboard. They are designed just for your back foot.
• Arch Pads - Arch pads are narrow pads that stick along the arch curve on the deck. They help secure only your back foot arch area.
• Wax Combo Pads - These combine a traction pad with embedded surf wax to provide even better traction.

Full deck pads are the most common choice for surfboards. Tail pads and arch pads are best for longboards that you only ride from the very back. Wax combo pads provide the best grip, but the wax can be messier over time.

How to Install a Traction Pad

Putting a traction pad on your surfboard is a quick and easy process. Here are the basic steps:

1. Choose Your Ideal Pad

First, select a traction pad that suits your board type and budget. For a shortboard, a full deck grip pad around 10-12 inches long is common. Consider a tail pad for longboards. Popular brands like FCS and Dakine make quality pads.

2. Clean and Dry the Board

Use a surfboard cleaner to thoroughly clean the board's deck. This removes any dirt, wax residue and oils that could impede adhesion. Let the board dry completely before pad installation.

3. Determine Pad Placement

Decide where exactly you want the pad positioned. For a full deck grip pad, align the middle of the pad to the middle of the deck, a few inches back from the highest point. On a longboard, place a tail pad near the tail's apex.

4. Remove the Backing

Once aligned, slowly peel away the backing on the adhesive side of the traction pad. Try not to touch the exposed sticky surface.

5. Apply the Pad

Carefully lower the traction pad into position on the board deck. Starting from one end, firmly press down on the pad to adhere it. Smooth out any air bubbles or creases using a plastic card like a credit card.

6. Let It Cure

Leave the board to cure for at least 24 hours before taking it in water. This ensures maximum adhesive strength. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight during the curing period.

It's that easy! Be sure to keep your new traction pad clean of dirt and wax buildup to help it last longer. Replacing pads annually or when they appear worn is a good idea.

Tips for Putting On a Traction Pad

Follow these tips to ensure a smooth, successful traction pad installation:

• Stick to reputable pad brands that use quality adhesive and materials.
• Thoroughly clean and dry the board deck first for best adhesion.
• Apply the pad in a warm indoor setting without dust or wind.
• Once positioned, rub the pad vigorously to maximize bond strength.
• Use a plastic card to smooth out bubbles and creases.
• Add a dab of clear silicone to pad ends to prevent lifting.
• Allow adequate curing time before surfing on it.
• Consider lightly sanding the deck first to improve grip.

Avoid inexpensive generic pads that may not stick well or last. Take your time cleaning and smoothing the pad during application. And make sure to refrain from surfing on the new pad before it has time to properly cure.

Common Traction Pad Problems

While traction pads are fairly straightforward, a few issues can come up. Here are some potential problems and solutions:

The Pad Won't Stick

If the pad won't properly adhere, the surface may not be clean and dry enough. Remove the pad, thoroughly clean the area with a surfboard cleaner, let it dry completely, and reapply. Ensure your board is waxed either.

The Pad Starts Peeling Off

Traction pads can peel over time from use, sun exposure, or age. To reattach, lightly sand the area, clean it, and firmly press the pad back down after applying adhesive promoter. Replace if the peeling persists.

There Are Air Bubbles

Air bubbles under the pad can be smoothed out during application with a plastic card. Use a pin to pop large stubborn bubbles and rub the pad down hard. Small bubbles are generally just a cosmetic issue.

The Pad Is Sliding Around

Make sure to allow adequate curing time for the adhesive to fully bond before surfing. If a new pad still slides, try lightly sanding the deck area first next time to improve grip. Adding silicone dots under pad corners can help as well.

There's Excess Adhesive

Any adhesive oozing out around pad edges can be carefully scraped off with a plastic card or knife once cured. Minimize this by smoothing the pad thoroughly during application and not using excess adhesive promoter.

Conclusion

Installing a traction pad is one of the easiest DIY surfboard upgrades you can make. Following the proper preparation and application steps results in a securely bonded pad that will provide better footing and control in the waves. Take care of your new pad, and replace it as needed when it appears overly worn. With practice, you'll get your pad placement and installation dialed in.