How to choose, apply, and maintain your surf wax

Budget Surfing Tip

“Good wax is like good tires on a car: you don’t think about it when everything is going well, but it makes all the difference.”

1. What is wax (or paraffin)?

Wax is the non-slip coating you apply to your board to keep from slipping.
Without wax, your surf would be as smooth as a skateboard on tiles.

It allows you to:

• Have grip for your feet or hands during take-off,
  
  

• Control your stance,
  
  

• And avoid unnecessary falls.

2. Different types of wax

Each wax is designed for a specific water temperature.
If you use wax that's too hard in warm water, it won't stick.
And if you use wax that's too soft in cold water, it will melt!

Always check the water temperature before buying your wax.

3. Basecoat vs Topcoat

Wax is often applied in two layers:

1. Basecoat
   
   

• Hard wax that creates the structure,
  
  

• Helps the topcoat adhere,
  
  

• Applied only once initially.
  
  

2. Topcoat
   
   

• Softer wax adapted to water temperature,
  
  

• Renewed regularly.
  
  

Remember to buy both if your board is new or completely cleaned.

4. How to apply wax (step-by-step)

Step 1: Clean the board

• Make sure your board is dry and clean.
  
  

• Remove old wax with a wax comb or a soft cloth.
  
  

• If necessary, leave it slightly in the sun for 2-3 minutes to soften the wax.
  
  

Step 2: Apply the Basecoat

• Apply the wax diagonally across the board, forming a grid pattern.
  
  

• Rub gently to create small, regular bumps.
  
  

• Cover the areas where you place your feet (no need on the entire nose).
  
  

The goal is not to apply a ton, but to create grip.

Step 3: Add the Topcoat

• Choose the wax suitable for the day's temperature.
  
  

• Apply it in the same direction as the basecoat grid.
  
  

• Rub until the bumps become sticky to the touch.
  
  

Your wax should feel slightly “grippy” under your hand.

5. Maintenance and renewal

To maintain:

1. Use a wax comb before each session to “refresh” the surface.
   
   

2. Completely remove old wax every 2 to 3 weeks.
   
   

3. Rinse your board with fresh water after each session (without rubbing the wax).
   
   

The cleaner and better maintained your wax, the better your grip.

6. Ecology and alternatives

Some classic waxes contain petroleum-based paraffin.
But today there are eco-friendly and biodegradable waxes, based on:

• Beeswax
  
  

• Coconut oil
  
  

• Natural resin
  
  

7. Pro tips

• Always store your wax in a closed box (not in the car in direct sunlight).
  
  

• Always carry spare wax in your surfboard bag.
  
  

• Never use a friend's wax without asking.
  
  

• Clean your board before traveling: customs officials don't like sticky wax in board bags.