What is the best traction for a Wood Paddle Board? The answer really depends on what your intended use is for the paddleboard. The three basic choices are wax, epoxy spray traction, or a traction pad. Sliver Paddleboards uses the first two options and we have had good results with both. Because the shop boards are sometimes used for photographs we use surf wax on our boards. If you are unsure of what you want, start with wax and work your way down this list of progressively more permanent options.
Surf Wax – Easy to apply, easy to remove. This is what Sliver Uses on shop boards. It is messy but it provides good traction and allows us to remove it easily when it gets dirty. Simply scrape the wax off and then rub the residue with white flour. If you really need the board clean, denatured alcohol or a citrus wax remover will leave the board like new for a different option.
Monster Paint Spray on Traction – This stuff works quite well, looks great, and is easy to reapply when needed. Mask off where you don’t want it to stick. After using, be sure to hold can upside down and spray until there is no visible discharge. Continue to hold for a second more or the can will plug.
- Monster Spray Traction provides excellent long lasting (3-6 months) grip on SUPs, surfboards, sailboards, skimboards and almost any wetted surface!
- Overnight cure time
- Easy to Apply
Tip: After using, be sure to hold can upside down and spray until there is no visible discharge. Continue to hold for a second more or the can will plug.
Natural Cork – I haven’t tried this option myself as it covers the beautiful wood board but I like the idea. The hardest part of applying cork would be cutting the shape out. You could use the template and a razor knife. I plan to order a drag-knife for the CNC machine so I can perfectly trim the shape to match the board’s outline.
