What is the best traction for a Wood Paddle Board? The answer really depends on what your intended use is for the paddleboard. If you are SUP surfing then choose an EVA deck pad as grip will trump astectics. If you are paddling flat water you have 4 basic choices. The basic choices are wax, epoxy spray traction, or a traction pad, or traction stickers like the Hexatraction pictured above. 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.
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.
HexaTraction – is a surf wax alternative. Avoid the mess of wax with this translucent and minimally abrasive traction. HexaTraction features a thin and light structure so it will add minimal weight to your board. One kit contains eighteen 6″ Hexagons and four half-Hexagons. 1 kit is perfect for outfitting a shortboard or the nose of your Stand Up Paddleboard. 2 – 3 kits are recomended for covering the entire deck of longboards and SUP boards.
Ultra-light EVA foam – These deck grips are super soft on your feet and provide a ‘warm feel’ on your feet when paddling even on cold days. It also provides a cushion of foam between boards if stacking boards on top of each other without board bags
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.
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