How to Apply a Traction Pad to a Surfboard

For many surfers who prefer riding short surfboards, a traction pad is a must. The traction pad, often placed under the back foot, can provide substantial grip where traditional wax will fail. Although the majority of traction pads come with peel-back adhesive, proper application to the board's deck ensures top performance.

Things You'll Need

  • Traction pad
  • Surfboard
  • Fine grit sandpaper
  • Alcohol pad
  • Blow dryer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sand the area where the traction pad will be located.

    • 2

      Clean the sanded area with an alcohol pad to ensure that no dirt or grime remains on the deck of the surfboard.

    • 3

      Line up the traction pad on the desired location. Before removing the peel-back adhesive, use a light pencil to trace an outline for better accuracy.

    • 4

      Peel back the adhesive paper and press the traction pad firmly into place.