I'm considering getting a tailpad for my surfboard. i've never used one does it really make a difference.

Question

I'm considering getting a tailpad for my surfboard. i've never used one does it really make a difference.

Answer 1

riding a surfboard without a tailpad is like riding a bike without a seat.

Answer 2

you can feel a slight difference but its not worth the money

Answer 3

It is purely a matter of personal preference. Those you use them, swear they improve their ride, and I can't dispute that. A lot, of course, does depend on what size board you ride. If you are on a funboard (mini-mal) or longboard, a traction pad is not advisable, your foot placement will be different on a board that size.

Answer 4

I've been surfing for a long time and I have no doubt that tail-pads make a big difference, when I buy a new board I always buy a tail-pad.

For me the most important role they play is in stopping your back foot from sliding off the tail.

They also give you an indication of where your foot is positioned purely through feeling the pad under your foot.

I can't say whether or not a tail pad is more grippy than a good wax job but I can say it is comparable and certainly no less grippy, with the added advantage of the two points highlighted above.

It also means you use less wax and have a degree of cushioning for more high impact maneuvers like airs and floaters.

If you do decide to get one make sure your board is ultra clean before sticking it down. i use nail polish remover to ensure there is no wax or dirt on the deck before applying the pad. I'd also leave it for 48 hours before taking it in the water.

Another selling point is the fact that the vast majority of pro's use them,surely that is an indication of the advantage they give. Just check out a surf mag or DVD!

Answer 5

Okay, nate T has obviously never surfed, at least on anything but a longboard. If you have a shortboard, its pretty much neccessary. Riding a shortboard without a trac pad is like riding a bicycle without a seat. Only on two of my boards do I not have them (they're both pintails for much bigger days) and instead I put wax down. But yeah, of course its worth it. I mean, they're at the most 30 to 40 bucks. When you're starting, its good for learning where to place your foot, and its always good for traction, regardless of surfing level. I always use Creatures of Leisure stomp pads, they're my favorite. So get one, especially if you're in the beginner stage, though there are some occasions where you don't need one or its better without.

Oh, and always when cleaning your board, waxing or de-waxing, or putting on stickers or tailpads, use Acetone on a rag to clean your board. And let the stomp pad sit for at least a day before you test it out.