Surfboard Traction Pads
Surfboard traction pads are grippy foam pads attached to a surfboard’s deck. Their main job is to help your back foot stay in place. This is especially useful during high-speed maneuvers and sharp turns. These pads are usually placed near the tail, just in front of the leash plug.
Before pads came along, surfers only used wax for grip. Waxing needs frequent reapplying and melts in the sun. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, that changed. Surfing was evolving—riders were getting faster and more aerial. They needed better grip to match the new style. Traction pads arrived and quickly became a game-changer.
Tail pads are the most common type. They go at the back of the board, where your back foot rests. These often feature a raised kick tail, which acts like a backstop. It keeps your foot from slipping off during aggressive turns. Many also include a center arch bar. The arch raises your foot slightly, giving more control and feedback.
There are also **front pads**, though they’re less common. These cover the area where your front foot goes. Some surfers use them instead of wax—especially in warm places where wax melts. Front pads are flatter and thinner but still offer excellent grip.
**Multi-piece pads** are another option. These come in two or more separate pieces. You can space them out or angle them to match your stance. This gives you more control over how the pad fits your board. The textures vary—some have diamond grooves, others use vertical lines or circular bumps.
The materials used in pads have come a long way. Early versions were thick and not very comfortable. Now, most are made with lightweight EVA foam, which provides grip without sacrificing comfort. Many companies are moving toward **eco-friendly** materials, using recycled content or biodegradable glue.
Using a traction pad offers a few key benefits. First, you don’t need to wax as often—or at all in some cases. That saves time and keeps your board cleaner. Second, the pad provides consistent grip that doesn’t melt or wash off. And third, it helps you drive more power through your turns. That’s especially useful on **performance shortboards**.
Installing a pad is easy but takes a little care. Start with a clean, dry board. Remove all wax and dirt from the surface. Then peel off the backing and place the pad where your foot naturally lands. Once it’s in place, press down firmly and let it cure for a few hours. Don’t rush—an uneven pad can mess with your balance.
Some surfers still prefer wax for its natural feel and tradition. But traction pads have loyal fans too. They provide a more locked-in feel and reduce the chance of slipping. Surfers who love airs or quick direction changes often swear by them.
The pad also adds style. They come in endless colors, textures, and patterns. Whether you want classic black or wild neon swirls, there’s a design for you. Many surfers match their pads with their leash, fins, or wetsuit for a custom look.
Over time, traction pads have become part of the surfing identity. They show off a surfer’s style while enhancing performance. From pro-level shredders to everyday beach riders, more surfers are choosing pads to step up their game.
So, whether you're carving clean lines or still figuring out your stance, a traction pad is worth trying. It can boost your confidence, improve your grip, and add flair to your board.
At Bob Gnarly Surf, our tail pad range offers a variety of options, so surfers can choose the perfect pad for their board.
