To use Sticky Bumps wax effectively, apply it to your board with light to medium pressure, starting at a diagonal angle and then switching to another angle to build up small, tacky bumps. Avoid pushing too hard, as excessive pressure can flatten the desired texture.
Applying surfboard wax, like Sticky Bumps, is crucial for maintaining grip and stability while riding waves. The technique focuses on creating a textured surface that provides traction for your feet.
The Waxing Technique Explained
The core method involves a specific application style designed to achieve maximum grip.
- Start Diagonally: Begin by rubbing the wax onto the surface of your surfboard at a diagonal angle.
- Switch Angles: After covering an area with strokes in one diagonal direction, switch to another diagonal angle (often crossing the first set of lines).
- Apply Light to Medium Pressure: Use only light to medium pressure during application. The goal is to deposit wax and create texture, not to melt or spread it thinly.
- Build Bumps: Continue this process, layering strokes at different angles with gentle pressure. This action lifts the wax into small, tacky bumps.
- Why Bumps Matter: These small, raised bumps are what provide the grip for your feet, preventing slipping.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
While simple, there's one key mistake that can hinder the wax's effectiveness:
- Don't Push Too Hard: Applying too much pressure is counterproductive. As the reference states, using too much pressure can flatten the bumps you are trying to build. This results in a smoother, less grippy surface.
Summary of Application Steps
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Ensure your board surface is clean and dry.
- Take your Sticky Bumps wax bar.
- Apply wax using light to medium pressure.
- Start with diagonal strokes.
- Switch to another diagonal angle to cross-hatch.
- Repeat until small, tacky bumps are visible and cover the desired area.
- Avoid pushing hard to prevent flattening the bumps.
Following this method ensures you leverage the properties of Sticky Bumps wax to create the optimal gripping surface for your surfing.
