By acting like a protective layer on your surfing board, a surf wax not only helps your board to get proper traction in the water but also assists you to get a stronger grip. A top-rated wax can make all the difference between staying on your board and being thrown off into the water, independent of the fact you are an amateur or an experienced surfer.
When it comes to the definition of the best surf wax, it is the unique combination of ease of application, affordability, and formula. Our list of the best surfboard wax that we have compiled after going through surf wax reviews will give you the best options on the market. Once you have made up your mind, all that’s left for you is to ride those waves!
OUR TOP PICK
1. Mr. Zogs Original Sex Wax Surf Wax
Sounding phonetically cool due to its attention-grabbing and absurd name, Mr. Zogs Original Sex Wax Surf Wax is the best surfboard wax on our list when it comes to versatility, ease of application, and durability. An all-American iconic brand manufactured in the USA but sold all around the world, Mr. Zogs is exceptionally versatile. You can not only use it on your surfboard but also on a hockey stick if you have one. Smoother than most waxes, Mr. Zogs is perfect for a base coat and a top wax and is explicitly designed for warm water. Depending on where you like to surf, you can choose cold, cool, or tropical water waxes as the brand offers several models. We love the fact that each water type comes with a different scent, one of which channels the fresh coconut smell of Hawaii. Mr. Zogs can handle the warmest temperatures and hold its shape and smell without any issues. Besides, it provides you with an excellent hold.
What Makes This Surf Wax Stand Out
· 4 different scents available, Coconut, Strawberry, Grape, and Pineapple
· Available in four water temperatures; Cold, Cool, Warm, and Tropical
· An iconic American brand
· It can be used for both base and top coats
· It can be used on surfboards, drums, and hockey sticks
MODEL SPECS
Water Temperature: Warm
Weight: 0.3 Ounces
EDITORS CHOICE
2. Mr. Zog’s Sex Wax Quick Humps Surf Wax
Another exceptional wax from a company founded by surfers that have been dedicated to crafting the best waxes for surf lovers around the world, Mr. Zog’s Sex Wax Quick Humps Surf Wax lands the second choice on our list. This one is definitely for those surfers who are looking for a formula that creates the ideal balance between stability and stickiness. You can count on this unique surf wax that is perfect for cool waters, such as those in Northern California. Still, it holds up well in warmer climates likewise. With orange, purple, yellow, and multicolored options, Quick Humps allows its customers to find a color to match any board style. When you apply this surf wax, it clumps together to create small humps for your feet to grip, which feels great and creates traction. Mr. Zog’s Sex Wax Quick Hump is also a favorite among the environmentalist surfers as it comes packaged in a recyclable paperboard box.
What Makes This Surf Wax Stand Out
· Designed for cool to warm climates
· An iconic American brand
· Gives great traction
· Orange, purple, yellow, and multicolored options
· Comes packaged in a recyclable paperboard boxes
MODEL SPECS
Water Temperature: 14o C to 23o C
Weight: 0.6 ounces
BEST VALUE
3. Sticky Bumps Original Board Surf Wax
Created from a finessed snag and grab technology that has been perfected since 1992, Sticky Bumps Original Board Surf Wax is another top-rated surf wax on our list for surfers who are looking for affordable surf wax that doesn't sacrifice quality. Using an additive that sticks to your board and builds up small, sticky bumps, this clear surf wax gives you a rough, yet soft, platform to stand on. The tiny bumps and ridges provide a fantastic grip and set this brand apart from the competition. Sticky Bumps is proud of its eco-friendly touch, too. In the manufacturing of the wax, there is no waste product, everything is recyclable, and it is completely biodegradable by emulsifying in the water. You can be sure that this product's passion and safety will keep you on your board a lot longer than cheaper and more ecologically-harmful waxes.
What Makes This Surf Wax Stand Out
· Perfected snag and grab technology since 1992
· Biodegradable and emulsifies in the water
· Environmentally-friendly packaging
· Non-toxic surf bar made by surfers
· It can be used above 69 degrees Fahrenheit
MODEL SPECS
Water Temperature: Above 75oF
Weight: 80 grams
4. Double Barrel Surf Wax
Specially engineered to give you the best traction in waters between 58-68°F water, Double Barrel Surf Wax is hand-made right in the heart of California. This high-quality cold-water wax allows you to stick to your board even in those gnar conditions. Double Barrel smells like coconut and has your board, your car, and your surf shack smelling like surfing. This wax has been created with the environment at the forefront, ensuring it causes as little impact as possible. Careful attention has been paid to how the product affects the water so that when the wax is absorbed into the ocean, it doesn't affect its Ph. balance. Double Barrel can be used as your only wax or with a basecoat and comes packaged in a retro design that gives you a nostalgic feeling.
What Makes This Surf Wax Stand Out
· Ideal for usage in cool water
· Has an addictive Coconut smell
· Provides good traction even in harsh conditions
· It doesn't affect the ocean's Ph. balance
· Hand made in California to exacting standards
MODEL SPECS
Water Temperature: 58 to 68o F
Weight: 1.2 pounds
5. Matuna’s Surf Wax
Made from 100% natural, biodegradable ingredients, which is a big thumbs up for the corals and other sea life, Matuna’s Surf Wax is the perfect surf wax for people who puts a real focus on natural ingredients and prefer products that work with the environment rather than against it. This non-toxic and eco-friendly soy surf wax is made from recycled materials. Besides, the ink used is also made soy-based. Along with its eco-friendly nature, Matuna’s is also one of the best quality surf waxes on the market. It is easy to apply and long-lasting, so you won't need to continually disrupt your surf to reapply wax. We love the fact that this biodegradable and petroleum-free surf wax from Matuna comes in a 6 pack and offers options for the base as well as cold, cool, tropical, and warm waters.
What Makes This Surf Wax Stand Out
· Comes packed in 6
· Biodegradable, petroleum-free, synthetic chemicals-free
· The package is made on recycled paper with soy ink
· Made using local ingredients from a farm in California
· Available in cold, cool, tropical, and warm waters
MODEL SPECS
Water Temperature: Cool, Warm, Tropical
Weight: 1.2 pounds
6. Outdoor Wax Works Surf Wax
With its 100% all-natural environmentally friendly formula, Outdoor Wax Works Surf Wax deserves the 6th spot on our list as it lasts longer compared to its competitors in the market and helps you feel good about your purchase at the same time. Extremely versatile and perfect for adding grip to your board when surfing, this surf wax from Outdoor has been designed for a wide range of temperatures. It offers a firm grip in colder climates, without beginning to melt off when the temperature starts to rise. There is also no scent to it, so it's an excellent option for those sensitive to smell. Kind to the ocean biodiversity as it doesn’t harm corals or marine life, Outdoor is one of the most popular environmentally-friendly wax for surfboards according to surf wax reviews.
What Makes This Surf Wax Stand Out
· It has been designed for a wide range of temperatures
· Wide temperature range
· No additives including scents
· Used for traction, to keep your feet stuck to the surfboard deck
· 100% natural formula makes it effective in all climates
MODEL SPECS
Water Temperature: 50 to 90o F
Weight: 2.1 ounces
7. Mrs. Palmers Tropical Surfboard Surf Wax
Australia’s best-selling surf wax, which says a lot given Australia's vast surfing culture, Mrs. Palmers Tropical Surfboard Surf Wax has been manufactured by Mrs. Palmer and her five daughters. As expected from a product popular in Australia, Mrs. Palmer's Tropical Surfboard wax is ideal for tropical climates. Two features make this wax a must-have for surfers. The first one is that it is incredibly long-lasting. Once you have waxed your board, you can surf all day without worrying about slipping off or re-waxing your board. The second is the fact that it is also ultra-sticky, giving you the ultimate traction while surfing in a tropical climate. Designed for water temperatures above 75 degrees, this surf wax is a must-buy if you will be hitting the waves in a tropical climate.
What Makes This Surf Wax Stand Out
· Designed for water temperature above 75 degrees
· Has an ultra-sticky formula
· Specifically manufactured for tropical climates
· Made in Australia
· It doesn't wear out in the water
MODEL SPECS
Water Temperature: 75o F and above
Weight per bar: 70 grams
8. Bubble Gum Surf Wax
With its formula that has been keeping surfers stuck to their boards since 1984, Bubble Gum Surf Wax is made from the finest quality ingredients in California and is ideal for use in all water temperatures. This top-rated surf wax has been uniquely created to look like – you guessed it – bubble gum! The wax appears pink, but when you apply it to your board, it turns white. It gives you a firm hold and lasts for a long time in the water. Along with the purchase, you also receive a wax comb, gum, and some stickers. The brand gives options for all four surfing temperatures, and each comes with the extras. With all the additions taken into consideration, Bubble Gum is one of the most affordable waxes on our list.
What Makes This Surf Wax Stand Out
· It has a bubble gum scent
· A wax comb is included in the package
· There are 4 temperatures available
· Used by the top surfers all over the world
· Made in California
MODEL SPECS
Water Temperature: Warm, Cool, Cold, Tropical
Weight: 85 grams
9. Famous Green Label Cool Surf Wax
Don't let the fun scent fool you, as Famous Green Label Cool Surf Wax's original formula is
used for serious grip in every condition by top surfers all over the world. A clear surf wax that will match any board, while also adding shine to it, Famous Green is designed to provide tackiness that will give you a solid grip, even in the roughest of waters. If you love surfing in the cool waters, then this one is the right product for you. Furthermore, the included wax comb helps you apply the wax to your board, and the UV inhibitor keeps it fresh and protected. Naturally biodegradable and free of any toxic chemicals, Famous Green won't damage underwater life even if it does come off.
What Makes This Surf Wax Stand Out
· Recommended for use in cool waters
· Easy to apply and smells great
· Green Label features recycled FSC certified packaging
· Non-toxic, biodegradable, all-natural
· Free of oil so it does not work well if put on top of or mixed with other petroleum-based surf wax
MODEL SPECS
Water Temperature: 60-68oF
Weight: 0.2 ounces
10. Sticky Bumps Hawaiian Surf Wax
One of the first surfboard waxes which broke away from the traditional paraffin wax, Sticky Bumps Hawaiian Surf Wax lands the last spot on our list of the best surfboard wax in 2020. Designed for the warmest climates, Sticky Bumps creates a long-lasting layer and stays on your board no matter how rough the conditions get. Incredibly easy to apply and remove, it has an addictive Pina Colada scent for a real Hawaiian experience.
What Makes This Surf Wax Stand Out
· Use Sticky Bumps basecoat under any of the brand's temperature-specific waxes
· Pina Colada Scent
· Non-Toxic, Biodegradable, All-Natural
· A special blend for extra hot water 80°F/26°C and above
· Long-lasting and easy to apply formula.
MODEL SPECS
Water Temperature: 75oF and above
Weight per bar: 85 grams
How To Choose The Best Surf Wax – Buying Guide
Climate and Surf Wax Temperature
Choosing the correct wax for your climate can be the difference between staying on your board and falling off of it. Most waxes are designed to be used in particular water temperatures. There is nothing worse than applying the wrong wax in a hot environment to see it melt off right before your eyes. Therefore, always make sure to check the temperature ratings of the company you are buying from. There are 4 main categories of surf wax, and each works better in different climates:
Tropical: 75 degrees and above
Warm: 64-74 degrees
Cool: 58-68 degrees
Cold: 60 degrees or below
Basecoat Vs. Top Coat
There are two main types of wax: basecoat wax and top coat wax. A basecoat wax is a hard wax that doesn't melt off and provides a base layer for your main wax. When you apply it to your board, it provides a foundation layer. This layer is thick, hard, and has the ability to hold up even in hotter temperatures.
The topcoat on the other hand is applied after your basecoat. It is a thinner layer of wax that provides a lot of the grip on your board. Compared to the basecoat, it is a softer and stickier wax. This is the layer that provides your man grip on the board. As it is thinner in nature, it has the tendency to melt easier. Once you have your basecoat on the board, you should not have to apply it very often, but you will need to use it on your topcoat more often.
Type Of Wax
Depending on how you surf, you may want to choose between traditional wax and sticky wax. Traditional wax is harder and not as sticky in nature. It creates small clumps of wax which provides traction for your feet. Sticky wax is, well, stickier. It is a soft and tacky wax that gives you more grip, but you get more on your feet. Sticky wax, on the other hand, is suitable for new boards or boards which have recently been stripped and those without any traction pads.
Ingredients
The ingredients are essential in any product, but especially so when you are in the water. You want your wax to be safe for the water. If the wax comes off your board, then you do not want it to pollute the water. We always recommend looking for a wax consisting of natural ingredients over one that has a lot of chemicals in it.
FAQs
Q: How Do I Wax My Surfboard?
A: Putting wax on your surfboard is a relatively straightforward process. Here are the steps:
· Make sure that your board is clean. A quick wash and dry will make the application easier, and you will avoid getting dirt in your wax and on your board.
· If you are applying wax for the very first time, you should use a base coat first.
· When you begin to apply your wax, you should rub the wax in small circles. This helps to create small bumps on the board, which will give you a better grip. Once you have a layer of small bumps, you can rub the wax in any direction.
· Try out your surfboard and add more wax next time if you need to.
Q: When Should You Add More Wax To Your Surfboard?
A: When you start to feel yourself slipping on your board, it is time to add more wax. More wax will give you more hold, but you should also be careful when adding. The more wax you have on your board, the heavier your board gets. This can change the way you surf. More wax can also accumulate more dirt and grime. If you have a lot of wax on your board and are not feeling traction, it might be time to remove it and start again.
Q: When Should You Remove Your Wax?
A: When you have too much wax on your board and have lost traction, it is time to remove the wax. If any work needs to be done to your board, you should remove the wax, as well. Take some warm sand and rub it over your board. The coarseness of the sand will remove the layer of wax from your board.
Q: Should I Use A Base Coat For My Surfboard?
A: That depends on if you want to. There are two main reasons for using a base coat. The first is that you will need to use less of the topcoat. The other purpose is that it helps to create the small bumps required for traction.
Q: When Should I Use A Wax Comb?
A: If you have a lot of wax on your board and are not getting the traction you need, you can use a wax comb as an alternative to removing the wax and applying a new layer. A wax comb digs through the wax and creates the small bumps needed to give you traction.
Overview
Surfing takes practice and dedication. It is not all about getting out there and riding the waves. You need to be prepared before stepping foot in the water. Waxing your board is something that you should be doing regularly. Great surf wax is a must-have accessory for any surfer, beginner, or professional. Hopefully, one of the waxes from our list is the one you are looking for.