One of the essential accessories surfers use is surf wax, which provides grip and stability on their boards. Commercial surf wax is readily available, yet it can be fun, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly to make your own. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make surf wax with natural ingredients and discuss the importance of surf wax and combing in shaping your board.
What is surf wax, and how does it work?
For added grip, surf wax is added to the deck of a surfboard. This prevents the surfer from falling off the board while running on the waves. It is also a critical component in the operation and integrity of the board. A surf wax and comb is also part of caring for the wax, whether it is to roughen the wax for better traction or to scrape off excess before applying a new layer.
Commercial surf wax often contains synthetic ingredients, while homemade versions replace those dubious components with natural ingredients such as beeswax, coconut oil, and tree resin, making them more eco-friendly.
Important Ingredients for Making Surf Wax
Making surf wax at home requires just a few simple ingredients.
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Beeswax – The main base ingredient adds a sticky, solid texture.
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Coconut Oil– Softens the wax, so it is easier to use.
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Tree Resin (optional) – Increases tackiness and durability.
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Essential Oils (optional)-Add scent to your wax (e.g., citrus or peppermint).
The ratio of ingredients can be adjusted to fit the temperature of your water. For warmer waters, use a hard wax with higher beeswax content; for colder waters, use a soft wax with higher coconut oil content.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Making Your Own Surf Wax
Let’s check how to make surf wax in detail:
Step 1: Melt the Beeswax
Put the beeswax in a double boiler or heat-safe container over boiling water. Stir occasionally to melt evenly. Do not apply direct heat to beeswax, as it can catch fire.
Step 2: Add Coconut Oil
When all the beeswax is melted, add coconut oil in a 4:1 ratio (4 parts beeswax to 1 part coconut oil). This allows the ingredients to be incorporated properly.
Step 3 (Optional) : Add some tree resin
If you want it to be stickier, slowly add some tree resin. This is not required but can help the wax grip even better.
Step 4 (Optional) : Add fragrance
Add a few drops of essential oil if you want a pleasant smell. Stir well.
Step 5: Pour and Set the Wax
Spoon the melted mixture into molds or silicone muffin trays. This needs cooling at room temperature until hard.
Step 6: Store and Use
When it hardens, pop the wax out of the molds and store it in a cool, dry place. It was how you use surf wax and comb to your board and keep that.
Tips for Applying and Maintaining Surf Wax
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Apply the Wax: Essentially, rub the wax on the board in a circular motion.
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Utilize a Surf Wax Comb: Besides adhering to your wax, a surf wax comb can be used to make ridged patterns to improve grip or remove old wax.
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Reapply When Necessary: Replenish the wax for it to stay effective.
Conclusion
Making your own surf wax is a very rewarding process. This will give you the texture and components you’re after and reduce your environmental footprint. Whether you are an experienced surfer or just beginning, a surf wax will give you a better grip to perform better in the water.
Homemade surf wax also allows you to experiment with different recipes for water temperatures and your personal needs. It is much cheaper and more environmentally friendly than commercial waxes, which are filled with synthetic additives. These six simple steps for making high-quality green wax will take your surfing and the environment to the next level. For the best results, pair your homemade wax with a Khonu surf wax and comb to keep your board in top condition and maximize grip on the waves