Question 1

Choose the right traction for your board

Accepted Answer

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• Narrow Board = Narrow Pads
• Standard width = Standard Pads
• Wide Board/Fish = Wide pad
 
Varying the gaps between pad pieces will also further widen your traction as needed – ie. Spread the traction out for a wider board.

Question 2

Ensure the board is clean

Accepted Answer

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Many board manufacturers use products like ‘Mr Sheen’ to give boards a polished showroom finish that needs to be removed with acetone and/or sandpaper before sticking a grip to it.

Question 3

Arrange traction to perfect your layout before removing the adhesive

Accepted Answer

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Where should your back foot go? Optimal position is all about your personal preference – but we recommend to centre the pad above the front and back fin bases which will help ensure the best foot placement and give the most control when you surf.

Question 4

Use the stringer line to locate the centre of the board

Accepted Answer

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Or measure with a ruler for boards without visible stringers. In many cases the leg-rope plug can be used to double check the layout – I put the semi circle of my pad around 1cm from the plug – which ensures the pad is a good distance back – but with twinny’s and other alternative surf craft the leg-rope plug may be asymmetrically placed or further forward that usual – so keep this in mind. You can use a pencil to mark the proposed position if you need to.

Question 5

Peel off 3m adhesive starting with the centre piece

Accepted Answer

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Then sides – ensuring even gaps on each side – unless you really want to flare out your ride. Fan out further for wider tails – bring in closer for narrow tails.

Question 6

Apply pressure to work out any air bubbles

Accepted Answer

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Paying particular attention to edges, arch area and kick. Ideally wait 24 hours for maximum glue adhesion before surfing.

Question 7

Same basic rules apply for a front deck grip

Accepted Answer

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Though here you will need to work out your own stance width to get everything in the right place – either by standing next to the board assuming the position or even line up using and older board so you can copy the approx. front foot location.

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SURF BASICS

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