Surf Pads: Grip, Control, and Performance

Q: How to choose your surf pad?

Choose based on the width of the tail, the area to cover, and your preferences underfoot . Compare the dimensions, the number of pieces, the texture, the central relief, and the rear stop. A model should fit the intended area without extending over the rails or interfering with the leash attachment. Compatibility with your board's coating should also be checked.

Q: What are the kick tail and the arch bar for?

The kick tail is the raised stop at the back of the pad: it provides a reference point and support for the back foot. The arch bar is the central relief, usually longitudinal, that alters the contact under the arch of the foot. Their height and shape influence comfort. A more pronounced relief is not necessarily better: choose according to your feelings and your practice.

Q: Which pad to choose for a shortboard?

For a shortboard , look for a tail pad that matches the dimensions of the tail and your foot placement area. Compare the width, kick, arch bar, and texture. The pad should allow you to place your foot where the board is controlled , without being installed too far forward just to make the initial placements easier.

Q: Does a surf pad replace wax?

It usually replaces the wax on the surface it covers , but a rear pad alone does not provide grip under the front foot. You can therefore pair a rear pad with surf wax on the rest of the support area. A front pad can complement this coverage according to your preferences and the manufacturer's recommendations.

(66 products)

Why install a surf pad on your board?

The Surf Pad is now part of the gear for many surfers, from casual riders to competitors. Placed under the back foot, it enhances grip and allows for a better feel of foot positioning on the board without having to look down. This extra precision provides more control in turns, weight shifts, and more engaged maneuvers.

While some riders still prefer to surf only with wax, many appreciate the comfort and confidence that a well-positioned pad brings. Once adopted, it often becomes difficult to go back.

See more

How to choose the right surf pad?

The choice primarily depends on the board used, the surfer's level, and the sensations sought. A performance-oriented rider will not look for the same level of grip as a practitioner who prioritizes comfort and fluidity in their movements.

Since 1976, we have found that a good pad is primarily one that is forgotten during the session while still providing enough reference points when the weight shifts become more engaged. The goal is not to have the most aggressive grip possible, but one that truly matches your surfing style.

Shortboard, fish, or longboard: each board has its needs

Surfers equipped with Shortboards generally prefer pads that offer excellent support during powerful maneuvers. Pronounced kick tails and marked arch bars allow for better locking of the foot placements in the most engaged turns.

Practitioners who surf a Fish Surf often seek more freedom of movement to maintain the fluid and fast character of their board. In certain configurations, Longboards use specific pads designed to support a more traditional glide.

An important element of the feel underfoot

The pad directly contributes to the surfing sensations. It allows for instant recognition of the back foot's position and facilitates weight transfers in critical sections. This sensation becomes particularly appreciated when conditions become more powerful or when maneuvers require more precision.

Paired with a Wax Surf suited to the day's conditions, it helps create a consistent level of grip across the entire board while improving comfort during long sessions.

Properly install your pad to enjoy its full potential

A high-performing pad will only yield good results if it is correctly positioned. Before installation, the board must be perfectly clean, dry, and free of any wax residue. Precise placement then allows for fully exploiting the grip qualities and achieving the desired sensations.

Taking a few minutes to properly install your pad is often the best way to sustainably enjoy its performance for several seasons.

A complete setup to optimize your board

The pad is part of a broader set aimed at improving surfing performance. Surf Fins directly influence the board's behavior, while Surf Leashes ensure the rider's safety in all conditions.

A Surf Bag of quality also helps protect your gear during transport and travel to maintain your equipment's performance over the long term.

The expertise of HawaiiSurf since 1976

For fifty years, HawaiiSurf has been supporting action sports enthusiasts in choosing their gear and accessories. Our selection of surf pads includes models suited to all styles of practice, from recreational surfing to the most performance-oriented programs.

Because good grip directly contributes to enjoyment and confidence in the waves, we prioritize proven references capable of sustainably supporting surfers in their progression.

Pourquoi utiliser un Pad de Surf ?

Le Pad Surf améliore l'accroche, le contrôle et la précision des appuis lors des manœuvres. Placé à l'arrière de votre Planche de Surf, il permet de gagner en confort tout en optimisant les performances de votre surf.

Voir plus

Un grip adapté à chaque style de surf

Que vous surfiez un Shortboard, un Fish Surf, un Funboard, un Longboard ou un Softboard, le choix du pad influence directement vos sensations sous les pieds.

Les différents profils de kick tail, d'arch bar et les découpes permettent d'adapter précisément le grip à votre style de glisse et à votre niveau.

Complétez votre équipement

Retrouvez également notre sélection de Dérives Surf, de Leashs Surf et de Housses de Surf pour optimiser et protéger votre matériel.

FAQ – How to Choose and Install Your Surf Pad

What is a surf pad used for?

A surf pad, also known as a grip, traction pad, or deck grip, provides a non-slip surface underfoot. Placed at the back, it helps identify the position of the back foot and maintain grip during weight shifts. Some models are designed for the front foot. The pad complements your gear but does not replace proper technique and a suitable board.

How to choose your surf pad?

Choose based on the width of the tail, the area to cover, and your preferences underfoot. Compare the dimensions, the number of pieces, the texture, the central relief, and the rear stop. A model should fit the intended area without extending over the rails or interfering with the leash attachment. Compatibility with your board's coating should also be checked.

What is the difference between a one-piece, three-piece, or multi-piece pad?

A one-piece pad maintains a fixed layout. A multi-piece model generally allows for adjusting the spacing and coverage width, within the limits recommended by the manufacturer. Three pieces do not mean three complete pads: they make up a single grip. The number of pieces mainly provides the possibility to adapt to the shape of the board.

What are the kick tail and the arch bar for?

The kick tail is the raised stop at the back of the pad: it provides a reference point and support for the back foot. The arch bar is the central relief, usually longitudinal, that alters the contact under the arch of the foot. Their height and shape influence comfort. A more pronounced relief is not necessarily better: choose according to your feelings and your practice.

Which pad to choose for a shortboard?

For a shortboard, look for a tail pad that matches the dimensions of the tail and your foot placement area. Compare the width, kick, arch bar, and texture. The pad should allow you to place your foot where the board is controlled, without being installed too far forward just to make the initial placements easier.

Which pad to choose for a fish or a board with a wide tail?

Prefer a grip that is wide enough or a multi-piece model suited to the shape of the tail. For a fish, pay special attention to the coverage around the swallow tail and the leash attachment. A pad designed for a narrow tail may leave a significant part of the support area without grip. Compare the dimensions before choosing.

What is a Grom pad?

A Grom pad is generally designed in a more compact format for small boards and young surfers. The name alone does not guarantee that it will fit all kids' boards: check its dimensions, those of the tail, and the area where the foot is placed. The comfort of the central relief and the kicktail also matter.

What is the difference between a rear pad and a front pad?

A rear pad covers the area of the back foot and often has a raised stop. A front pad, or front foot traction, covers the area of the front foot with a generally flatter profile. They serve different needs: do not choose a rear pad for the front just because its dimensions seem suitable.

Does a surf pad replace wax?

It usually replaces the wax on the surface it covers, but a rear pad alone does not provide grip under the front foot. You can therefore pair a rear pad with surf wax on the rest of the support area. A front pad can complement this coverage according to your preferences and the manufacturer's recommendations.

Can you stick a pad on a softboard?

Not automatically. Soft, textured, or EVA coatings do not all react the same way to the adhesive. Check compatibility with the manufacturer of the softboard and the pad before installation. Some boards already have a non-slip surface. A pad designed for a rigid laminated board should not be considered universal.

Where to place the rear pad on your board?

Position it around the central axis, in the area where your back foot controls the tail. Check the location of the stopper in relation to the end of the board and the leash attachment. There is no single distance that applies to all shapes. Place the pieces without removing the adhesive protections and follow the manufacturer's instructions before sticking.

How to prepare the board before sticking a pad?

The surface must be clean, dry, and free of wax, sand, and greasy residues. Only use a cleaning method compatible with the construction and finish of the board. Do not use aggressive solvents and do not sand the deck without explicit recommendation. Careful preparation ensures the adhesive's performance.

How to install a surf pad?

Present the pieces, check their alignment and spacing, then locate their position. Remove the adhesive protections and apply each part according to the manufacturer's instructions. Press firmly on the entire surface, especially on the edges and around the contours, then adhere to the recommended waiting time before putting the board in the water. Avoid peeling and re-sticking the pad during installation.

How long should you wait after gluing a pad?

Please respect the indicated timeframe for your model. FCS specifically recommends waiting 24 hours after installation before going in the water, to allow the adhesive to set. Do not generalize this timeframe without checking the instructions of another brand. Plan the installation before your next session rather than applying the grip just before surfing.

Is a pad essential for beginners?

No. A rear pad can provide a reference point, but it is not necessary for learning take-offs and the first trajectories. Proper grip on the area where you place your feet remains essential. First, choose an accessible board and a properly prepared surface: the pad is a choice of comfort and support, not a condition for progression.

Can you remove or replace a surf pad?

Yes, but its removal must be done carefully to avoid damaging the finish or coating. Remove the residues using a compatible method, then prepare the surface before installing a new grip. The adhesive of a removed pad is not designed to be automatically reused. If an edge comes loose, seek advice before adding any glue.