Surfing is just about catching the perfect wave—it’s also important to remember to maintain your surfboard. One of the things that gets overlooked is wax maintenance. This is where wax combs and scrapers come into play. In this article, we’ll jump into the world of these essential tools, their functions, and how to keep your board in top shape.
Introduction to Wax Combs For Surfboards
Wax combs and surf wax scrapers are small, unassuming tools that play an important part in a surfer’s life. You’ll find surf wax scrapers, wax combs, and combinations of both. For the most part, when someone says they have a wax comb, it has a “comb” side as well as a scraping edge or edges.
What Are Wax Combs Used For
The comb creates texture on surf wax already on your board’s surface. The jagged “comb” edge roughens up the surf wax to give it some new life. This provides better traction for your feet without having to keep adding more surf wax all the time.
The scraping edge is simply all about scraping old surf wax from your surfboard. It has a flat, straight edge that efficiently scrapes away the existing wax layer.
As I mentioned above most wax combs have a scraping edge, but there are several options for just wax scraping. More on that a little later.
When to use a wax comb
When your wax is still sticky, but has gone “flat.” You’ll be able to tell if your wax is flat or going flat because it lacks bumps. There is no hard and fast rule about when to comb your surf wax. Personally, I comb my surf wax every few weeks or so. A buddy of mine combs his wax before almost every surf session.
When to use a wax scraper or scraping edge of a wax comb
As the seasons and water temp change, you’ll need to scrape off your old wax for a new coat of surf wax. We have a post on surf wax temp rating if you’re unsure what wax to use.
When your wax is no longer sticky and/or too dirty to work effectively grab your wax comb and use the flat scraping edge.
Always remove wax before you put your surfboard in a bag for travel.
Types of Surf Wax Combs
Basic Wax Combs
These have both a scraping edge and a jagged edge for combing.
Simple, effective, and a staple in every surfer’s toolkit.
Multi-Edged Wax Combs
Some combs offer additional edges for thorough coverage.
Look for ones with handles or knuckles for better grip and leverage during scraping.
Wax Combs With Additional Features
Wax Comb With Fin Key Integration
Some wax combs come with a built-in fin key. Handy for installing and removing fins. Make sure that the fin is the same size as the screws for your specific brand of fins. Remember FCS and Futures have different size screws
Wax Comb With A Bottle Opener (Because Why Not?)
Yes, some combs double as bottle openers. After a great surf, crack open a cold one!
Some Awesome Reccomdations
The Sticky Bumps Easy Grip Wax Comb
The Sticky Bumps Easy Grip Wax Comb is the ultimate on-the-go tool for scraping your surfboard at the beach. It features a flat, straight edge for getting rid of unwanted wax and a jagged tooth edge to create texture for added traction. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, this handy little scraper will surely become a staple in your board-care collection.
Approximate cost:$2.00
Get it at StickyBumbs.com or Amazon.com
Mr. Zogs Surf Wax Comb
The Mr. Zog’s Surf Wax Comb is a must-have accessory for surfers!
Mr. Zog’s Surf Wax Comb is thoughtfully shaped to fit comfortably in your hand. Its ergonomic design ensures that you can easily grip it while working on your board. Crafted from high-quality plastic, this comb strikes the right balance between rigidity and flexibility. It’s sturdy enough to remove stubborn wax, yet flexible enough to contour to your board’s rails.
Approximate cost:$1.25 or more.
(quick tip; sexwax.com has them for CHEAP!)
Get it at Sexwax.com or Amazon.com
Sand Everywhere Bamboo Wax Comb
The Sand Everywhere Bamboo Surf Wax Comb comes in a gnarly 2-pack. Featuring natural and eco-friendly bamboo combs. These lightweight tools are perfect for all surfers. Constructed with durable and sustainable 100% bamboo material, this comb is designed for long-term use. It’s got a dual-sided design, making it easy to efficiently scrape off surfwax from your board. It won’t scratch or damage your board as you apply or remove wax. The comb’s shape allows for deep wax penetration, enhancing grip control.
Approximate cost:$10.00. Get it at Amazon.com
The Ho Stevie! Surf Wax Comb
This is a versatile tool designed for surfers who want to maintain their boards easily. No more searching for a separate fin key! The Ho Stevie! Surf Wax Comb conveniently integrates a fin key, ensuring you’re always prepared for fin adjustments. Slip it into your surf bag or pocket—it’s lightweight and easy to carry. Whether you’re at the beach or traveling to a surf spot, the Ho Stevie! Surf Wax Comb has got you covered. Lastly, there is also a bottle opener you can use to pop a cold one when you’re done riding the waves.
Approximate cost:$10.00. Get it at Amazon.com
The WaxBuddy 4
Crafted from heavy-duty, recycled plastic, the WaxBuddy 4 is built to last. It fits comfortably in your hand, making it easy to use. Slip the WaxBuddy 4 into your surf bag or pocket. It’s lightweight and travel-friendly, so you can take it wherever you go. It also has a bottle opener in the handle.
Approximate cost:$5.99 at WaxBuddy.com
To Close out this post:
A wax comb for your board is an essential bit of gear no surfer should be without. Some are cheap and others cost a bit more, but the way I see it, they’re totally worth the small investment. Obviously, if you aren’t a fan of the wax combs I’d suggest a simple Google search will show a whole bunch more! Drop a comment below or hit us up on the contact page for any questions you might have.
