What is a surfboard traction?

Where do I put a traction pad on a 6' 5" twin fin Fish Surfboard?

• Does the traction pad go more towards the tail or over the fins? Is it necessary? Which type of traction pad is best for this type of board? I am a beginner/intermediate surfer ...show more

• Answer:

  It depends on your style and preference on whether you would even want a traction pad on your fish. If you're transitioning from a longboard, you're style is going to be different and you probably don't want one. If you're transitioning from a shortboard, then you might find it beneficial if you do a lot of hard turns, airs, and other such things. A 6'5 is pretty big for a fish (I ride shortboards, but the one fish I have is 5'4, I'm about 5'11 tall). My guess is since you're still not too advanced that you don't need a traction pad, because fishes are ridden more toward the middle of the board than a shortboard, and your back foot isn't always going to be in about the same place, as it is more so on a shortboard. Also, since you're asking, I assume you're not used to riding with a traction pad. Therefore I would say to leave it off, and just wax the tail. If you are hell-bent on getting a traction pad, there are ones for fishes with a "vee" cut in the back. Most fishes have the leash plug on one side or the other, so the placement of the pad shouldn't interfere. I prefer my trac pad to be pretty far back on the board, but it shouldn't be more than a couple inches from the edge, then again its mostly preference. But, I really suggest against getting one for you're fish. Fishes are ridden with more style than aggressiveness, and a traction pad isn't that necessary (for most people). Good luck fishing!