Mastering the Waves

For a solid field repair, you need a “sun-cure” or “UV” resin kit. These are perfect because they cure quickly in sunlight, no mixing required. Grab a small piece of sandpaper to rough up the area, some squeegee or an old gift card to spread the resin, and a razor blade to trim the excess once it’s set. Toss it all in an old wax tub. This lets you seal the ding temporarily to keep the water out until you can do a more permanent, laminated repair later.

Keep it out of direct sun when not surfing, as UV rays can break down the foam and adhesive. Rinse it with fresh water after saltwater sessions. Avoid getting surfboard oil or solvents on it. If wax builds up on it, use a wax comb or a plastic scraper to gently remove the bulk, then a bit of wax remover on a rag for the residue. With good care, a quality pad should last for years, outliving several board repairs!

East Coast waves are often weaker and mushier, so you’ll want more foam—think funboards or high-volume shortboards to catch everything. West Coast power demands performance: go for a good shortboard for punchy beach breaks or a step-up for bigger, hollow days. For Hawaii’s heavy reefs, you need a board with serious hold—a gun or a dedicated big-wave sled. Always consider your local break; a quiver isn’t a brag, it’s just smart surfing to match your stick to the conditions.

For every crowded iconic spot, there’s a secret cove or a lesser-known reef. Explore the Central Coast around Santa Barbara or San Luis Obispo for fewer crowds and pristine vibes. Northern California, north of SF, has endless nooks and crannies that fire on the right swell. The real magic happens when you get a map, follow the coast road, and adventure. Just be cool and keep those spots on the down-low.