Best Surfboard Wax for Grip and Performance

There’s something about opening a fresh bar of surf wax.

That smell… it hits differently. Maybe it reminds you of your first wave on a new board. Or perhaps it reminds you of that one time your wax melted all over your mate's car. Either way, a fresh block of wax is basically heaven on earth.

At Natural Necessity Surf Shop Gerringong, we’ve tested more bars of wax than we can count. And here’s what we know: the best surfboard wax doesn’t just stick. It gives you grip, it boosts your confidence and it makes your board feel like an extension of your body.

You don’t think about it when it’s doing its job. But you’ll feel it the second you’ve used the wrong surf wax.

Let’s break it down. What to use, when to use it and which waxes are plenty sticky with solid grip.

Why Surfboard Wax Matters

Grip. Stability. Control.

Surf wax keeps your feet planted, your balance locked and your board under control... even when the ocean’s throwing everything at you. From your first pop-up to deep bottom turns, wax helps you stay connected. But it's much more than that.

The good stuff will give you a sense of confidence in the water. You'll literally feel like you can do no wrong. Make critical turns. Float that end section like a pro.

A good layer of wax transforms your surf session. A bad one? You’ll spend more time slipping and sliding than shredding.

How to Choose the Right Wax

Water Temperature: Get It Right

First things first. There's not only one wax for all jobs. You need to consider water temperature. Choosing surfboard wax based on water temperature is essential. It’s the difference between grippy and slippery.

• Cold water (under 14°C): Soft, extra sticky formulas.

• Cool water (15–19°C): Slightly firmer for changing conditions.

• Warm water (19–23°C): Firm wax that holds its shape.

• Tropical (24°C and above): Hard wax that won’t melt in the sun.

Choosing the wrong wax for the water temperature is one of the most common mistakes we see at the shop. But the fix is simple. Check the water temps online and match the wax to the conditions. Easy, right?

Basecoat vs. Top Coat

Like the foundations of a house, a solid wax job starts with a good basecoat. This harder layer lets you build solid bumps on top of it so your feet (and you) stay put. 

Basecoats are built from tropical wax. Why? Because it's hard enough to create a solid underlayer.

The top coat is where the grip comes from. It’s made using softer, temperature-specific wax that needs to be refreshed regularly. 

If you’re using just one layer, you’re doing it wrong. Both layers are key to getting the best performance from your wax. And you can have endless carpark conversations about which ratio of basecoat to topcoat works best.

Choosing a Brand That Works

At Natural Necessity, we stock and recommend brands we trust... the ones that've stood the test of time and surf. From global favourites to niche Aussie wax makers, each one offers something different. 

Whether you prefer the smell of bubble gum, the feel of sticky bumps or a beeswax-based formula, the right surf wax is out there. We’ll help you find it. Oh... and did you know we originally started as a surf wax brand? That's right. You can learn more about our waxy origins here.

Top 5 Best Surfboard Waxes

Mr. Zog’s Sex Wax

One of the most iconic surf wax brands in the world. Sex Wax has been a go-to wax since the ’70s... and for good reason. 

It smells great, goes on smooth and performs well in all conditions. Available in cold, cool, warm and tropical formulas, this wax delivers consistent grip and great bumps. A classic for beginners and experienced surfers alike. There's better wax out there performance-wise, but Sex Wax is up there.

FU Wax

Regarded by many as the stickiest wax on the planet. FU Wax is a favourite among pro surfers for high-performance surfing. 

It’s soft, ultra-tacky and perfect for shortboards. The only downside? It wears fast, so it needs regular reapplication. But when it’s fresh, it’s unbeatable. It's also the only wax that might be too sticky.

Cream Wax

Cream offers a premium feel with small-batch quality and refined texture. It’s grippy without being too soft and delivers a smooth feel underfoot. 

If you’re looking for something a little different that still performs, Cream is a great pick. A must-try if you love clean applications and a more refined surf accessory setup.

Huey’s Choice

Huey’s might not be as famous as the big names, but it’s one of our most trusted options. 

It's 100% Australian and it goes on clean, holds up in different water temperatures and maintains solid bumps for multiple sessions. It’s the kind of wax that quietly does its job and does it well.

Mrs Palmers

An Aussie favourite amongst pros and mere mortals like us! 

Mrs Palmers is known for its extra-grip formula. It’s a no-nonsense bar that does exactly what it’s supposed to do. Giving you grip even in warm and tropical waters. Affordable, long-lasting and made for Australian surf. It’s a staple in the Natural Necessity wax rack.

Waxing Tips for Best Results

Finally, how to wax your surfboard! There's only one way to wear a wetsuit and one way to insert fins. But there are different techniques for waxing your board. And everyone has an opinion. Here's what we suggest when it comes to waxing your surfboard right.

Step 1: Apply Your Basecoat

• Start with a clean deck

• Use the edge of the wax bar to create an even crosshatch pattern

• Follow up by rubbing the wax gently over the crosshatches using a circular motion

• The goal is to build firm bumps that act as traction anchors

• The pro tip here is to take your time. A good basecoat takes patience but it makes all the difference

Step 2: Add the Top Coat

• Choose a top coat that matches your water temperature

• Apply it lightly over your basecoat to add that extra layer of stickiness

• You want grip, not gunk. A little goes a long way... especially if you're using FU Wax

Step 3: Maintain Your Wax

• Reapply your top coat every few sessions or when your board feels slippery

• Scrape and re-wax when it gets dirty, slick or choked up with sand

• Use a wax comb to freshen the bumps between surfs. Gently rub it along the wax

• Store your board out of the sun. The sun is surf wax's mortal enemy

• If your feet are slipping, your wax isn’t working.

FAQs

How often should I re-wax?

Add a fresh top coat every 2–3 sessions or whenever the board feels slippery. Fully strip and re-wax every couple of months or when the bumps feel smooth. Surfing daily? You’ll need to wax more often.

Does wax type affect performance?

Absolutely. The wrong wax can lead to slips, missed waves and unnecessary (or even dangerous) wipeouts. The right surf wax gives you reliable grip and helps you perform with confidence.

Is FU Wax used by pro surfers?

Yes. FU Wax is hugely popular among elite surfers, especially in high-performance contests. It’s not for every board or surfer, but when you need serious stickiness, this is the one.

Why is it called Sex Wax?

Mr. Zog chose the name in the 1970s to stand out... and it worked. It’s playful branding, but don’t let the name fool you. It’s one of the most trusted and best-selling surfboard waxes worldwide. Please note that it can't actually be used for, well, you know...

Wax on, wax off, wax up!

At Natural Necessity Surf Shop Gerringong, we’ve been helping surfers choose the right wax, board and gear since the 70s! Whether you’re waxing up a soft top for summer beachies or prepping your performance board for heavy reef breaks, the right surfboard wax matters.

The best surf wax is the one that fits your board, your water temperature and your surf style. Choose well, apply it right and you’ll stay stuck through every drop, turn or punt.

Ready to wax up? Drop by the shop or shop online. We’ve got all this wax and more!