VersaTraction Deck Grip
I initially heard about VersaTraction from Kainoa Beaupre a few months ago and he was raving about how this peel and stick traction for surfboards was going to replace wax, etc. I didn’t think about it again until talking with Curtis Miyashiro who explained to me how it actually worked and how good it was. He showed it to me on his new Firewire board and I decided to try it on the nose portion of my new SUP’s. I have to say, I am impressed.
Curtis explained to me that the difference between VersaTraction and other peel and stick traction was that it felt just like wax and wouldn’t give you nipple rash. Now, nipple rash on a SUP is not common (well, for most people it’s not), although it is for lay down surfers. The thing that I really like about VersaTraction is that it has the same grippy feel as wax does but without the mess. It’s fairly inexpensive and is pretty easy to install. This stuff if perfect to add grip to your SUP and especially the nose or tail.
VersaTraction Longboard Kit
VersaTraction for Longboards comes with a lot of pieces
Label
Instructions
VersaTraction installed on a Tropical Blends Welo 9′6″
Another angle
VersaTraction installed on a Starboard Element 9′8″
Close up view
Feels like wax
Comet used to wash off protective film after install
and it will not add weight like other deck pads.
Evan, what do you think about using it on a downwind board to save weight? I overheard Curtis telling Wet Feet about this product when I was there in Jan. He was pretty high on it.
DW – I think it can be used instead of a pad to save on weight or if you prefer a more intimate feeling w/ the board like when it has wax. The stuff weighs about the same as paper but how much does a normal deck pad weigh? Will it make a difference?
Evan, ever notice how heavy a board is walking back to the car? They get heavy when the deck pad gets wet, even with the foam being closed cell.
DW – I wonder how much weight that adds? No matter what, the board always feels heavier at the end of the session, especially if you’re carrying it back up Diamond Head or lugging an 18′er in crosswinds.
This is a great way to save weight if you don’t need the cushion of a pad. Like Evan said it doesn’t give rash and it is also unique because it becomes MORE grippy when wet. At Wet Feet we can custom cut it and install it to fit your board perfectly. Aloha, Wetfeethawaii.com
Re-Versa Traction: where can you buy this product on Oahu?
Call Blue Planet Surf 808-596-7755. I think they may have some.
who sells the versa traction in Honolulu?
Thomas – They used to have it at Blue Planet but I’m not sure if they do anymore. If not, try Hawaiian South Shore, Tropical Blends, C4 or Surf n Sea.