Pads
Surf pads are anti-slip foam patches placed on the back of surfboards (generally fishs, eggs and shortboards). They improve support for the rear foot.
The surf pad is an essential accessory for surfers. Placed on the tail, it provides a better grip for the foot to move around on the board. It was invented in the 1970s by Herbie Fletcher and Tom Morey, who were looking for a system that would not only give them grip, but also enable them to change direction more easily on their boards.
Prism, the surf equipment expert, offers Gorilla and FCS surf pads designed to provide comfort and grip on the waves. Now choose the surf pad that will make your riding easier and take your progression to the next level.
Pads surfing: the kick tail
The kick tail is the raised part at the back of the tail. Its primary purpose is to prevent you from skidding during a big move. The kick tail comes in different sizes for different surf pads. The thicker it is, the more likely you are to make radical changes of direction. The choice of kick tail depends mainly on your surfing style. If it's wide, it's best suited to surfers of a certain level who are able to move through the waves by changing direction.
Pads surf: the arch bar
The arch bar is the central part of the pad. Like the kick tail, it comes in different thicknesses. Some surf pads have none at all. The purpose of the arch bar is to adjust to the surfer's arch. As a general rule, if you have an arched arch and large feet, we recommend a thick arch bar. If you have small feet, we recommend a small arch bar. If you have flat feet, we recommend a pad without an arch bar.
Pads surf: the texture
The texture of surf pads varies from model to model. Pads can be square, diamond, diamond-shaped, grooved or perforated. Pads are made this way to reduce weight and provide extra grip.
Pads surf: surface area
The size of your pad depends mainly on the size of your surfboard. Measure your tail carefully and choose the right pad for you. Prism offers top-quality surf pads for optimal grip and 180° directional changes!
Surf pads: fitting
Before installing your surf pad, your board must be extremely smooth. We suggest you remove the wax with a hair dryer, for example. Next, degrease your board and lightly sand the area where the pad will be fitted. Next, take measurements and draw a precise line with a pencil. Then peel off the adhesive and use a hairdryer to get the glue working. Once hot, you can apply the pad to the board, taking care not to leave any gaps between the two elements.