Best Surfboard Traction Pads of 2026

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2026

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Surfboard traction pads are a crucial accessory for any surfer looking to improve their grip and control on their board. These pads are made of high-quality, non-slip materials that provide a secure and comfortable grip for the surfer's feet. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to fit any type of surfboard and personal style. Additionally, they are easy to install and remove, making them a convenient and practical addition to any surfer's gear. With surfboard traction pads, surfers can confidently ride the waves and perform their best tricks without worrying about slipping or losing their balance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Dakine Pickup Tailgate Surfboard Pad Cover #TOP 1
Dakine Pickup Tailgate Surfboard Pad
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Dakine Andy Irons Pro Surf Traction Pad Cover #TOP 2
Dakine Andy Irons Pro Surf Traction Pad
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Crab Grab Mega Claw Traction Stomp Pad Cover #TOP 3
Crab Grab Mega Claw Traction Stomp Pad
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Surfboard Traction Pads

#TOP 1

Dakine Pickup Tailgate Surfboard Pad

10002844
BLACK
One Size
Dakine Pickup Tailgate Surfboard Pad Cover
DAKINE Tailgate SURF PAD

The Dakine Tailgate Pad is a great solution for protecting your surfboards or SUPs when transported in pickup beds. The larger design allows for multiple longboards or a single SUP board to be transported securely. The contoured raised foam with padded flaps fits a wide variety of tailgate shapes, ensuring a snug fit. The durable UV resistant 600D polyester outer material and soft fleece backing provide added protection against the elements. With the Dakine Tailgate Pad, you can transport your boards with ease and peace of mind.

What We Like
Multiple board transport
Contoured raised foam
UV resistant material
#TOP 2

Dakine Andy Irons Pro Surf Traction Pad

10003447
Black
One Size
Dakine Andy Irons Pro Surf Traction Pad Cover
Dakine Andy Irons Pro Surf Traction Pad - Black, One Size

The Dakine Pro Surf Traction Pad is a high-performance surfboard traction pad designed in partnership with EcoLogic. Made with Friendly Foam, this eco-friendly EVA traction pad features the innovative EcoOne technology, ensuring minimal impact on the environment. The plastic-free packaging further emphasizes the brand's commitment to sustainability. The Positraction grid pattern provides excellent grip and control, while the three-piece design allows for easy customization and placement on your surfboard. With a 5mm center arch, this traction pad offers enhanced support and stability, allowing you to maintain optimal balance while riding the waves. Experience the convenience and performance of the Dakine Pro Surf Traction Pad and take your surfing to the next level.

What We Like
Eco-friendly
Excellent grip and control
Customizable design
#TOP 3

Crab Grab Mega Claw Traction Stomp Pad

Crab Grab
Black and Red
One Size
Crab Grab Mega Claw Traction Stomp Pad Cover
Mega Claw Traction Stomp Pad by Crab Grab in Black and Red 2025

The Crab Grab Traction Stomp Pad is designed with C-Foam, giving you a comfortable and durable surface to help keep your footing steady on your snowboard. It uses screw glue, which ensures the pad sticks firmly to your board, so you don’t have to worry about it coming loose during your ride. The gripples add extra traction, helping you maintain control whether you’re on all-mountain slopes, backcountry trails, or freestyle parks. At 6.5 inches, it’s the perfect size to offer reliable support without getting in your way. This stomp pad is great for snowboarders who want better board control and confidence in various riding styles.

What We Like
Durable C-Foam material
Strong screw glue attachment
Enhanced grip with gripples
Compact 6.5-inch size
Versatile for all snowboarding styles
#TOP 4

Dakine Bruce Irons Traction Pad

10003448
Black
Onc Size
Dakine Bruce Irons Traction Pad Cover
Dakine Bruce Irons Pro Surf Traction Pad - Black, One Size

The Dakine Traction Pad is designed to enhance your surfing experience. Made from eco-friendly foam, this biodegradable EVA material is not only good for the environment but also provides excellent grip. The 3M high-grade adhesive ensures that the pad sticks securely to your board, giving you confidence in every ride. With dimensions of 12 x 13.75 inches, it offers ample coverage for your feet. The 7mm arch bar and 25mm kicktail provide added support and stability, allowing you to maneuver with ease and control while catching waves.

What We Like
Eco-friendly materials
Strong adhesive
Ample coverage
Enhanced stability
#TOP 5

Surf Squared Arch 3-Piece Tail Traction Pad w/Tail Kick

Surf Squared
Arch (Solid Black)
Surf Squared Arch 3-Piece Tail Traction Pad w/Tail Kick Cover
Surf Squared 3-Piece Surfboard Traction Pad – Arch, Flat & Front Options for Max Grip – Strong 3M Adhesive – Fits Shortboards, Fish, Longboards, SUPs & Skimboards – Stomp or Deck Pad

Transform your surfing experience with the Surf Squared Tail Traction Pad. Say goodbye to messy and slippery surf wax, as this grip pad offers a wax-free solution. Designed for all types of boards, including surfboards, skimboards, kite surfing boards, and wakesurf boards, this traction pad provides a supple diamond grip that enhances your performance on the water. The 45-degree vert kick and beveled edges of the pad ensure a secure foot placement and reduce the risk of falls. With its strong 3M adhesive, this pad bonds permanently to your board, and the 2 dedicated surfers behind this product stand behind its quality. Upgrade your surfing game with the Surf Squared Tail Traction Pad.

What We Like
Mess-free
Enhanced performance
Secure foot placement
#TOP 6

Santa Barbara Surfing SBS Front Traction Pad

Santa Barbara Surfing SBS Front Traction Pad Cover
Santa Barbara Surfing SBS Front Traction Pad

The Santa Barbara SBS Traction Pad offers a great alternative to traditional wax, saving you the hassle of constant reapplication. Its strong adhesive ensures the pad stays securely attached to your board, so you can focus on surfing without worrying about it coming loose. Measuring 15 by 15 inches, the pad is made up of four sections spaced evenly to provide optimal coverage. At just 2.5mm thick, it’s lightweight and features vertical grooves that give you excellent grip, making it perfect for front traction. This pad is a convenient and reliable choice for surfers looking to improve their board control.

What We Like
Wax-free surface
Strong adhesive grip
Optimal size and spacing
Lightweight and thin
Vertical grip grooves
#TOP 7

Abahub 3 Piece EVA Surfboard Traction Pads

SSP190401BK
Black
12.4 inches x 5"
Abahub 3 Piece EVA Surfboard Traction Pads Cover
Abahub 3 Piece EVA Surfboard Deck Traction Pads with Kicker for Stomp Skimboards, Surf Boards, Funboard, Fish Board, Black

The Abahub 3 Piece EVA Surfboard Traction Pads provide soft and comfortable grip while maintaining textured traction for your feet. The 3M adhesive ensures that the traction pad sticks firmly and is designed for turns and cutbacks. These traction pads are compatible with all types of boards and have a beveled tail kick and center arch to increase your surfboard's maneuverability and make it easier to turn. The product is built with top-quality materials and comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty at an affordable price.

What We Like
Soft and comfortable grip
Super sticky 3M adhesive
Compatible with all types of boards
Beveled tail kick and center arch for better maneuverability and control
Affordable price and 1-year manufacturer's warranty
#TOP 8

One Ball Jay Neils Diamond Traction Pad

02209975129
Chrome
30mm x 15mm ea.
One Ball Jay Neils Diamond Traction Pad Cover
Oneballjay Neils Diamond Traction Pad

The One Ball Jay Diamond Pad offers a sturdy traction surface with its metal-shaped diamond design, providing you with excellent grip while surfing. The chrome plating adds a sleek look and extra durability to the pad, ensuring it stays strong through many sessions. Thanks to its waterproof build, you won’t have to worry about water damage affecting the pad’s performance. Plus, the permanent adhesive makes sure the pad stays firmly attached to your surfboard, giving you reliable support without slipping off during your ride.

What We Like
Durable metal diamond design
Chrome plated finish
Waterproof construction
Strong permanent adhesive
#TOP 9

Abahub EVA Foam Boat Decking Pad

SBD2502481601BK
Black
48''x16.8''-5.6sqft
Abahub EVA Foam Boat Decking Pad Cover
Abahub EVA Foam Boat Decking 48''x16'' Non-Slip Surfboard Traction Pad Grip Mat Self-Adhesive Trimmable Flooring Sheet for Boats SUP Board Kayak Surfing Black

The Abahub EVA Deck Pad offers a thick 6mm foam surface that cushions your feet while protecting your boat or board from scratches. Its material handles heat, water, and UV rays well, making it durable for outdoor use. You can easily trim the pad to fit any size or shape using a sharp knife, and its strong adhesive keeps it securely in place. Plus, the textured surface helps water drain away and gives you a safe, non-slip grip whether your board or boat is wet or dry. Cleaning is simple too—just sweep or vacuum to keep it looking fresh.

What We Like
Durable EVA foam material
Customizable size and shape
Strong self-adhesive backing
Non-slip, water-draining surface
Easy to clean and maintain
#TOP 10

Ho Stevie! Premium Surfboard Traction Pad

tracpad
Black
Ho Stevie! Premium Surfboard Traction Pad Cover
Ho Stevie! Premium Surfboard Traction Pad - Foot Won't Slip - 3 Piece, Full Size, Maximum Grip, Strongest 3M Adhesive

The Ho Stevie! Surfboard Grip Pad offers excellent traction to keep your feet firmly planted while you ride. Its strong 3M adhesive ensures the pad stays securely attached to your board, giving you confidence in every move. The pad is designed to be very grippy, preventing slips, yet soft enough to protect your knees, especially if you surf in boardshorts. Measuring a full 12 by 12 inches when all three pieces are arranged together, it provides a generous surface area for a comfortable and stable grip. This pad is perfect if you want reliable performance and comfort on your surfboard.

What We Like
Strong 3M adhesive
Excellent foot traction
Soft on knees
Full-size coverage
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do traction pads work on surfboards?

Traction pads are not necessary for riding a surfboard, but many surfers prefer using them. In the past, surfers relied solely on surf wax, which is effective. However, traction pads offer advantages such as improved grip and other benefits.

2. Why use a surfboard tail pad?

Surfboard tail pads provide maximum grip and eliminate the need for waxing the surfboard before each use. They enhance performance, making it easier to stand up quickly, plant your foot securely, and improve your overall stance while surfing.

3. Are traction pads worth it?

While traction pads are not essential for surfing, they offer several benefits. These include improved grip, increased comfort, and the ability to perform advanced maneuvers. Ultimately, the decision to use a traction pad depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the surfer.

4. Is traction pads better than wax?

Traction pads, such as Van Der Waal front pads, have advantages over wax. They are thin, lightweight, easy to apply, and durable. However, the choice between using traction pads or wax still depends on personal preference. Wax provides a stickier grip and may be preferred by some surfers.

5. Should I get a stomp pad for my surfboard?

Using a traction pad or stomp pad on your surfboard is not necessary but can offer benefits like improved grip, comfort, and the ability to perform advanced maneuvers. Whether or not to use a stomp pad ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the surfer.

6. Is a tail pad better than wax?

Choosing between a tail pad and wax comes down to personal preference. If you already use wax and are satisfied with its stickiness, a tail pad may not offer significant advantages. However, tail pads provide improved grip and eliminate the need for frequent waxing, making them a convenient option for some surfers.

Editor's Notes

During our surfboard traction pad research, we found 24 surfboard traction pad products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 11,848 customer reviews through our big data system to write the surfboard traction pads list. We found that most customers choose surfboard traction pads with an average price of $21.31.

The surfboard traction pads are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of surfboard traction pads, including Dakine, Crab Grab, Surf Squared, Santa Barbara Surfing, Abahub. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.