How to Remove a surf Traction Pad and replace it

Replacing a surf traction pad can be a tedious task if you don’t know how to do it. Following these steps will help you do it quickly and efficiently.

Step by Step Guide:

The quickest way to remove an old surf traction pad or a portion of it.

Gather the tools: Hairdryer, razor blade or cutter, solvent (Essence F, lighter fluid, De-solv-it, or Goo gone), paper towels, and soapy water.
Soften the glue by warming the pad with a hairdryer. Keep the heat low to avoid delaminating the board.
If the pad won’t peel off easily, use a razor blade or cutter to slice the glue.
Clean the surface of any residue from the glue. Soak paper towels with solvent and place them on the area with glue for 15-30 minutes in an open space.
Wipe off the residue with the soaked paper towels and clean the surface with soapy water.
Wait 24 hours for the surface to dry and for any solvent byproducts to evaporate.
Clean the surface with a dry paper towel.
Place the new traction pad on the cleaned surface.

Additional information: You can find Essence F in stores that sell white spirit (mineral spirit) and acetone which can also serve as a solvent but may harm your surfboard. A safer alternative is to use lighter fluid, De-Solv-it, or Goo gone.

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If you need any surfing equipment, have a look at our performant and accessible Fins , Traction Pads, and Leashes, we deliver worldwide!