Do You Need to Wax a New Snowboard?

We often get the question about whether you need to wax your newly purchased snowboard before the first time you ride it. We'll clarify that below. But first, a fundamental rule: Wax more often rather than less.

So, Do You Need It?
The answer to the question is both yes and no. Two main factors are important to consider: the type of base you have and how particular you are.

Are snowboards waxed from the factory?
All our snowboards come factory-waxed. The factory wax is a simple wax to prevent the base from drying out. It will work for your first days of riding, especially if you don't have high demands. However, consider waxing it after your second or third time riding for a better experience.

Sintered or Extruded Base
The type of base your snowboard has matters. There are usually two types of bases: sintered and extruded. A sintered base requires more maintenance and should be waxed regularly. The other type is an extruded base, which is easier to maintain and requires less upkeep.

How Particular Are You?
If you're used to having good speed and glide, it's recommended to wax the board before your first ride. On the other hand, if you're an inexperienced rider and have a board with an extruded base, you might not notice a significant difference if you wax the board before the first ride.

So, whether you need to wax your board before the first ride mainly depends on two factors: the type of base you have and how particular you are. But remember: Waxing and taking care of your snowboard prolongs its lifespan and enhances your riding experience. With that said, we'll conclude with the fundamental rule we started with…

It's better to wax more often than less.

Interested in learning how to wax your snowboard? Read our waxing guide!