Summary of Reddit Comments on Snowboard Wax

Reasons for Waxing

Wax when the board feels slow or there are white-ish streaks along the edges.
Waxing criteria include wanting a break for maintenance, feeling dull edges, or changing weather conditions.
Frequency of waxing varies depending on conditions, with some waxing every 5 days on the snow or every 2-3 days.
Waxing helps maintain board speed and performance, especially in abrasive conditions like man-made or icy snow.
Pros: Boosts speed, protects the base from scratches, easy and cheap.
Cons: Can make a mess, time-consuming, may require multiple tools.

Recommended tools include an iron, scraper, P-tex, brushes, and different waxes for various conditions.
Waxing can be done with basic equipment like a cheap clothes iron, scraper, and block of wax.
Methods include ironing the wax onto the board, using infrared wax machines, or belt waxing.
Proper application involves heating the wax to saturate the base for improved glide performance.
Excess wax can be removed through thorough scraping and polishing.
Note: Factory wax may need additional hand waxing for better performance.

Recommended wax brands include Purl Wax for its durability and affordability.
Kits like the Purl Ultimate Speed Kit provide all necessary tools for waxing.
Basic kit essentials include an iron, scraper, 3M pad, and wax for effective waxing.
Consider investing in a quality iron, brushes, vices, and different waxes for better results.
Specialized tools like gummy stones can help remove burrs from edges.

Beware of using fluoro waxes due to potential health risks like PFAS exposure.
Regular waxing is essential for maintaining board health, speed, and performance.
Knowing the base type (sintered or extruded) influences the waxing process.
It's important to scrape excess wax thoroughly for optimal board performance.
Sandboarding can be a fun alternative to snowboarding but requires different considerations.

By following these guidelines and tips, snowboarders can maintain their boards effectively, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.