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Channel Islands Traction Pads: Built for Control

  • 04.30.2026

Choosing the right surfboard traction pad can completely change how your board feels under your feet. With so many options out there, it helps to understand what actually matters when selecting the best surfboard grip for your setup.

In this breakdown, Parker Coffin, Brent Power (Team Manager), and Todd Janda (CI Accessories Designer) walk through the Channel Islands traction range—focusing on the key details: grip feel, arch support, pad shape, and tail kick.

WHY CI TRACTION

Channel Islands surfboard traction pads are built with performance, comfort, and durability in mind—refined through direct feedback from team riders.

  • Made with Bio Grip (uses discarded waste to reduce landfill)
  • Premium 3M adhesive for long-lasting hold
  • Designed for consistent feel and performance in a wide range of conditions
  • Several arch and flat pad options to fit anyone’s preferences or needs

CHOOSING YOUR PAD

Finding the right surfboard grip pad comes down to a few key decisions:

Flat vs Arch

  • Flat = more freedom to move
  • Arch = more locked-in feel
  • Mega Kush Arch = softer, more comfortable, with added support

Grip Feel

  • Mixed Groove is our traditional, more aggressive grip (team favorite for performance surfing)
  • Thermo Press is a thinner, closer-to-board feel (ideal if you don’t usually ride a traction pad)

Shape

Think about how much of your tail you want covered and how your foot placement interacts with the pad. The right surfboard traction pad shape can influence control and responsiveness.

If you’re unsure where to start, signature pads from the team are a good reference point as they cover nearly all shapes and prefernces:

These designs cover a wide range of preferences and are built from real-world feedback.

Tail Kick

  • More aggressive = added leverage for turns and airs
  • More mellow = lower profile, more subtle feel

Finding the Right Setup

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to surfboard traction pads. The right setup depends on how you surf, how you move on your board, and the level of grip and control you’re after.

This range is designed to give you options. Whether you’re looking for maximum hold, a lighter feel, or the best all-around surfboard grip that fits any tail shape, we’ve got you.

Explore More

Find Channel Islands traction pads at your local surf shop or explore the full range here:
https://cisurfboards.com/collections/traction

  • 04.30.2026
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