While some snowboarders prefer to just cruise down the mountain, others enjoy the obstacles of the terrain park. Rails remain a staple in the terrain park and often have a metallic or fiberglass construction. Contrary to popular belief, you don't actually have to apply wax to the snowboard rail. However, you will have to wax the bottom of your snowboard to ensure a smooth slide.
Compounds
The best types of wax will protect the bottom of your snowboard while sliding rails. During the early days of the sport, snowboarders would wax their boards with paraffin candles before sliding a rail. As of 2011, top of the line snowboarding wax has been designed with fluorocarbons for increased performance. Some of the best types of snowboarding wax feature an environmentally friendly design made from soy and other natural materials, according to 360 Guide.
Temperature Wax
Snowboard companies manufacture different types of wax to accommodate the various types of riding conditions. Applying the wrong type of wax to your snowboard will cause you to stick while sliding across the rail. According to the experts at REI, snowboarding wax has been color coded to aid in the application process. Waxes designed for sliding rails in cold temperatures often have a blue or purple design. Apply a yellow or red wax when snowboarding in warm conditions.
Universal Wax
Universal snowboard wax allows you to slide rails in both warm and cold climates. Universal types of snowboarding wax are often made of hydrocarbons, according to Mechanics of Sport. Melt the universal wax onto the bottom of your board using a hot iron before sliding a rail. Once applied, the universal wax creates a protective barrier that blocks out dirt and moisture. The universal wax helps to reduce friction and offers a smooth slide on rails and ledges.
Hardness
Choosing the right hardness of wax will prevent your snowboard from catching an edge during the rail slide. Hard waxes create more friction and remain ideal for riding the terrain park in colder conditions. Apply a softer wax to the bottom of your board when attempting a rail slide in a warmer climate. Universal waxes often have a medium amount of hardness. Waxes with a medium hardness have been designed for all types of snow conditions.
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