rail tape recommendations?

[Badger]

I don't like the way that RSPro rail tape chews at your paddles. It's too abrasive IMO. I'd very much like a less abrasive version.

I've been using RSP for years and my carbon Kialoa paddles show no sign of wear. My newer Sunova paddle is also undamaged.

I sometimes like to run my paddle along the rail just to hear the sound it makes.

I can't imagine anyone hitting the rail so much that it would actually chew up the paddle.

.

[covesurfer]

RSPro. Accept no substitutes. The stuff is versatile, protective and can be reused - switched from one board to another even. Outstanding products. It's on all of my standup boards, surf and downwind, and I am going to install the Hexa Traction pads on my prone long-board. I use it on my one man canoe rails as well.

They also make an outstanding paddle tape that goes on the edge of the blade. It is unobtrusive, extremely protective, durable and looks good. Unlike other blade protection, it won't mess up the paddle's fine edge.

Outstanding products and company. I get mine through North Shore Inc in Hood River. Fast shippers and good prices.

[eastbound]

just put rsp jumbo on my new board--protects the top rail edge a bit, too--i paddlewhack there, to, believe it or not. only downer is the stuff does weigh.

[krash]

Smooth or Dimpled ?? and Why ?

[Zooport]

I'm a cheapskate, so I use helicopter tape and it works fine.  RS Pro is better, but it's pricey, so helicopter is more economical. 

[Zooport]

Smooth or Dimpled ?? and Why ?

The dimpled offers more impact protection.

[viatormundi]

I have had RSPro on at least 6 boards of mine. It is an outstanding product. After 5 years of use, no sign of color change or deformation.

[anonsurfer]

I'm a cheapskate, so I use helicopter tape and it works fine.   

Same here.  I buy a 3ft strip of 4" wide 14mil helicopter tape for $12 and cut strips of varying width depending on where I am putting it on the board (usually 1/2-3/4" wide for the nose and tail rails and 1" wide for the center section of rail).

[socalgremmy]

Smooth or Dimpled ?? and Why ?

The dimpled offers more impact protection.

Where do you get it, Mike?
How wide and what thickness?

[socalgremmy]

just put rsp jumbo on my new board--protects the top rail edge a bit, too--i paddlewhack there, to, believe it or not. only downer is the stuff does weigh.

CS, are you going to use Hexa Traction on your entire long board or just the nose?
I have a new board and am searching for the best/lightest deck traction available. Is this a good idea to use instead of deck traction pad?
Where do you get it?
Thanks,
Bob

[Badger]

Smooth or Dimpled ?? and Why ?

The dimpled offers more impact protection.

Where do you get it, Mike?
How wide and what thickness?

JimK can get it for you and he'll give you a Zoner discount.

[krash]

OK I'm almost sold... I have a touring style board with rather thick rails, so I'm guessing the jumbos size is a better option.

When you SUP'rs say it has weight how much weight are we talking about compared to the helicopter tape option....
How much does the standard RSPro kit, (2 strips 6'3" x 2.5") weigh with backing removed ?
And how much more does the jumbo kit weigh ?

Where do I find a zoner discount order link ?

[Badger]

Just send JimK a PM or email and he'll take it from there. He might also know what it weighs.

I think the weight is pretty minimal myself.

[viatormundi]

I don't think the weight of the RSPro protections is an issue at all. Having couple of beers before paddling can be more of an issue of weight 

[coldsup]

Helicopter tape here too on all my boards...works very well.

You can't take it off and put on another board though...once it is on it is on!