Author Topic: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?  (Read 9605 times)

Zooport

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Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« on: December 25, 2013, 10:42:59 AM »
I was in an SUP shop looking at the tape you stick to your rails to protect them from your paddle.  It looks very similar to me to the adhesive back non-slip tape you stick to bathtubs to keep you from slipping.  Both kind of spongy, adhesive back tape.  The rail saver stuff was $39 at the shop and the bathtub stuff is $9 at the hardware store.  Is there any reason why one could not use bathtub stuff to protect their rails?  
« Last Edit: December 25, 2013, 11:24:33 AM by WaterOnTheBrain »
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Weasels wake

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #1 on: December 25, 2013, 12:04:45 PM »
The texture could slow your board down, especially on a wave.
And, your paddle might not like you anymore.
It takes a quiver to do that.

Zooport

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #2 on: December 25, 2013, 02:12:15 PM »
Not talking about the sandpaper kind, like on a skateboard.  There is a soft rubber kind that has minimal texture, not enough to affect wave performance. 
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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #3 on: December 25, 2013, 06:32:59 PM »
That's what I have on the rear bumper of my van, it's all rubber and water proof, works great for keeping me on the rear bumper while loading stuff up on top.  I've also placed it on the deck of a windsurfing board of mine (flat water only), works great for traction, but I wouldn't want to fall on it.
But hea, give it a try, I won't be one to say "no".
It takes a quiver to do that.

Zooport

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #4 on: December 25, 2013, 07:47:18 PM »
So I would be well advised to cough up the extra $ and get the real deal.  The cheapskate within me is screaming. 
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mrbig

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #5 on: December 25, 2013, 11:25:35 PM »
Helicopter tape. See old thread. Be careful out there!
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linter

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #6 on: December 26, 2013, 03:53:42 AM »
helicopter tape ain't cheap either, plus it is hell to work with, in my experience.  i say, go for the tub tape and report back.  i'm in need of some protection too!

mrbig

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #7 on: December 26, 2013, 04:27:37 AM »
Easiest stuff in the world to work with. Spray the tape and the board with warm soapy water before applying. You have time to slide it exactly where you want and squeegee all bubbles, warts, and such out. Just like putting transfers on race cars, or window films in a surf shop. Check out the new windows at the Pump House Surf Shop in Orleans next time you visit Creek. Doubting Thomas types go to Blue Planet Surf and watch their fantastic video on installing helicopter tape as I described!
« Last Edit: December 26, 2013, 05:06:31 AM by mrbig »
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Zooport

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #8 on: December 26, 2013, 06:55:13 AM »
Sorry to be obtuse, but what is helicopter tape?
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mrbig

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #9 on: December 26, 2013, 07:29:38 AM »
poly tape designed to protect blades of helicopters from chipping. bike racers use it to protect frames. most commercial rail protection products use it. 30 foot roll 2" wide $35 at amazonia..
Let it come to you..
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linter

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #10 on: December 26, 2013, 08:30:11 AM »
I used that vid to teach me what to do. Did not help that much. Prolly just me.


Zooport

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #12 on: December 26, 2013, 08:32:34 PM »
Here's a link to the stuff I use. Works great. - http://www.jegs.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/KeywordSearchCmd?storeId=10001&catalogId=10002&langId=-1&Ntk=all&Jnar=0&Ne=1%2B2%2B3%2B13%2B1147708&searchTerm=555-75021

Perfect!  Just bought some on your recommendation.  Only $9 more than the bathtub stuff and $18 cheaper than the SUP shop.  Thanks!
« Last Edit: December 26, 2013, 08:34:59 PM by WaterOnTheBrain »
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TonyGring

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #13 on: December 26, 2013, 10:02:51 PM »
Seriously??   I don't want Nothing on the rail of my board. I do have some car door protecter molding on my Methane Kialoha paddle ( No ill effects whatsoever) .   I say,  leave the board alone.    Learn to keep paddle off the rail. Put molding on paddle just on case.

Zooport

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Re: Bathtub non-slip tape to protect rails?
« Reply #14 on: December 27, 2013, 03:53:29 PM »
This stuff has no impact on the performance of the board.  It is very low profile.  If it weren't, I would agree with you.  When I'm stroking really hard for a critical wave, I don't want to be worrying about keeping my paddle from hitting my board.  Too much else to think about. 

I have the paddle edge stuff on my paddle too.  I like it, but it does add a noticeable amount of swing weight.  Once again, worth it though.
8'6 Soul Compass
9'1 Sunova Creek
9'6 WaveStorm SUP
9'8 Starboard Element

 


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