The products I reviewed were the “Launch” traction pad, "Quick Strip” wax remover,and "Fat Pack" Backpack.
Traction pads can be quite useful to new and old surfers alike because they offer waxless grip with added contours to give you that extra confidence when you need it most. The “Launch” pad from Poorboy offers a heel arch as well as a protruding kick-tail on this light-weight one-piece pad.
I have no problem letting my readers know that this pad is a blast. I rode the “launch” pad in three straight sessions and noticed a definite advantage over just wax. For me, it wasn’t the launch kick-tail but rather the arch that wedges under the ball of your foot that really bolsters confidence all along the wave riding process. From bottom turns to cutbacks, the grippy lump gives you that edge when you need it most. Beginners could really benefit from this advantage in the early process in standing and turning just as advanced surfers who are looking for that extra inch of grip when landing an air or recovering from a layback snap would could also enjoy its effects.
Next up from Poorboy I tried the “Fat Pack” backpack. Even now as an adult, I am still a backpack wearing surfer. Nothing holds towels, wax, and sunscreen more conveniently while carrying a board. The “Fat Pack,” however, has some added features beyond the basic big pocket, small pocket configuration.
The “Fat Pack” is specially designed to perfectly fit a laptop computer with a handy-dandy side entry zipper. Additionally, this pack has a snug fit with an optional chest strap to create a snug fit and keep that precious cargo from shaking around. Another feature I enjoyed includes the CD Player pocket complete with a port for headphone wires, so you can get your flow on while keeping your hands free. Its roomy side pouches are perfect for wax, a cell phone, or anything else and the mesh pocket is perfect for keeping your drink close at hand.
The “Fat Pack” has served me well heading to work, the workout room, and the beach. Since I wear many hats in my life, I found this backpack from Poorboy functional for students, writers, parents, teachers, and surfers alike.
Lastly, I tested Poorboy’s citrus-based “Quickstrip” wax remover. Available in a 2 ounce and 4 ounce spray bottle, “Quickstrip” is less a wax remover and more of a board preparation formula. In fact, you must remove most of the wax yourself (via a wax comb or other implement). However, it is very helpful in preparing your deck for ding repair, traction strips, and a new coat of wax. I used “Quick Strip” prior to applying the “Launch” pad and found it provided a completely clean surface.
Poorboy also offers accessory packs complete with traction pad, wax, and leash, which would make a perfect gift for a beginning surfer.
I found Poorboy to feature quality products at a competitive cost. I ordered my products online and received them in about three days.
