Surf Traction Pad and Grips
Traction pads/deck grips/tail pads are a crucial feature in the higher performance end of the surfing spectrum for a few reasons, all relating to helping you turn but they also serve a purpose for beginners. In terms of performance the grip they provide is stable, as in, regardless of how much lateral force you place on the pad, the grip won't shift like wax can. Furthermore the raised/arch bar in the center of the paid gives you something to push and pull against, giving you more lateral force which means harder turns and more effective pumping. Another sneak benefit is they help you plant your foot in the right place without looking, simply feel where you foot lands and adjust accordingly. That is all assuming you've placed your deck grip in the right place, which on a thruster is centered laterally and longitudinally speaking you want the rear arch bar/riser to begin at the leading edge of your rear fin - same with quads - but there is a personal preference element to that too, you'll figure it out. 
