Fashion or Function? Ballet Unveils No-Kick Traction 

When it comes to surf traction, the defining feature in any modern design has always been the kick and arch — a staple for control and stability.

So, when Ballet — the Australian-based, fashion-forward accessories brand — decided to release a grip pad without these essential elements, it left the Stab team scratching its heads. “Why would you remove the most important feature of a traction pad?” was the resounding sentiment around the office.

Rather than continuing to chirp amongst coworkers, I decided to give the man behind the signature pad a buzz — Los Angeles surfer/clothing designer Noah Collins. 

My first and most important question – Why?

For Noah, the answer was simple: personal preference. “Other than being super flat-footed, I just prefer little to nothing under my back foot,” he explains. “For me, it’s been either wax or a grip with no kick and no arch, which are really hard to find.”

Noah’s inspiration for the design came naturally. After receiving a batch of boards — some of which he rode without any traction pads — he realized he preferred the feel of a clean deck. That revelation led him to create the no-kick grip, a minimalist alternative that challenges the norm.

“I understand why people like using grips with kick and arch, especially if you’re doing airs, riding traditional thruster shortboards, or you’re just used to them. But I honestly think that all of those design elements are unnecessary for the way that I like to surf and for the boards that I like to ride,” Noah says. “I knew that having no kick or arch would probably freak some people out, but it’s just what I wanted.”

Upon watching the above edit, something interesting caught my eye — there are a few clips where Noah isn’t using traction at all. In seeing Noah as this perennial creative type, I couldn’t help but assume that this was intentional, a statement, a play on the no-kick design.

“I actually just didn’t have enough grips at the time,” Noah admits. “I only had like three samples when I went on those trips. But if you want to look at it symbolically, then yeah, it’s to show that having no grip at all and this no-kick grip can go hand-in-hand.”

So, what makes this traction pad stand out? Precisely what it lacks — no kick, no arch, no frills. “The idea for me was to get as close as I could to the feeling of not having a grip while still having one,” Noah explains.

While I’m not sure the conversation altered my personal traction preferences, I do appreciate that Noah and Ballet are doing traction their own way. For many, the no-kick grip might not be their first choice off the rack. But for those open to experimenting with their surf experience, the simplicity of Noah’s design might be that missing piece they’ve been looking for.

Check out the Ballet x Noah Collins Pro Pad and make the decision for yourself.