I've been playing with Sticky Bumps Wax for the front traction instead of a pad and I have to say I like it a lot better! More grip for sure!
Skim and surf boards don't really compare too much but if you want to do surface tricks like 360's, 720's, etc you can definitely do that on a surf board as well. If you want more info on a Soulcraft with pricing and specs for your size and boat PM me.