My favorite is the one sold by Gong. It is as thick as 3M Helicopter tape, but a bit stiffer, so it spreads the impact forces a bit better.
Its smooth surface prevents abrasive wear on the paddle blade.
3M Helicopter tape is still better for sharp curves (paddle blades, very thin rails) as it is more supple to fit on tight curves.
However, I think it is kind of a generic product, and it should be nowadays similar to most rail savers on the market (such as the ION one I guess), except maybe the ultra-cheap ones.
I only put it in the 3' (80 to 90cm) from the nose, at it is where I hit the rails.
Plus I thus do not have the feeling of the rail tape under my hands when grabbing the board, which I dislike.
For this I use only 90cm of the rail saver, that I split diagonally to get 2 pieces that become narrower towards the nose.
Tips:
- I round the corners
- I try to never touch the glue with my fingers. When applying it I keep the backing tape where I hold the rail tape
