I think deck pads are the way to go..and just wax in the nose area if you like to nose ride.

Deck pads are also much more comfee on your knees when climbing back on after a fall..and for knee paddling through some rough stuff.

Standing for long periods can make your feet hurt without a deck pad..also booties or Crocs can help..especially it you fall or jump off in shallow water where there's rocks.

Deck pads are not cheap but well worth it IMO....and that's my 2 cents worth..

DJ

Check out the Jimmy Lewis PADS. They have raised edges at the standing postion to help grip and balance. Will fit on any brand board.

i've been on the naish without the pads, only wax, and it is a pain, it starts melting under you feet and it is hard to heep stuck in one possition, you need to walk up and down the board, or just jump off and splash water all over it.
i would go for the pads

I find wax grippier, but you have to use tropical wax on SUP's. Your feet are warm,and the wax will slip if it get warm. Pads are easy and care free. I use a tail pad and tweo small foot pads for paddling, the rest of my board is wax.
JB

I could not find any deck-grip for my board..and one day came across a Nike yoga matt..and thought hmmmm..

Here's a couple of pics of my yoga mat deck grip.





It's been on for about 6 months now and works fine...and only cost $20..

It gives me enough grip and is as soft as a baby's bottom..

DJ