Are you an avid surfer? Are you the one who is eager to try this activity? Then, you probably know that choosing the right surfboard could be such a challenge.
So, let’s figure out together which type of surfboard foam to choose according to its main characteristics and your needs.
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Foam Types
Depending on the type, the foam influences buoyancy, density, flexibility levels, and some other types of characteristics. You ought to know which type of foam fits you best to make the right choice. The more convenient it would be, the more enjoyable and safe surfing you would perform.
Polyurethane (PU)
Polyurethane foam is one of the most popular types of materials to use in surfboards upholding its reputation for about the past 50 years. It provides quite nice flexibility, although it is getting worse over time as it absorbs water.
That is why if you accidentally damage the surfboard, you should be willing to get to shore and find a repair shop to fix it. Traditionally, this foam could be covered with either epoxy or polyester resin. The second one, unlike the first, is rather toxic and dangerous to work with.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
Today, you can see most surfboards in stores made with expanded polystyrene or, as it’s also called, Styrofoam. EPS is a lighter type of foam material, more buoyant and, due to being covered with epoxy resin, it becomes very durable.
Because it is rather difficult to form the shape of the blank, special machines usually perform that task. Though, this is not such a big problem in manufacturing surfboards. Additionally, EPS is the most recyclable and environmentally friendly type of foam which makes a great choice.
However, the disadvantage of it is less flexibility, which means that surfboards might be “harder”. As in case with PU, EPS absorbs water, and even faster, but new types of techniques are supposed to solve that problem.
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)
Extruded polystyrene foam can be considered the best type of foams. It differs from EPS by its closed celled structure so that it becomes a waterproof surfboard blank. Finally, you won’t have to worry about this trouble. It is more flexible than EPS and as strong as PU.
Apart from it, the foam is easy to form a shape and is laminated with epoxy resin. The only weak point of this type is the delamination of the surfboard because of its structure, although it may not happen if you use the right technique. Though, it is important to mention that you should try hard to damage such a blank.
What’s Your Choice?
Before making the decision, consider the density factor of every surfboard type. It is directly connected to its buoyancy, which is in charge of delightful performance on a surfboard.
The lightest surfboard is usually the easiest one for surfing but bear in mind that the durability of the foam is essential as well.