Normal vs Epoxy

What is the difference between epoxy vs normal surfboards? Epoxy is the resin. Many people call EPS or XTR foam surfboards epoxies but epoxy is actually the resin that is used to glass the foam blank. In comparison PU is laminated with polyester resin. PU was introduced in the 60's and immediately became a superior alternative to balsa wood for surfboard construction. EPS foam was created at around the same time but has become increasingly popular in surfboard construction in the last decade.

Polyurethane (PU) foam and expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam are two of the most commonly used materials in surfboard construction. Both materials have their pros and cons in terms of performance and environmental impact. PU boards use a wooden stringer running through the middle of the board to handle flex and provide strength. EPS boards use the same construction technique or can instead use carbon fiber strips placed along the deck and bottom of the board to control the flex of the board and also add strength.

EPS foam is often considered to be a more environmentally friendly option than PU foam because it has a lower carbon footprint. The production of EPS foam requires less energy than the production of PU foam. In terms of man hours however, EPS is harder to shape and takes longer to glass. EPS foam is created by expanding polystyrene beads with steam, while PU foam is created through a chemical reaction between two chemicals (a polyol and an isocyanate). The manufacturing process of PU foam generates more greenhouse gas emissions than EPS foam. PU foam residues are not recyclable unlike EPS. PU foam blanks are stronger and less flexible than EPS foam blanks, however polyester resin used on PU boards is semi-strong compared to very strong epoxy resin used on EPS boards. A PU board with the same glassing job as an EPS board will be lighter and stronger. The EPS boards of modern pro surfers though use less epoxy resin when glassing giving them even lower weight but the same chances of breaking like a normal PU board. Epoxy resin is up to 3 times more expensive than polyester resin, glassers also charge more to glass an EPS board because of the added labor time to complete the job. These factors increase the cost of EPS surfboard production vs PU.

In terms of performance, both EPS and PU foam surfboards have their strengths and weaknesses. EPS foam is much lighter than PU, making it a great option for surfers that love to perform aerials. Lighter boards are easier to whip around quickly. The extra sensitivity on EPS is a good build for progressive surfing on waves that let you perform quick, snappy maneuvers. They also float more, as if they sit a little more on top of the wave. This can be beneficial for generating speed faster, also making it easier to advance through flat sections. The combination of these factors makes EPS an excellent option for small wave boards. PU boards sit a little lower in the water due to the foam's weight and density, helping to keep the rail under. This gives the board a nice knifey feel when cutting through the wave's face and provides higher hold in hollow waves that is beneficial for barrel riding. Having a bit extra weight also helps the board to handle choppy conditions better and bounce less than it would on EPS.

In summary, EPS foam is generally considered to be a more environmentally friendly option than PU foam. Standard EPS foam surfboards are stronger, lighter and more buoyant than PU foam surfboards, making them ideal for small to medium wave surfing. However, PU foam surfboards are often preferred for bigger, more powerful waves. Both materials have their pros and cons, and the choice ultimately depends on the needs and preferences of the surfer.

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