Epoxy surfboards have become increasingly popular among surfers of all skill levels due to their lightweight construction and durability. These boards are crafted using a unique process, beginning with a light polystyrene foam core, surrounded by high-density foam sheets, and reinforced with glass and epoxy resin. This advanced construction technique results in a surfboard that offers a perfect blend of buoyancy, strength, and performance.
Choosing the best epoxy surfboard for you can be a daunting task, especially with the wide variety of designs and features available in the market. As a potential buyer, you need to consider the various aspects of your surfing style, such as your skill level, the type of waves you ride, and your personal preferences when it comes to board dimensions and design. To make an informed decision, it’s essential to understand the advantages and characteristics of epoxy surfboards, as well as how they differ from their traditional counterparts, such as polyester or polyurethane boards.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of epoxy surfboards and provide you with insights on how these boards are made, their advantages, and key factors to consider when choosing the best epoxy surfboard for your needs. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect epoxy board that will enhance your surfing experience.
4 Benefits of an Epoxy Surfboard
Light
Epoxy surfboards are lighter than traditional polyurethane surfboards, making them easier for you to carry and maneuver in the water. This lightweight quality is due to the use of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam in their core, which also results in increased buoyancy. The enhanced buoyancy allows you to paddle with less effort and catch more waves, especially for beginners.
Resistance and Durability
With epoxy resin being up to 35% stronger than the polyester resin used in polyurethane surfboards, epoxy surfboards offer increased resistance and durability. They are less prone to dings and cracks, making them an excellent choice for surfers who often surf in rocky areas or those who are beginners still learning the ropes. Additionally, they tend to be less prone to waterlogging, ensuring your board maintains its performance and shape for longer.
Tricks and Performance
When it comes to performance, the stiffness of epoxy surfboards can be an advantage. They tend to be more responsive, giving surfers a snappy and lively feel when executing turns and maneuvers. Although not every surfer prefers this level of responsiveness, many find that the rigidity of epoxy boards allows for better performance in smaller waves and mushy conditions, enabling you to perform tricks and surf with increased speed and agility.
Adaptability
Epoxy surfboards can adapt to various surfing conditions and are suitable for both beginner and professional surfers. The buoyancy, light weight, and durability make them a popular choice for beginners, as they can effortlessly paddle and catch more waves. In contrast, professional surfers may benefit from the responsiveness epoxy boards offer when tackling challenging waves. Additionally, epoxy surfboards are more environmentally friendly than traditional polyurethane surfboards due to the use of EPS foam and epoxy resin, making them a sustainable choice for eco-conscious surfers.
What Are Epoxy Surfboards Made Of
Epoxy surfboards are created using a combination of EPS foam and epoxy resin, which results in a strong and durable construction. This type of surfboard has significantly lower emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the manufacturing process in comparison to traditional polyester resin-based surfboards.
Common Constructions for Most Epoxy Surfboard
Expanded Polystyrene Foam (EPS) and Epoxy Resin
One popular method to construct an epoxy surfboard is to use expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) as the core, and then cover it with epoxy resin. This combination provides excellent durability and performance characteristics, while maintaining a lightweight and buoyant feel for the surfer. EPS foam is an open-cellular material that offers high levels of buoyancy and is lighter in weight compared to traditional polyurethane foam.
Polyurethane Foam (PU) and Fiberglass
Although not considered a true epoxy surfboard, some surfers might use the traditional construction method consisting of polyurethane foam (PU) for the core, covered by fiberglass cloth and polyester resin. This option tends to be less durable and emit more VOCs during production, but can still offer decent performance depending on the individual surfer’s preferences and abilities.
Carbon Wrap Technology
A more cutting-edge approach to surfboard construction is the utilization of carbon wrap technology. This method incorporates a stringerless blank, strategically placing carbon bands on and around the board. By wrapping these carbon strips around specific areas of the board, surfers experience a sensation of increased “pop” and responsiveness when riding waves.
Hydroflex 3D Glassing
Another innovative technique for surfboard construction is Hydroflex 3D glassing. This method essentially eliminates the possibility of the skin (fiberglass and resin) de-laminating from the core (foam). The skin is anchored into the core rather than merely sitting on top, resulting in a highly durable and long-lasting board.
As you explore the different constructions available for epoxy surfboards, consider factors such as durability, weight, buoyancy, and your personal preferences and abilities as a surfer. Keep in mind that modern advancements in surfboard construction, like carbon wrap technology and Hydroflex 3D glassing, can offer additional performance benefits and improved longevity for your board.
Best Epoxy Surfboards
Best High-Performance Shortboard: Happy Every Day Spine-Tek EPS
Happy Every Day Spine-Tek EPS is a high-performance shortboard known for its consistent flex pattern and maneuverability. The deep single concave transitions into a double at the back, making it fast and highly responsive. This lively board is perfect for the surfer seeking a high-performance option that comes close to a one-board quiver.
Best Epoxy Surfboard for Speed: Firewire Slater Designs Sci-Fi 2.0 Lft
Inspired by the original Sci-Fi board, the Firewire Slater Designs Sci-Fi 2.0 LFT excels in speed and maneuverability. The wide point positioned forward of center allows you to surf the board 1″ smaller than the original model. This board is perfect for surfers who want to combine powerful carves with lightning-fast rotations.
Best Epoxy Surfboard for Beginners: Rocket Wide Spine-Tek Eps
Ideal for beginners transitioning to a shortboard or advanced surfers in less-than-perfect wave conditions, the Rocket Wide Spine-Tek EPS board is renowned for its forgiving nature. Designed by Britt Merrick and Dane Gauduskas, the epoxy Spine-Tek construction improves performance, making the board 25% better than traditional polyurethane surfboards.
Best Epoxy Surfboard for Surfing: Hayden Shapes Hypto Krypto Epoxy Surfboard
The Hayden Shapes Hypto Krypto Epoxy Surfboard is a versatile option, perfect for a range of wave conditions. Shaped by Hayden Christensen, this popular design features a stringer-less parabolic carbon fiber construction, providing a solid flex pattern and durability. Suitable for small beach breaks to pumping Indo reefs, this board caters to most surfers’ needs.
Best Epoxy Surfboard for Small Wave Performance: Haydenshapes the Untitled & Futureflex Epoxy
Haydenshapes’ Untitled & Futureflex Epoxy surfboard is perfectly crafted for small wave performance. Its unique design provides exceptional responsiveness and durability perfect for conquering small waves with ease.
Best Epoxy Surfboard for Advanced Surfers: Firewire Hi4 Thunderbolt Black Tech
For advanced surfers, the Firewire HI4 Thunderbolt Black Tech is an excellent option. This performance longboard is suitable for various wave conditions and features sturdy epoxy construction for enhanced durability.
Best for Small Waves: Puddle Jumper Pro Lightspeed Epoxy
The Puddle Jumper Pro Lightspeed Epoxy is a versatile option for surfers looking to excel in small waves. Designed by Nate Yeomans, this board has a deep single concave that transitions to a double concave with a vee in the tail, providing a forgiving yet powerful ride.
Best Value for Money: Stcy Master Killer Phantom Phlex Epoxy
For surfers on a budget, the STCY Master Killer Phantom Phlex Epoxy offers the best value for money. Designed by Lee Stacey, this everyday surfboard is perfect for wave conditions between 2 and 6ft.
How to Store an Epoxy Surfboard
On a Rack
To store your epoxy surfboard, it’s essential to use a rack specifically designed for surfboards. This helps prevent any damage to the board’s deck, nose, or tail. Ensure that the rack is installed correctly and securely to provide the best support for your surfboard. When placing the surfboard on the rack, make sure to keep the rails, tail, and nose off the hard ground at all times.
Storage Tips
Following these storage tips will help prolong the lifespan of your epoxy surfboard and maintain its performance:
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat: Exposure to extreme temperature fluctuations can cause structural damage, fade colors, or weaken adhesives. Store your surfboard in a cool, shaded area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Never leave your surfboard in a car: The temperature inside a car can quickly rise, causing damage to your surfboard. Always remove it from your vehicle after use.
- Wash with fresh water after each session: Rinsing your epoxy surfboard with fresh water after every use removes salt, sand, and other debris that may degrade the board’s surface and affect its performance.
- Remove wax periodically: Wax buildup can cause performance issues and make future wax applications more challenging. Regularly remove wax from your surfboard to maintain its performance.
- Use a protective board bag: A high-quality board bag shields your surfboard from scratches, UV rays, and moisture during storage and transportation. This helps maintain your board’s integrity and makes it easier for shapers to provide ding repairs if necessary.
- Consider recyclable materials: Some epoxy surfboards incorporate recyclable materials in their construction, making them more eco-friendly. Be mindful of the materials used in your board for a more sustainable surfing experience.
By following these storage tips and using a suitable rack, you can keep your epoxy surfboard in top condition, ensuring it performs well and lasts for years to come.
Best Epoxy Surfboard Brands
Happy Every Day
The Happy Every Day surfboard is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a board that offers the best of both worlds. Its design bridges the gap between high-performance shortboards such as the Two Happy and step-down/grovelers like the Rocket Wide. This board caters to surfers aiming for high-performance surfing on an everyday basis.
Firewire
Firewire Surfboards, established in 2005 by Nev Hyman and Bert Burger, is committed to enhancing the surfing experience through innovative designs, new materials, and advanced construction techniques. Their boards are eco-friendly, made from sustainable materials, and highly regarded by many surfers for their performance and quality.
Channel Islands
Since 1969, Channel Islands Surfboards has been steadfast in the pursuit of excellence through innovation and originality. Known for their groundbreaking designs and superior quality, they continue to be a top choice for both professional surfers and enthusiasts alike.
Haydenshapes
Hayden Cox founded Haydenshapes Surfboards with the vision of creating innovative designs that would appeal to some of the best surfers globally. This brand has earned a reputation for excellence in the industry and garnered high praise from those who ride their boards.
Lost Surfboards
Lost Surfboards, established by Matt Biolos in 1985, has gained a global following for their cutting-edge designs, which cater to progressive free surfers and those on the competitive circuit. The brand’s surfboards are designed to withstand the rigors of high-performance surfing, making them a popular choice for those in pursuit of the perfect board.
STCY
STCY surfboards offer a variety of models to suit your needs, including the Lone Wolf, Lab Rat II, Zombie Rat, Master Killer, and more. With numerous designs and color options available, STCY ensures its customers have access to top-notch epoxy surfboards to enhance their surfing experience.
Choosing the best epoxy surfboard depends on your surfing style, skill level, and personal preference. With brands like Happy Every Day, Firewire, Channel Islands, Haydenshapes, Lost Surfboards, and STCY, you can find an epoxy surfboard that meets your specific needs and performance requirements.