Polyester vs. Epoxy Resin: What's the Difference in Surfboard Glassing?

Hey there, surfers! If you're here, you're probably looking to get a new surfboard and wondering about the best materials to go for. At One Revolver Surfboards, we get asked a lot about the difference between polyester resin and epoxy resin when it comes to glassing a surfboard. So, let's dive in and break it down for you.

Polyester Resin

What is Polyester Resin? Polyester resin has been the go-to for surfboard glassing for decades. It's what you find on most traditional surfboards. The familiarity and established history of polyester resin make it a trusted choice among many surfers, especially those who love the classic feel of a traditional board.

Benefits & Advantages:

1. Cost-Effective: Polyester resin is usually cheaper than epoxy, making it a budget-friendly option. For surfers who are just starting out or those who need to stick to a budget, polyester resin offers an affordable way to get a quality board without breaking the bank.

2. Classic Feel: Boards glassed with polyester resin have that classic flex and feel that many surfers love. The resin gives the board a certain responsiveness and liveliness in the water, which is why many traditionalists and old-school surfers prefer it. There's something about the way a polyester board cuts through the water that feels just right.

3. Quick to Repair: If you ding your board, polyester resin repairs are usually straightforward and quick. You can often fix minor dings and cracks yourself with a simple repair kit, which is convenient if you're traveling or away from a professional repair shop.

Disadvantages:

1. Durability: Polyester resin tends to be more prone to dings and cracks compared to epoxy. It can yellow over time, especially if exposed to a lot of sun. This means you might have to repair your board more often, and it might not look as pristine after a few seasons of heavy use.

2. Environmental Impact: Polyester resin is more harmful to the environment, both in production and disposal. The production process involves the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants. Additionally, disposing of polyester resin boards can be problematic as they are not biodegradable.

3. Weight: Polyester boards tend to be a bit heavier, which might not be ideal for everyone. The added weight can affect your performance, especially if you're into high-performance surfing or need to carry your board over long distances.

Epoxy Resin

What is Epoxy Resin? Epoxy resin is a newer technology in the surfboard world and has gained popularity for its strength and lightweight properties. Epoxy resin offers an innovative alternative to traditional materials, appealing to surfers looking for enhanced durability and performance.

Benefits & Advantages:

1. Durability: Epoxy resin is more resistant to dings and cracks. It’s less likely to yellow over time, maintaining its look longer. This durability means fewer repairs and a longer lifespan for your board, making it a great investment for serious surfers.

2. Lightweight: Boards glassed with epoxy are lighter, which can be a huge advantage for performance, especially in smaller waves. A lighter board is easier to maneuver, allowing for quicker turns and more agility on the wave. This can be particularly beneficial for surfers who enjoy aerial maneuvers and other high-performance tricks.

3. Eco-Friendlier: Epoxy resins are generally less harmful to the environment, both in terms of production and when it comes time to dispose of an old board. The production process emits fewer VOCs and other pollutants, and some epoxy resins are even made with bio-based materials, reducing their environmental footprint.

4. Compatibility with EPS: If you choose an EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam core for your surfboard, you have to use epoxy resin. Polyester resin reacts chemically with EPS, causing it to melt and deteriorate. Epoxy resin, on the other hand, is safe to use with EPS foam and provides excellent adhesion, making it the go-to choice for these types of boards.

Disadvantages:

1. Cost: Epoxy resin is typically more expensive, both for the material and the labor involved. The higher cost can be a barrier for some surfers, especially those who are just starting out or need to replace their board frequently.

2. Feel: Some surfers feel that epoxy boards are too stiff and don't have the same flex and feedback as polyester boards. The rigidity of epoxy can result in a different ride experience, which might not suit everyone’s style. It can feel less responsive, and some surfers miss the familiar flex of a polyester board.

3. Repair Complexity: Fixing an epoxy board can be trickier and sometimes more expensive than repairing a polyester board. Epoxy repairs often require specialized materials and techniques, which can be challenging if you're not near a professional repair shop.

So, Which One is Better?

It really comes down to personal preference and what you’re looking for in a surfboard. If you’re all about that classic surf feel and want to save a bit of cash, polyester resin might be your best bet. But if you’re after a lighter, more durable board and are willing to spend a bit more, epoxy resin could be the way to go.

At One Revolver Surfboards, we craft both polyester and epoxy boards, so you can get exactly what you want. Ready to put a deposit down on your custom dream board? Visit us at One Revolver Surfboards and let’s make it happen! We're all about Shaping Dreams, One Board at a Time.

Whether you're catching your first wave or your thousandth, choosing the right material for your board can make all the difference. So, take your time, weigh the pros and cons, and get the board that best fits your surfing style and needs.

See you in the surf!