In a controlled test of two identical boards—one made of traditional Polyurethane (PU) and one Expanded Polystyrene (EPS/Hi-Fi)—this comparison reveals how different construction materials affect performance in both a wave pool and the ocean. The results challenge common assumptions about stiffness and control.
Key Takeaways & Tips
EPS Feel
The EPS board is stiffer and lighter, creating a lively feel with more fling and bounceback. In a wave pool, this translated to a dynamic feel, but in the ocean, it felt a little bit sticky and off balance, sitting more on top of the water.
PU Feel
The PU board has a softer, more damp feel, settling better down in the water. This translated to an instant connection in the ocean, making the rider feel more connected and planted on the wave and providing more control.
Performance in Air
Surprisingly, PU performed better for landings in the air section of the wave pool, as its softer construction absorbed the landing better. The EPS, being stiffer, caused the rider to kind of bounce off or tip over on landings.
Turning and Flow
In the controlled environment of the wave pool, the PU felt a bit sticky and flat on the turns. The EPS, with its extra flex, delivered a preferred dynamic feeling on the flow and turns.
Ocean Performance
The PU board instantly connected with the wave in the ocean. The feeling of the water settling the PU board down, coupled with the ocean push, created a highly controlled and natural feel, reversing the pool results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming Universal Results
Assuming that performance results in a controlled environment like a wave pool will directly translate to the ocean. The interaction between the board’s momentum (PU) and the ocean’s energy is a separate, critical variable.
Mistaking Stiffer for Stable
Mistaking the stiffness of EPS for better stability in all conditions. While EPS has bounce, the softer PU construction proved more forgiving and stable for hard landings and turns in the ocean.