When I compare EPS and EPP in board production, the difference is not simply about which foam is stronger. Their cost, weight, shaping, and final use are quite different.
EPS: The Mainstream Choice
EPS is still the most common foam we use for surfboards and many softboards. It is light, easy to shape, and available in different densities.
In our production, around 30 kg/m³ EPS is commonly used for rigid surfboards, while around 25 kg/m³ is often used for softboards. This keeps the board relatively light while also making the construction suitable for large-volume production.
EPP: Mainly for Better Bodyboards
EPP is much more resistant to impact and repeated compression than EPS. It also recovers better after being compressed, which gives it an advantage in products that receive a lot of impact.
In the current board market, I mainly see EPP being used in better-quality and higher-end bodyboards. For these boards, the higher material cost and weight are easier to justify because durability and compression recovery are more important.
EPP is not a replacement for EPS across the surfboard market. Its use is still quite limited compared with EPS.
How I Compare Them
| EPS | EPP | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lower | Higher |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Shaping | Easier | More difficult |
| Impact resistance | Good | Very good |
| Compression recovery | Limited | Better |
| Main board use | Surfboards, softboards | Better bodyboards |
From my manufacturing experience, EPS is still the practical choice for most surfboards and softboards. EPP makes more sense when the product is positioned higher and the extra cost is justified by better impact resistance and durability.
