Core and core composites.

The Core makes up the majority of the board and usually has the biggest effect on the feel and projection of the board. There are two basic types of foams, those that are extruded like a noodle and those that are beaded like blown popcorn. Most materials come in both extruded and beaded forms as well as a variety of densities with the lower densities being softer. These are some of the different materials available.

Polyethylene (PE):

The most common material used typically extruded: This is what the first bodyboard was made from. It's durable and usually cost less. The drawbacks are that it isn't as springy and light as some of the other newer materials available.

Arcel:

A blend of beaded polystyrene (PS) and PE. This material is stiffer than PE and because of the styrene is lighter. It also has more spring however because of the styrene it has a tendency to dent and while durable at first can actually break in half after over flexing the board a number of times.

Polypropylene (PP):

The best memory to weight ratio but is expensive and is slightly less durable than PE. Our new Energy CoreTM is a variation of this polymer.

Mesh:

A plastic screen like material generally added to PE to increase durability. Its drawback is that it increases weight.

Stringers:

Usually made from fiberglass or graphite. Stringers make a board very durable. The trade off can be a hindrance of projection by working against the core materials natural flex characteristics. In many cases stringers can also eventually work their way out of the core.