Surf Talk Guru

What are the differences between balsa surfboards and foam surfboards? Balsa boards have traditionally been more expensive, but due to cheaper materials and manufacturing processes, that’s no longer the case. Now you can find balsa and fiberglass boards side by side for the same price.

People who prefer balsa boards maintain that the superior stiffness of balsa results in better turns and more drive through mushy waves. The stiffness also makes the board easier to paddle, as they glide through water instead of getting pushed back over and over. A good analogy of this issue is that it’s like the difference between paddling a canoe and a rubber raft. As far as flotation and water intake, balsa and foam are the same. Balsa’s stiffness also improves board durability because they don’t flex and bend like a foam board. The boards are a few pounds heavier than foam, but some people say this helps you get more speed and bite into the surface of the water.

People who prefer foam boards like the fact that they are lightweight and flexible. This allows them to rip turns and perform at a higher level. The reason for the switch to foam was that it was easier to obtain materials for and shape than balsa or other woods. Foam boards remain easier to repair and glass than balsa boards. Balsa boards don’t come in shortboard sizes. Longboard and gun riders might have an option between balsa and foam, but shortboarders won’t find a good performance 6′0″ available in balsa.