Wooden handboards are by nature heavier, hence the reason full-length surfboards are constructed from either Polyurethane or Epoxy. Other than the weight the Epoxy and to a slightly lesser extent the Urethane boards have far more buoyancy than their wood counterparts. This is because the inner core is foam. So what does this mean to your ride? With an epoxy board, the lightness and Buoyancy will allow for greater speed, lift, and agility than a wooden board. More speed, because you are not weighed down by the bulk. More buoyancy allows you to push down on the board even at a slower speed and not sink and more agility because the lightness means the boards are easier to control in maneuvers.
For further reading check out our Blog on bodysurfing gear →
for more info on how to pick the board that's perfect for your ability and skill level check out our Choose a Board →