Twin-sheet thermoforming (TST) SUP is more durable and affordable, but 10% heavier with average paddling performance; Epoxy SUP is lighter, but comes at a higher price and is relatively more fragile.
Because inside material/structure of them is same, so their feature is similar, only difference is material of top outer skin. For Twin-sheet-thermforming sup, thanks to fast mold production and lower price, it will replace the traditional epoxy sup.
| Feature | Twin-Sheet Thermoforming SUP | Epoxy/Fiberglass SUP |
| Core Process | Fiberglass cloth is wrapped around an EPS foam core, Then two ASA plastic sheets are heated and vacuum-pressed together by mold in order to cover round the EPS foam core. | Fiberglass cloth is wrapped around an EPS foam core, then impregnated with epoxy resin and polishing. |
| Main Material | Molded EPS foam core +Fiberglass Woven Molded ASA Polymer outer skin | EPS foam core fiberglass woven epoxy resin |
| Mamafa | 10% Heavier | 10% ma'ama'a |
| Stiffness/Rigidity | Similar with Epoxy SUP, but with flexibility | Cured epoxy resin is very stiff, offering excellent energy transfer. |
| Paddling Feel | the same to Epoxy fiberglass sup | Light, stiff, fast — responsive to strokes, offering a crisp paddling experience. |
| Durability | Extremely ASA with high impact-resistant and UV protection, it is more durable than epoxy sup | Although stiff, it’s vulnerable to sharp impacts; rocks can cause dents or cracks. |
| Fakatahatahaʻi | Fast mold production | Slow manual labor production |
| Price | Fast mold production, lower price | More manual labor involved, higher material and labor costs. higher price |
Choose Twin-Sheet Thermoforming SUP if:
- You run a rental shop or club — boards will be roughly used by paddlers of all skill levels. Durability is the top priority.
- You’re a beginner on a budget — you want a hard board at a lower cost and want same performance as epoxy sup.
