Epoxy Resin for Surfboards

Both Kwik Kick and Surf Pro are “Stage 2” epoxies designed to solve the biggest problem in hot coats – resin draining off the rails and into the foam. 

• Kwik Kick: The original Stage 2 epoxy, formulated specifically for hot coats. It stops flowing once it reaches a “soft gel” stage so you get full rail coverage without wasting resin. Pot life ~15 minutes. 
• Surf Pro: A newer formula with slightly lower viscosity, which means it can also be used for laminating as well as hot coats. If you want one system to do it all, Surf Pro is the best choice. 

Both are available in bio-based versions and can be ordered with optical brighteners for maximum clarity and pop.

Yes. Resin Research epoxy systems are formulated to work with both EPS (expanded polystyrene) and PU (polyurethane) surfboard foams. The go-to worldwide system is Resin 2000 + 2100 Fast Hardener, giving the perfect strength and lamination quality for either type of core. 

This is where Resin Research Stage 2 technology comes in. Traditional epoxies keep flowing until they hard-gel, which often means resin drains off the rails and onto the floor. Stage 2 epoxies like Kwik Kick and Surf Pro stop flowing once they reach a soft gel state, but can still be worked and tuned. The result: clean rails, less waste, and a lighter finished board. 

For most first-time laminators, the easiest and most forgiving system is: 

• Resin 2000 + 2100 Slow (~30 minute pot life) for EPS and PU boards. 
• Pair with Kwik Kick for hot coats to avoid rail run-off. 

This combination gives you the global standard resin system, plenty of working time, and no blush issues – perfect for builders learning the process without unnecessary headaches. 

Sometimes. Resin 2000 has a higher viscosity for strength, but it can be thick in cooler conditions. To make it flow more easily into the cloth, just warm the resin bottle in a hot water bath before mixing. This reduces viscosity and helps it wet out the glass faster and more evenly. 

• Stronger & Lighter: Epoxy forms a tougher polymer, giving boards greater impact resistance and durability. 
• Cleaner Finish: Resin Research epoxies are no-blush, so you don’t waste time sanding or solvent washing between coats. 
• Smell and Health: You won’t stink when you go home and epoxy has been linked to less health issues. 
• Stage 2 Technology: Stops raii drain-off on hot coats resulting in money and time saved. 
• Eco-Options: Available in bio-based formulations – something polyester can’t match. 

In short, you’ll spend less time fixing issues, waste less resin, and end up with a lighter, stronger, longer-lasting board.