Liquid Force Wakeboards
The primary construction material for the high performance wakeboards used in wakesurfing is "ultra high molecular weight polythylene" (UHMWP). This thermoplastic is created by a process that spins the molecules into strands that create a very high density material which has both a lighter overall weight and strength yet still maintains a bit of flexibility to the finished product.
It is quite easy to bond other materials to UHMWP, thus one can get a wakeboard with the slick thermoplastic on the bottom for speed and yet still have a traditional upper surface that will allow some traction for the feet to maintain some control over the movements during performances. Most liquid force wakeboards now come with a foot harness that can be custom positioned to account for the user's preferred stance as well as leg span.
UHMWP is a primary structure in such diverse applications as Kevlar body armor and the artificial joints used in replacement surgery. Ropes and sails are also manufactured with this material. There are four methods used to produce this substance. Wakeboards are formed using the compression method rather than the extrusion process. When blended with carbon fibers or fiberglass, the UHMWP creates a strong flexible board with a high impact resistance and very low friction gradient for quicker passage over the water.
With this lightweight, flexible and easily molded and formed material, it is possible to try many variations on wakeboard size and thickness. With each new design of the "liquid force" wakeboard, new properties allow smooth accomplishment of experimental sports performance. Using UHMWP materials as a base prevents chipping and breakage in the boards. Many of the standard maneuvers of wakeboarding would be impossible to achieve with traditional surfboard materials.
As the sport continues, there will undoubtedlybe new materials come to light that may even surpass the liquid force wakeboards in quality and performance.
