Nomad PP Core vs D12 Core

What’s the Difference?

One of the most common questions we’re asked is:

What’s the difference between a Nomad PP Core and a D12 Core bodyboard?

The simple answer is that both boards feature premium Polypropylene (PP) cores, but they’re engineered to deliver different flex characteristics and riding experiences.

The best board isn’t necessarily the stiffest or the most flexible—it’s the one that suits your local conditions, riding style and personal preference.

For over 25 years, Nomad has been designing bodyboards for Australian conditions, and we’ve found that choosing the right construction is all about matching the board to the rider.

What is a PP Core?

Polypropylene (PP) is regarded as one of the highest-performing core materials in modern bodyboarding.

PP cores are known for their:

• Lightweight construction.
• Excellent durability.
• Fast projection.
• Responsive feel.
• Outstanding all-round performance.
  
  

Both the Nomad PP Core and D12 Core utilise premium polypropylene foam, with the key difference being the density of the material and the flex characteristics it produces.

Nomad Premium PP Core

The Nomad Premium PP Core uses a higher density polypropylene foam.

The increased density creates a firmer, stiffer board that delivers exceptional speed, projection and drive. Riders who prefer a direct response and powerful acceleration often gravitate towards the traditional PP Core construction.

PP Core Characteristics

• Higher density PP foam.
• Firmer flex pattern.
• Excellent projection.
• Fast and responsive.
• Direct feel through turns.

Best Suited For

• Intermediate and advanced riders.
• Powerful beach breaks.
• Riders who prefer a firmer board.
  
• Tropical and warmer temperate water conditions.
• Surfers wanting maximum drive and projection.
  
  

Nomad D12 Core

The D12 Core also features premium polypropylene foam but utilises a lower density construction. Developed by Nomad to deliver additional flex and recoil while retaining the benefits of a premium PP construction, the D12 creates a lively and responsive feel under the rider.

The lower density allows the board to flex more naturally, creating a lively and responsive feel under the rider.

Many bodyboarders enjoy the additional flex characteristics the D12 offers, particularly across a variety of wave conditions.

D12 Characteristics

• Lower density PP foam.
• Increased flex.
• Responsive feel.
• Smooth projection.
• Lively performance.

Many riders also choose the D12 Core in colder climates, where the increased flex characteristics can help maintain a responsive feel in lower water temperatures.

Best Suited For

• Intermediate and advanced riders.
• Riders who enjoy a more flexible board.
• Surfers looking for a lively feel.
• Cold and temperate water conditions. (can be used in warmer water but gives more flex characteristics)
• Performance surfing across a wide range of waves.
  
  

Built to Last

Both the Nomad PP Core and D12 Core are built using premium polypropylene foam and are designed to deliver years of high-performance bodyboarding.

The difference between the two constructions isn’t durability—it’s the flex characteristics each board delivers. The higher density PP Core provides a firmer, more direct feel, while the lower density D12 Core offers increased flex and a lively riding characteristic.

Both constructions are engineered to withstand the demands of Australian conditions, with the best choice coming down to rider preference and the type of feel you’re looking for in a bodyboard.

Which Board Is Faster?

Both constructions are designed for high-performance bodyboarding.

The difference isn’t simply speed—it’s how the board delivers that speed.

The higher density PP Core provides a firmer, more direct feel with exceptional projection, while the D12 Core delivers speed through increased flex and a lively riding characteristic.

Neither construction is inherently faster; the best choice comes down to rider preference and the conditions you surf most often.

Which One Should I Choose?

Choose a Nomad PP Core if you:

• Prefer a firmer board.
• Like a stiffer, direct feel.
• Want excellent drive and projection.
• Surf powerful beach breaks.
• Enjoy a fast, responsive ride.
  
  

Choose a Nomad D12 Core if you:

• Prefer a little more flex.
• Enjoy a lively riding characteristic.
• Want a responsive feel across varying conditions.
• Surf in cooler water temperatures.
• Like a more forgiving performance board.
  
  

Australian Conditions

Australia offers some of the most diverse bodyboarding waves in the world, from playful beach breaks to heavy slabs and reefs.

Over the years we’ve found that rider preference often comes down to feel rather than outright performance.

Some riders love the firmer, direct response of the higher density PP Core, while others prefer the increased flex characteristics of the D12 Core, particularly when surfing in colder climates.

Both constructions have been designed to perform in Australian conditions, with the final choice depending on the type of ride you enjoy most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the D12 Core a PP Core?

Yes. Both the Nomad PP Core and D12 Core utilise premium polypropylene foam.

What’s the main difference?

The primary difference is the density of the polypropylene foam and the flex characteristics each construction delivers.

Is one better than the other?

No.

Both are premium performance constructions designed to suit different rider preferences and surfing styles.

Which construction is best for colder water?

Both perform exceptionally well in colder conditions. Many riders prefer the D12 Core because its increased flex characteristics can provide a lively, responsive feel in cooler water temperatures, while others enjoy the firmer projection of the higher density PP Core.

Which board should I buy?

If you’re unsure, contact the Nomad team. We’ll help you choose the right board based on your height, weight, experience and local surf conditions.

Still Need Help?

For over 25 years, Nomad has been helping Australian bodyboarders choose the right equipment for their local conditions and riding style.

If you’re unsure whether the PP Core or D12 Core is right for you, get in touch and we’ll help match you with the perfect board for your next session.

Not sure which size suits you? Check out our Bodyboard Sizing Chart.