What is the difference between an extruded snowboard base and a sintered snowboard base?

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Catching air — snowboarding Snowboarder Torah Bright of Australia competing at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

The primary difference between extruded and sintered snowboard bases lies in their material density, performance, and maintenance requirements. Both are typically made from P-Tex, an abrasion-resistant polyethylene plastic, but they differ in their porosity and speed.1

Extruded Bases: These are highly durable and long-lasting. Because they are less porous, they hold less wax, which makes them the slower of the two options. They are generally considered the best choice for novice or occasional snowboarders who prioritize low maintenance over high-speed performance.1
Sintered Bases: These bases are more porous, allowing them to absorb wax effectively. This characteristic makes them faster than extruded bases. However, this performance comes at a cost, as they are more expensive to repair if damaged.1

Choosing between the two depends on whether you prioritize the durability and ease of use found in an extruded base or the speed and wax-retention capabilities of a sintered base.1