Finding Material for Rib Pad: Tough, Waterproof, Salt-Resistant

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a suitable material for a rib pad that can alleviate discomfort while surfing, particularly for an individual with a protruding rib. The focus is on materials that are tough, waterproof, and resistant to salt corrosion, with considerations for comfort and support.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that a molded pad might be difficult to position correctly on the surfboard, proposing instead to wear the pad like clothing.
  • Another participant inquires whether the pad is intended to be attached to the surfboard or worn, highlighting the importance of water temperature in material selection.
  • A suggestion is made to affix a foam ring inside the wetsuit to protect the rib and distribute contact pressure, likening it to moleskin used for blisters.
  • There is a proposal for using several layers of closed cell foam, with yoga mats mentioned as a potential source for this material.
  • One participant points to casting foam as a possible material, advising caution regarding fumes and casting times.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various ideas and suggestions regarding materials and methods, but there is no consensus on a single solution or approach. Multiple competing views remain on the best way to create the rib pad.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss different material properties and applications, but there are limitations in terms of specific material recommendations and the effectiveness of proposed solutions. The discussion does not resolve the best approach for the rib pad.

DavidG25
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Background
I broke my rib a few years ago. It healed in a way that it sticks out a little past the end of my rib-cage. I want to learn to surf, but it is uncomfortable to lay on my stomach on the board because of the rib. I would like to make a pad to relieve pressure on the rib that sticks out.

I think a moldable material would give the best fit. It needs to be tough, waterproof, and resistant to corrosion by salt. I am imagining some sort of rubber.

I plan to tape or glue this pad to my ribs. A quick internet search found that actors use a variety of glues for glueing things like elf-ears and mustaches to themselves.

Question
What are some options for a material that would make a good pad for my ribs? It cannot be too soft, because it won't provide enough support, but it also cannot be too hard.

First time poster. Feedback is appreciated. Thanks!
 
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:welcome:

That's an interesting and unique equation.

I don't have a material suggestion. But if the board was molded to your body, it might be difficult to position your body to exactly the right place. I would wear the molded pad like clothing and use a standard board.
 
Welcome to the PF.

Are you talking about making a pad that you attach to the surfboard, or one that you wear?

Also, how cold is the water where you are learning? The ocean in Northern California is cold enough that surfers wear thin wetsuits, but in Hawaii, those are not needed... :smile:
 
I plan to attach the pad to myself. I think a slippery coating on top of the pad would let it slide inside the wetsuit.

I am in the pacific northwest, and the water is about 50 degrees. I wore a 5/4/3 wetsuit, but it did not provide enough padding. My rib was quite sore after a session of a few hours.
 
How about affixing a foam ring inside the wetsuit that goes around the rib? That would protect it, and spread out the contact area so hopefully it's comfortable to lay on. Kind of like we do when dressing blisters with moleskin...

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/UXFqwgv-iag/maxresdefault.jpg

maxresdefault.jpg
 

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Some kind of felt, I think. Here's the whole YouTube video...

 
A ring of several layers of closed cell foam seems good. Yoga mats are a readily available source of the stuff.
 
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Perhaps something here would be useful to cast over the rib area.
https://www.polytek.com/product-type/casting-foam/

Be sure to check the fumes, and casting times.

there is also the life casting sub-section
https://www.polytek.com/application/life-casting