Indo Board Base Comparison: Plastic vs. Foam vs. Cushion

When deciding how to build your Indo Board setup, you’ll be deciding which option(s) to go with for the base - plastic roller, foam roller, flow cushion. The base controls the ride feel & level of challenge, which translates to different use cases. Whether you’re primarily focused on core strength, dynamic movement, rehab, action sports skill training - or all of the above - this guide breaks down the three base options: the Plastic Roller, the Foam Roller, and the Indo Flow Cushion.

Plastic Roller: The Original Standard

 

 

The Plastic Roller is the original base that built the Indo Board brand. It’s a high-density, durable, 6.5” diameter roller that pairs with any Indo Board deck. This roller base creates smooth, lateral motion across the floor. With a quicker response than the softer 6” foam roller - it’s the base you’ll see in most action shots and training programs. 

Plastic Roller Highlights: 

Best for: All-around fitness, cross-training, boardsport prep
Ride feel: Moderate to dynamic
Surface compatibility: any medium to hard surface (wood, tile, carpet, gym matting)
Skill level: Beginner to advanced

If you want to build balance, improve coordination, or level up  in your boardsport training, the Plastic Roller is the most versatile all-around choice. It’s capable of supporting tricks and spins, but also stable enough to learn the basics. Here’s a video of a real first-timer learning how to ride an Indo Board for the first time on the plastic roller.

 

 

 

Foam Roller: Smooth, Cushioned Ride

 

The Foam Roller is similar in shape to the plastic version (½ inch smaller in diameter & softer material) but offers a very different experience. Made with a compressible foam core, it delivers a smoother and more forgiving roll, with reduced noise and impact. This base comes in at 6” in diameter, as opposed to the original Plastic Roller’s 6.5” diameter. This small height difference gives a slight edge to first-time riders getting comfortable on the board.

Foam Roller Highlights:

Best for: Rehab, barefoot training, lower-impact sessions, beginners
Ride feel: Cushioned and controlled
Surface compatibility: Harder smooth surfaces recommended
Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

This base is ideal for indoor training environments where noise and impact are a concern. If you’re rehabbing an injury or want something with less bite than the plastic roller, this is the right direction. Bear in mind that the added grip will prevent the board from spinning on the roller; which can be beneficial to many, though not ideal for those looking to explore spins or tricks.

 

 

Indo Flow Cushion: Controlled Instability

 

The Indo Flow Balance Cushion removes rolling altogether and replaces it with controlled instability. The board sits atop an inflatable cushion that allows full 360° movement. There’s no linear rolling, which makes this base ideal for static balance, yoga, and rehab work.

"The addition of an Indo Board and Cushion into my workouts was an immediate game changer for me! All of a sudden I'm engaging my core and stabilizing muscles in ways I didn't even know existed. Talk about feeling newbie gains all over again" -One of our fitfluencer partners.

Flow Cushion Highlights:

Best for: Yoga, mobility, rehab, isometric training
Ride feel: Stable base, unstable surface
Surface compatibility: All floor types
Skill level: All levels

The cushion limits range of motion but increases demand on stabilizing muscles. This is a good option for users focused on fine-tuned balance, low-impact body control, or taking weight training to a new level.

 

Side-by-Side Comparison:

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Which Base Is Right for You?

Choose the Plastic Roller if:

• You want to simulate boardsports or challenge your balance

• You’re training for surf, skate, wake or snowboard performance

• You want a wide range of motion for tricks and drills

Choose the Foam Roller if:

• You’re easing into balance work or recovering from an injury

• You want a quieter, softer ride

• You train barefoot or tight indoor quarters

Choose the Indo Flow Cushion if:

• You want a stationary setup with unpredictable motion

• You’re doing yoga, rehab, or stability drills

• You need something ultra low-impact and silent

All three bases work with any Indo Board deck. Most users end up picking up the bundle of all three bases to enjoy the unique benefits of them all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Plastic Roller the most advanced option?
Yes. It provides the most dynamic range of motion and is used in trick-based or surf-style training.

Can I use the Indo Flow Cushion on carpet or tile?
Yes. The cushion is compatible with any flat surface, including carpet and hardwood.

What’s the best base for joint issues or injury recovery?
The Foam Roller or the Indo Flow Cushion are both excellent for low-impact training.

Can I switch bases after I buy a board?
Yes. All Indo Board decks are compatible with all three base options. You can purchase additional bases separately, or bundle with a deck to score a deal!

Is the Foam Roller as challenging as the plastic version?
Not quite. The Foam Roller compresses a bit under weight, which creates a smoother, slower motion and a more forgiving ride.