Are you thinking of getting a new skateboard? Knowing what it’s made of can change how it rides. Plywood is a top material for skateboards because it’s strong yet bends well. So, why choose plywood for a skateboard deck? We’ll explore the benefits of plywood and see why it’s a favorite for skateboarders.
Key Takeaways
- Plywood’s layered structure distributes weight and withstands skateboarding’s rigors.
- Particularly, Baltic Birch plywood offers superior strength and screw-holding capabilities.
- Plywood decks can accommodate various riding styles and endure environmental stress.
- Stability and control are enhanced by various concave options, suiting different riding preferences.
- The natural fibrous structure of plywood provides excellent pop for performing tricks.
Understanding Plywood’s Composition and Structure
Plywood is vital in making skateboards because it’s made with layers of wood, often birch. These layers are glued together in a special way. Known as cross-banding, this process rotates each layer’s grain by 90 degrees from the one next to it. This method makes plywood stronger and helps it avoid common problems like cracking and warping.
Typically, plywood sheets are 4 feet by 8 feet and have an odd number of layers. This design keeps the plywood balanced, which means it’s less likely to warp. This is especially important for skateboards, as they need material that can handle a lot of stress. The plywood’s structure makes it great for decks that must be durable and withstand different weather conditions.
Birch is a popular choice for plywood because it is dense and strong, around 680 kg/m³. Baltic Birch plywood uses 1 mm-thick layers of birch, making it very strong. This is why birch plywood is a top pick for making skateboard decks. It stands up to the tough conditions of skateboarding.
The process to make plywood includes baking the sheets at at least 140°C (284°F) and pressing them with a force of up to 1.9 MPa (280 psi). The glue used in the best plywood has very low formaldehyde emissions. Plywood rated “E0” has almost no emissions, which is safer for everyone involved.
Fully understanding the plywood structure sheds light on why it’s the go-to material for skateboards. Skateboards made from plywood are not only strong and last long, but they also work well in tough situations.
Benefits of Using Plywood for Skateboards
Plywood is great for skateboards because it’s both strong and light. This matters a lot for doing skateboard tricks. Baltic birch plywood is even better. It’s very durable and great at holding screws. This means screws stay tight without the problems you get with other plywoods.
Plywood skateboards are flexible, which helps skaters do better. They are responsive and have great pop, perfect for complex moves. The smooth surface of plywood is also great for adding designs or grip tapes. Skaters who care about looks and performance find this very useful.
Plywood made from Baltic birch doesn’t have gaps inside. It has layers that keep it from bending out of shape, especially in thicker boards. Because of this, plywood skateboards last a long time and are very reliable. For tips on choosing a skateboard, visit this guide.
| Type of Wood | Durability | Flexibility | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maple | High | Moderate | Heavier |
| Bamboo | Moderate | High | Lighter |
| Birch | Moderate | Moderate | Lighter |
| Plywood (Baltic Birch) | High | High | Moderate |
Plywood skateboards are clearly a great option. They are good for both new and pro skaters. These decks last long and help with tricks. They’re also great for anyone who wants to customize their skateboard. So, plywood offers a mix of good looks and practicality.
The Skateboard Deck: Plywood’s Role
The skateboard deck is crucial in skateboarding, with plywood playing a key role in its making. The type of plywood used affects the deck’s performance and how long it lasts.
Plywood lets you shape and size the deck to fit different skating styles and preferences. It’s especially important for custom skateboards. Skateboard decks are made from 1/16″ thick veneer layers, usually seven layers deep. Presses apply up to 250 tons of pressure, making 80 decks in just 1.5 hours.
| Plywood Type | Durability | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Baltic Birch | High | Street Skateboarding |
| Canadian Maple | Moderate | Skateparks |
| Bamboo | Very High | Custom Builds |
Decks from high-quality plywood like Baltic Birch last a long time and handle stress well. This makes them reliable for street skating or skateparks.
Plywood’s flexibility and strength are perfect for custom skateboards. It meets the needs of both pros and beginners in skateboarding.
Alternatives to Plywood in Skateboarding
Skateboards are often made of plywood, but there are new materials out there. These include Masonite skateboarding and Skatelite skateboards. Each offers different pros and cons.
Masonite has a smooth finish, great for indoor skate parks because it helps with slick moves. But, it doesn’t last long outside because it’s not great with water. Skatelite is tough and can handle all kinds of weather, making it great for outdoor ramps.
| Material | Ideal Use | Cost | Durability | Moisture Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masonite | Indoor Parks | Medium | Medium | Low |
| Skatelite | Outdoor Ramps | High | High | High |
| Plywood (Maple) | All Around | Low | High | Medium |
While Masonite and Skatelite have their upsides, they also cost more. For a lot of skaters, plywood is still the go-to because it’s flexible and doesn’t break the bank.
Caring for Your Plywood Skateboard
Keeping your plywood skateboard in good shape means it will last longer and perform better. It’s vital to clean it often to prevent dirt from affecting your grip and causing damage. This also stops the board from wearing out too soon.
It’s also key to keep the wood dry to avoid the layers from weakening. Make sure to dry your board well after using it in wet conditions. Using protective coatings like polyurethane helps protect against moisture and the sun. This can help your skateboard last much longer, especially when you often skate outside.
Make sure to regularly check and tighten the trucks and wheels too. If they’re loose, it could cause accidents or make the skateboard work poorly. By looking after your board well, you can keep it working great and looking good for many years. For more tips on skateboard care and to learn about good skateboard decks, check out this comprehensive guide.
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!