As a skateboarder, I am always on the lookout for the best skateboards to ride on. There are many factors that go into choosing the right bamboo vs maple skateboard, including the size, shape, and material of the deck.
In this article, I will be comparing bamboo skateboards and maple skateboards to help you decide which one is right for you.
Bamboo Skateboards vs Maple Skateboards
| Feature | Bamboo Skateboard | Maple Skateboard |
| Durability | More durable | Less durable |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Flex | More flex | Less flex |
| Shock absorption | Better shock absorption | Worse shock absorption |
| Environmental impact | More environmentally friendly | Less environmentally friendly |
| Overall | Better for cruising and carving | Better for tricks and downhill |
Bamboo Skateboards
Bamboo skateboards have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their eco-friendliness and unique feel. Bamboo is a sustainable resource that grows quickly and requires very little water to thrive. This makes it an attractive alternative to traditional materials like maple, which can take decades to grow and require more resources to harvest.
One of the main benefits of bamboo skateboards is their flex. Bamboo decks tend to be more flexible than maple decks, which can give them a more forgiving ride and make them easier to control. This makes them a great choice for beginner skateboarders or for those who prefer a more surf-like feel when riding.
However, bamboo decks also have some drawbacks. They are generally not as durable as maple decks and may not last as long with heavy use. They also tend to be more expensive, as the process of making bamboo decks is more labor-intensive and requires more specialized equipment.
Maple Skateboards
Maple skateboards have been the traditional choice for skateboarders for many years. Maple is a hardwood that is known for its strength and durability, which makes it well-suited for skateboarding. Maple decks are also generally less expensive than bamboo decks, as the process of making them is more streamlined and requires less specialized equipment.
One of the main benefits of maple skateboards is their durability. Maple decks can withstand a lot of abuse and are less likely to break or become damaged than bamboo decks. They are also generally more stable and have less flex, which can make them a better choice for skateboarders who prefer a more stable ride or who are planning to do tricks and flips.
However, maple skateboards also have some drawbacks. They are not as sustainable as bamboo, as it takes longer for maple trees to grow and requires more resources to harvest. Maple decks may also feel less forgiving than bamboo decks and may be more difficult to control for beginner skateboarders.
Bamboo vs Maple Skateboards
When it comes to choosing between a bamboo skateboard and a maple skateboard, there are several key factors to consider. Here is a comparison of some of the main differences between the two:
Sustainability
If sustainability is a major concern for you, then bamboo skateboards may be the better choice. Bamboo is a renewable resource that grows quickly and requires very little water to thrive, making it a more environmentally-friendly option than maple. Maple, on the other hand, takes longer to grow and requires more resources to harvest. Additionally, bamboo is biodegradable, so it is less harmful to the environment at the end of its life.
However, it’s worth noting that both bamboo and maple skateboards can be made in a sustainable way, depending on how they are harvested and manufactured.
Durability
When it comes to durability, maple skateboards tend to come out on top. Maple is a hardwood that is known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear, making it less likely to break or become damaged than bamboo. However, this doesn’t mean that all bamboo skateboards are necessarily weak or prone to breaking – it just means that, on average, maple skateboards tend to be more durable.
Flex
One of the main differences between bamboo and maple skateboards is the flex of the deck. Bamboo decks tend to be more flexible than maple decks, which can give them a more forgiving ride and make them easier to control. This can be a major advantage for beginner skateboarders or for those who prefer a more surf-like feel when riding.
Maple skateboards, on the other hand, are generally more stable and have less flex, which can make them a better choice for skateboarders who prefer a more stable ride or who are planning to do tricks and flips. However, if you prefer a more stable and rigid ride, then a maple deck may be a better choice.
Price
When it comes to price, maple skateboards tend to be less expensive than bamboo skateboards. The process of making maple decks is more streamlined and requires less specialized equipment, which helps to keep the cost down. However, it’s worth noting that the price of a skateboard can vary widely depending on the brand, size, and features, so it’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.
Conclusion
| Feature | Bamboo Skateboard | Maple Skateboard |
| Weight | Bamboo skateboards are generally lighter than maple skateboards. | Maple skateboards tend to be heavier compared to bamboo skateboards. |
| Flexibility | Bamboo skateboards exhibit exceptional flexibility. | Maple skateboards are stiffer compared to bamboo skateboards. |
| Strength | Bamboo skateboards have good impact and flexural strength. | Maple skateboards are known for their longitudinal strength. |
| Durability | N/A | Maple skateboards are considered durable and can withstand agile skating. |
| Environmental Impact | Bamboo is often considered a more environmentally friendly option. | Maple skateboards are made from a widely available and renewable resource. |
| Cost | N/A | The cost of bamboo and maple skateboards may vary. |
| Overall Assessment | Bamboo skateboards offer flexibility and lightness, while maple skateboards provide durability and stiffness [2]. | N/A |
In conclusion, both bamboo and maple skateboards have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Bamboo skateboards are more eco-friendly and have a unique flex, but they may not be as durable or as affordable as maple skateboards. Maple skateboards are more durable and generally less expensive, but they may not be as sustainable or as forgiving as bamboo skateboards.
Ultimately, the right choice in Bamboo vs Maple Skateboard for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs as a skateboarder. If you are still unsure which one to choose, it might be helpful to try out both types of skateboards to see which one feels best to you.
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