Longboarding has been a popular sport for many years. It has become more common among young people, especially those who attend college. Longboarding is not only a sport, but it can also be a method of transportation. However, have you ever wondered what materials are used to make longboards? Let's explore the different materials, each with its own pros and cons.
Maple Wood
Maple wood is the most common material used in longboards. Maple wood is durable and has excellent flex capabilities. It can handle weight and carving, and it is easy to handle for riders. It is also resistant to moisture. The downside to maple wood is that it can be heavy, and it may break under extreme pressure. Maple wood is usually found in entry-level to intermediate longboards.
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Bamboo
Bamboo is a rare and eco-friendly material used for longboards. The longboard community believes the oldest bamboo makes for the best longboards. Bamboo has a high level of flexibility, and it is lighter than maple wood. Riders who enjoy cruising or carving will benefit from a bamboo longboard. The only downside with bamboo longboards is that they may not be as sturdy as maple wood longboards.
Carbon Fiber
Carbon fiber is known for its durability and lightweight. Carbon fiber longboards are usually high-end longboards that are extra light, sturdy and responsive. The downside is that carbon fiber can be quite expensive compared to other materials. It is also more fragile than other materials and not easily accessible to beginner or intermediate riders.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is an excellent material for longboards that require refines aesthetic. Fiberglass is known to be lighter yet stiffer than maple wood. Fiberglass is also famous for its design possibilities. It is easily accessible and less expensive than carbon fiber, making it an excellent alternative. The only disadvantage of fiberglass longboards is that they are not as flexible as bamboo and maple wood longboards.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a sturdy and flexible material used in making longboards. Aluminum longboards are usually found in downhill longboards because of their durability. However, they tend to be quite expensive. Aluminum longboards require a lot of maintenance as they easily get scratched or dented. They are also heavier than other materials, making them difficult to carry around.
Canadian Maple
Canadian maple is similar to maple wood, but it comes from a different type of tree. It is known for its strength and durability. Canadian maple longboards are usually found in high-performance longboards that require extra strength and stability. The downside with Canadian maple longboards is that they are typically more expensive than other materials.
Hybrid Materials
Many longboards use a combination of different materials to create the perfect balance between strength, durability, and flexibility. For example, a longboard may be made with a bamboo deck and fiberglass bottom for added sturdiness. These hybrid materials sometimes come at a higher cost but can provide the best of both worlds when it comes to longboarding.
Conclusion:
Longboarding is a great sport and mode of transportation. As seen above, the materials used to make longboards have a lot of benefits and disadvantages. Maple wood, bamboo, carbon fiber, fiberglass, and aluminum are all excellent options when choosing a material for your longboard. However, ensure that you have an understanding of the material's capabilities, the intended use of the board, and your budget before making a purchase.
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