Bamboo Vs Maple Skate Decks: Which Is Best For You?

When it comes to skateboard material, there are many different options to choose from. For deck materials, there are even more choices. Therefore, the question arises as to which material is best for you?

The most popular are wooden boards, in that also bamboo and maple boards are the most demanding ones. So, in this article, we will compare bamboo vs maple skate decks and figure out which is right for you based on your riding style.

This article will clarify all your doubts about choosing maple or bamboo for the deck. So let us dive in.

Bamboo Vs Maple Skate Decks

The main difference between bamboo and maple decks is that bamboo is a more flexible and long lasting material, while maple is a more durable and sturdier material. The bamboo deck is also quite expensive compared to maple decks, but bamboo is the better choice if you want a more eco-friendly option.

This is a short explanation of the differences between bamboo and maple skateboard decks. Now let’s examine the differences between them in detail and see which is best for you.

To identify the differences, you must first know what material each deck is made from.

Bamboo Skateboard Deck Review

Bamboo skateboards are made from durable and strong bamboo plants. Decks made of these materials are strong and can withstand a lot of wear, making them ideal for beginners as well as pro skaters. In addition, they are easy to control, thanks to their natural grip.

Please note that not all bamboo skateboard decks are made from bamboo wood. You’ll get many decks in which the inner material of maple or fiberglass and the outer surface of bamboo.

Bamboo decks are often considered to be an environmentally friendly option because they are made from trees that grow faster than maple trees. However, they can be more challenging to find and are more expensive than maple decks.

In conclusion, these decks are flexible, lightweight, long lasting, and environmentally friendly.

Maple Skateboard Deck Review

A maple skateboard is made from a hardwood tree. Compared to bamboo boards, these decks are thicker and have a more durable grip. Moreover, they come in different shapes and sizes, making them suitable for all skill levels. It’s because maple wood is easy to give shape.

It is often cheaper to build a maple deck than a bamboo deck; however, they may not be as environmentally friendly. Nowadays, the majority of skateboard decks are made from maple wood due to their high demand.

As far as we’re concerned, maple skateboard decks are the best option for people who want durable and affordable skateboards. Also, those who like stylish boards should go with a maple deck.

In order to find the right skateboard deck material, let’s compare bamboo vs maple skateboard decks and learn everything you need to know about skateboard deck materials.

Which Is Lightweight Deck?

Bamboo is the lightest skateboard deck material. Bamboo decks are made of lightweight plant material and are very flexible. They weigh only about two pounds, making them easy to move.

Therefore, if you are planning to ride fast and do not mind carrying your board around, bamboo is the best material for you.

Which Is A Durable Deck?

Both bamboo and maple skateboards are durable; however, maple skateboards tend to be more durable. Maple boards are made from a hardwood tree and are very thick. Also, they are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, so they are great for all skill levels. You can also check what size skateboard should I get.

Which Has More Strength?

The strength of maple boards is greater than that of bamboo boards. Maple boards are made from hardwood trees and are thicker than bamboo boards.

Due to its hard and thick wood, maple skateboards can also withstand heavy pressure. If you’re looking for a durable and strong skateboard, a maple deck is the best option for you.

Which Is More Flexible?

Bamboo decks are much more flexible than maple decks. Bamboo decks are lightweight plant materials that are very flexible. Because they are lightweight, they can be easily turned sharp.

Therefore if you’re planning for fast riding and don’t mind carrying your board around, bamboo is the best option for you.

Which Has More Style?

If you’re looking for a stylish skateboard, a maple deck is the best option for you. As they are easy to craft, maple boards, come in different shapes and sizes, which makes them ideal for all skateboard tricks and aesthetically appealing. Additionally, they have a beautiful wood grain texture, which gives them an elegant appearance.

Highest Weight Capacity

If you’re looking to set up a skateboard for heavy riders, a maple deck is the best option for you. A maple board has a higher weight capacity than a bamboo board, which means it can easily support heavier riders.

According to the plies used in the deck, every deck has a different weight capacity, but most Maple wood decks hold 330 pounds.

Even though bamboo wood has less strength, if it’s made with a mix of maple and bamboo wood, as stated above, the inner part of maple and outer part of the bamboo is capable of supporting more weight up to 220 or 250 pounds.

Best for Cruising, Carving, And Commuting

If you have a good budget and want a skateboard that can be used for cruising, carving, and commuting, a bamboo deck is the best option. Bamboo boards are lightweight and flexible, which makes them easy to maneuver. It doesn’t mean maple decks aren’t good for these activities, but bamboo boards are more appropriate. For low budget riders, a maple deck is also a good option.

Best For Street And Tricks

If you are looking for a skateboard that is best suited for tricks and streets, a maple deck is your best choice. It doesn’t matter what kind of deck you use for street skating or performing tricks, it eventually breaks. Maple boards are of decent quality and reasonably priced, so you can replace them if they break.

Environment Friendly

When it comes to the environment, bamboo is definitely the winner. As a renewable resource, bamboo boards don’t require much space or time to grow in comparison to maple. Also, they are biodegradable, so if you don’t want to throw them away, you can compost them.

Which Is Affordable?

If you’re looking for the cheapest option, a maple deck is the best option. Maple boards are affordable and decent quality boards compared to bamboo. You can even look out for the best skateboards under 100 dollars which comes fully assembled made of maple wood.

Which is best for you? (Recommendation)

Although we’ve clearly shown above the advantages and disadvantages of both maple and bamboo, consequently, it ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in a board.

Even so, if you’re a beginner or on a budget, choose a maple board. They’re also of decent quality and can be replaced if they break. However, bamboo is the best choice if you want something that will last for a long time and is willing to invest in a higher quality board.

FAQ’s

Conclusion

Both skateboard decks are great, but ultimately it depends on your own preferences and what you want from a skateboard deck.

However, if you want our recommendation for bamboo vs maple skate decks, bamboo skate decks might be a good option for those with a good budget, and maple skate decks for those with a limited budget.