Bamboo skateboards have become increasingly popular among Australian skateboarders in recent years. The eco-friendly and sustainable material offers a range of benefits, from strength and durability to flexibility and lightness.
Dear friends, I may not be a great skateboarder, but I have a strong passion for the skateboard manufacturing process, the innovative designs, and the fashion culture that comes with it. Compared to other forms of recreational activities, skateboarding is still relatively new. Therefore, you may think there isn’t much to learn about the history of skateboard manufacturing and how it influences your skateboarding style. But, brace yourself, as you may be surprised!
It’s no secret that most skateboards are made from traditional hard maple wood. Maple wood is sturdy, robust, durable, and highly responsive, providing the much sought-after POP in skateboarding.
Unfortunately, using maple wood is not environmentally friendly. It takes many years to grow a maple tree, and with deforestation happening every year, maple trees are becoming scarce. We cannot grow maple trees quickly enough to replace the ones we have cut down.
Hence, there has been a shift towards more eco-friendly materials, and bamboo is one of them. Bamboo is known for being hard yet flexible, durable yet light. It has many qualities that I find fantastic when skateboarding. However, I will be honest and admit that some of my friends do not like the feel of riding a bamboo skateboard.
To some extent, it is a matter of personal preference. However, the pros and cons of using bamboo skateboards are relatively clear-cut.
If you want to know more about bamboo skateboards, please read on.
Top Australian Bamboo Skateboard Sellers
In Australia, there are several companies that specialise in bamboo skateboards, offering riders a range of options to choose from.
These companies not only offer high-quality and eco-friendly bamboo skateboards, but they also provide expert advice and support for riders looking to make the switch from traditional wooden boards. Whether you’re a seasoned skateboarder or just starting out, bamboo skateboards offer a great alternative that’s both sustainable and stylish.
Some of the most popular bamboo skateboard brands in Australia include:
- Evolve Skateboards
- Globe Skateboards
- Arbor Skateboards
- Sector 9 Skateboards
- Quest Skateboards
These brands offer a variety of bamboo skateboard models, ranging from traditional skateboard shapes to longboards and cruisers. Many of these brands also offer hybrid bamboo and maple skateboards for added durability and pop.
Evolve Bamboo Skateboards
Evolve Skateboards is a company based in Australia that specialises in electric skateboards, including those made with bamboo decks. Some of the most popular bamboo models offered by Evolve Skateboards include:
- Evolve Bamboo GTR: The Evolve Bamboo GTR is one of the most popular models offered by the company. It features a bamboo deck, dual motors, and a top speed of up to 50km per hour. It also has a range of up to 60 km per charge, making it a great option for commuters.
- Evolve Bamboo GTX: The Evolve Bamboo GTX is another popular model that features a bamboo deck. It has a top speed of up to 50km per hour and a range of up to 60km per charge. It also has a flexible bamboo deck that provides a smooth ride.
- Evolve Bamboo ONE: The Evolve Bamboo ONE is a more affordable option that features a bamboo deck. It has a top speed of up to 40km per hour and a range of up to 15km per charge. It is a great option for beginners or those on a budget.
As for their quality, Evolve Skateboards is generally considered to be a reputable brand that offers high-quality electric skateboards. Their bamboo models are known for their durability, flexibility, and smooth ride. However, as with any product, there are always individual experiences and preferences to consider. It’s important to do your own research and read reviews before making a purchase decision.
Globe Bamboo Skateboards
Globe is a well-known skateboard brand that has been in the industry since the 1980s. In recent years, they have added bamboo skateboards to their collection, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional maple wood decks.
Bamboo is a sustainable and renewable material that grows quickly, making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious skateboarders. Globe’s bamboo decks are made from a combination of bamboo and Canadian maple wood, creating a durable and lightweight board that is also environmentally friendly.
Globe offers a range of bamboo skateboard models, including cruiser boards, longboards, and traditional skateboards. The boards are available in various sizes and shapes to suit different riding styles and preferences.
One of Globe’s most popular bamboo skateboard models is the Blazer Cruiser. This board features a bamboo and maple wood construction, with a mellow concave and kicktail for easy maneuverability. The Blazer Cruiser also comes with Globe’s signature Clear Broadcast grip, which allows the natural beauty of the bamboo to shine through.
Another popular model is the Geminon Drop-Down Longboard, which is designed for downhill and freeriding. This board has a bamboo and maple wood construction, with a drop-down deck shape for added stability at high speeds. The Geminon also features a W-Concave and multiple wheelbase options, making it a versatile board for different riding styles.
Overall, Globe’s bamboo skateboards offer a stylish and eco-friendly option for skateboarders who want to reduce their environmental impact while still enjoying a high-quality ride.
Arbor Bamboo Skateboards
Arbor Skateboards is a popular skateboard brand known for its high-quality boards and commitment to sustainability. The brand has a line of bamboo skateboards that are both durable and eco-friendly.
Arbor’s bamboo skateboards are made using a combination of bamboo and Canadian hard rock maple wood. The bamboo provides a lightweight and flexible deck that is strong and responsive, while the maple wood gives the board added durability and stability.
One of Arbor’s popular bamboo skateboards is the Axis 40. This board features a symmetrical design and drop-through mounting that makes it ideal for cruising and carving. The bamboo construction gives the board a unique look, and the 8-ply construction provides a smooth ride and great control.
Another popular bamboo skateboard from Arbor is the Timeless Bamboo 42. This board features a classic pintail shape and a bamboo and maple wood construction that gives it a nice balance of flex and stability. The board is perfect for cruising and carving, and its large size makes it great for riders of all skill levels.
Arbor Skateboards is committed to sustainability, and their bamboo skateboards are no exception. The brand uses bamboo because it is a renewable resource that grows quickly and requires less water and pesticides than traditional hardwoods. Arbor also uses eco-friendly materials and processes in their production, making their boards a great choice for environmentally conscious skaters.
Overall, Arbor’s bamboo skateboards are a great choice for riders who are looking for a high-quality, eco-friendly board that provides a smooth ride and great control. Whether you’re cruising the streets or carving down hills, Arbor’s bamboo skateboards are sure to impress.
Sector 9 Bamboo Skateboards
Sector 9 is a well-known skateboard brand that has been producing high-quality skateboards for over 25 years. One of their most popular skateboard materials is bamboo.
Bamboo has become a popular choice for skateboard construction due to its strength, durability, and eco-friendliness. Sector 9 has taken advantage of these properties to produce a range of bamboo skateboards that are both lightweight and strong.
One of the most popular Sector 9 bamboo skateboards is the “Bamboo Series”. These skateboards are designed with a bamboo core and are sandwiched between layers of fiberglass for added strength. The result is a lightweight, durable board that is perfect for cruising, carving, and commuting.
Another popular bamboo skateboard from Sector 9 is the “Mini Shaka”. This board features a bamboo and maple hybrid construction, making it both strong and flexible. It’s a great board for carving, commuting, and cruising around town.
Sector 9 also offers a range of bamboo longboards, such as the “Dropper”. This board features a drop-through design that makes it easy to push and stable at high speeds. It’s a great board for downhill racing, cruising, and carving.
Overall, Sector 9’s bamboo skateboards are an excellent choice for riders looking for a durable, eco-friendly, and high-performing skateboard. With a range of shapes, sizes, and designs to choose from, there’s a Sector 9 bamboo skateboard to suit every rider’s style and needs.
Quest Bamboo Skateboards
Quest Skateboards is a brand that has been gaining popularity in recent years for their affordable yet high-quality bamboo skateboards. Their bamboo skateboards are known for being lightweight, durable, and environmentally friendly.
Quest Skateboards offers a variety of bamboo skateboards in different sizes and styles, including cruiser boards, longboards, and traditional skateboards. One of their most popular models is the Quest Super Cruiser Longboard, which measures 44 inches in length and 9.5 inches in width.
The Quest Super Cruiser Longboard is made from 100% sustainable bamboo and features a multi-ply hardwood maple and bamboo deck for added strength and durability. The board also comes with high-quality components such as aluminum trucks and smooth-riding polyurethane wheels.
Another popular bamboo skateboard from Quest is the Quest Native Spirit Longboard, which features a beautiful Native American-inspired design on the underside of the deck. This board measures 40 inches in length and 9 inches in width, making it a great choice for cruising around town or carving down hills.
Overall, Quest Skateboards’ bamboo skateboards offer a great balance of affordability, quality, and eco-friendliness. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater, Quest has a bamboo skateboard that will suit your needs and style.
What is a bamboo skateboard?
Skateboards are commonly made from hard maple wood, giving a toughness and sturdiness that skateboarders know and love. Sadly, maple trees are fast becoming far and few, with deforestation impacting the environment. Bamboo on the other hand, is fast to grow and is plentiful around the world.
Bamboo is not actually a tree, but rather a type of grass. It’s therefore extremely flexible but has the strength to hold a lot of weight. (You may have seen construction sites using bamboo to create scaffolding).
Accordingly, innovative skateboard manufacturers have turned to making decks out of bamboo. It’s a great way to protect the environment, contribute to the sustainability of the world but also not detract from the fun and excitement of skateboarding (or even enhanced).
Why use a Bamboo Skateboard
Our earth is suffering from unsustainable manufacturing methods that suck up natural resources. As a result, if you are a socially responsible person, bamboo is a great way to replace maple with bamboo. Bamboo is in great abundance around the world, it’s fast and easy to grow, plus it can easily be decomposed and recycled. Bamboo is strong enough to form the deck of a skateboard and be customised, just like maple skateboards.
Key reasons:
Strength and Durability: Bamboo is known for its incredible strength, making it the perfect material for skateboards. Unlike traditional wooden skateboards, which can warp and crack over time, bamboo skateboards are more resistant to wear and tear, making them a durable and long-lasting option.
Flexibility: Another key benefit of bamboo skateboards is their flexibility. This makes them great for riders who prefer a more flexible deck that can absorb shocks and vibrations. This flexibility also makes bamboo boards less likely to snap or break when performing tricks.
Sustainability: Bamboo is a highly sustainable material, which makes it a popular choice for environmentally conscious skateboarders. Unlike traditional hardwoods, which can take decades to grow, bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource that can be harvested in just a few years. This means that bamboo skateboards have a much lower environmental impact than traditional wooden boards.
Affordability: Despite their many benefits, bamboo skateboards are often more affordable than traditional wooden boards. This is because bamboo is a widely available material that can be easily sourced and manufactured, making it a cost-effective option for skateboard manufacturers.
Considerations when buying a Bamboo Skateboard
When buying a bamboo skateboard there are several aspects that you should take into consideration. Bamboo skateboards are generally more flexible and less durable than maple, therefore there are some obvious factors that come into play.
Type of Board
The type of board you like to skate on will play a part in the longevity of the bamboo skateboard. For general board cruising, bamboo skateboards are fantastic, light weight and sturdy. They are perfect for travelling from A to B, efficiently and without fuss. However, if you are seeking a trickster board to run off ramps, POP off in the skate parks, then a bamboo skateboard may not last as long as a maple. Don’t get me wrong, they will still go the distance, but they won’t last forever like maple boards.
Weight
Bamboo boards weigh a lot less than maple boards. This is fantastic for carrying around on buses, trains and other forms of public transport. In terms of skating experience, the lighter board produces wild POP that I love. However, there are some skaters that prefer a heavier board. It really comes down to preference.
Bamboo has more flex: Bamboo flexes more than maple, and therefore I find that I can bounce more with bamboo decks. I can achieve great lift with bamboo and leverage off the flexibility to have more bounce. Sometimes, too much flex can be bad, particularly if you are an exceptionally heavy person. But for the majority of skaters, bamboo boards will often great flex without compromising on sturdiness.
Wear and Tear
If you are mad skater, every day and hour skating, then yes, you may find bamboo skateboards will wear out quicker than maple. It will be gradual, not a sudden deterioration, but the board will fade at a faster rate.
Pricing
Bamboo skateboards are cheaper to make because bamboo is cheaper than maple. That’s simply it. They aren’t any harder or easier to make than maple boards, hence in terms of manufacturer man and machine power there really is no difference. That’s not to say you won’t find a really expense bamboo skateboard. As with any product, the better the quality the more expensive it will be. Having said that, bamboo boards are on average cheaper than maple skateboards.
Manufacturer
Finding a good manufacturer of bamboo boards can be difficult at times. Most skaters will stick to US manufacturers, purely due to reputation and assurance of quality. But I have found that Indonesian manufacturers are just as good, if not better. And, on the plus side, they are also cheaper. You will see in my list recommendations further below, I mention a few Indonesian manufactures that can be trusted to buy from.
Bamboo Skateboard Components
A bamboo skateboard comprises the same components as a maple board, and is made of three parts.
Bamboo Deck: A bamboo deck is often made of mixture of bamboo and other material. It’s not often you will find a skateboard made from 100% bamboo. Typically a bamboo deck has several ply bookended by fibreglass or a sheet of maple.
A bamboo deck is no different in concavity and sizing as maple boards. In fact, bamboo decks are able to support more concavity due it’s flexibity and sturdiness.
Bamboo Skateboard Trucks: The trucks themselves do not differ for bamboo boards. However, how they attach to the deck can be slightly different. The material of bamboo has more fibres than maple, and therefore, depending on how the board is created, it may require a slight tweak to securing the truck to the board. For the vast majority of skaters this will not be noticeable when skating. You will still be able to adjust the kingpin and pressure on the bushing.
Bamboo Skateboard Wheels: Similarly with maple boards, you will find various size wheels that can be attached to a bamboo board. For the tricksters out there, bamboo boards can easily support the smaller wheels for the quick turns and dexterity.
For the jumpers and beginners, medium wheels make the perfect fit for an all round performance.
And for the long boarders, the larger wheels make bamboo boards the ultimate cruising experience.
Types of Bamboo Skateboards
Bamboo skateboards come in various compositions and styles.
Bamboo and Maple Hybrid
A Bamboo and Maple Hybrid skateboard is a type of skateboard that combines both bamboo and maple wood in its construction. This type of skateboard is becoming increasingly popular among skaters due to its unique properties that come from the combination of the two materials.
Maple wood is traditionally the most common material used in skateboard decks. It is a dense and sturdy wood that provides the necessary strength and durability to withstand the high impact forces and weight of skaters. Maple wood also has a good amount of flexibility and responsiveness that allows for good pop and control when performing tricks.
Bamboo, on the other hand, is a newer material that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is a fast-growing and renewable resource that is eco-friendly. Bamboo is known for its strength and flexibility, and it is often used in the construction of various products, such as furniture and flooring.
When bamboo and maple wood are combined in a hybrid skateboard, the resulting deck has the best of both worlds. The maple wood provides the necessary stiffness and durability, while the bamboo adds an extra layer of flexibility and lightness. The combination of the two materials can also result in a unique aesthetic look that is visually appealing.
A Bamboo and Maple Hybrid skateboard offers a unique riding experience that many skaters enjoy. It provides a good balance between durability, flexibility, and weight, making it an excellent choice for skaters of all levels. Additionally, the eco-friendly properties of bamboo make it a great alternative to traditional maple wood skateboards for those who are environmentally conscious.
All Bamboo
An All Bamboo skateboard is a type of skateboard deck made entirely out of bamboo material. It’s a popular choice for eco-conscious skateboarders who are looking for a sustainable alternative to traditional maple wood decks.
Bamboo is a type of grass that is known for being strong, flexible, and lightweight. It’s an excellent material for skateboards because it provides a smooth and comfortable ride while also being durable and able to withstand the wear and tear of skateboarding.
The All Bamboo skateboard deck is made by layering multiple sheets of bamboo veneers together using an adhesive. This process creates a deck that is strong, lightweight, and environmentally friendly. The deck is then shaped and sanded to the desired shape and size, and holes are drilled for trucks and hardware.
One of the benefits of an All Bamboo skateboard deck is its flexibility. The bamboo material is naturally springy, which can provide a more responsive and lively ride compared to traditional maple decks. Additionally, bamboo decks have been known to absorb shock better than other types of decks, which can make them a great choice for skaters who want to reduce the impact on their joints.
Another benefit of an All Bamboo skateboard deck is its eco-friendliness. Bamboo is a renewable resource that grows much faster than maple trees, making it a more sustainable option. Additionally, bamboo can be harvested without causing damage to the plant, which helps to maintain the ecosystem.
An All Bamboo skateboard is a great choice for skaters who want a sustainable and high-performance deck. While it may take some getting used to if you’re used to riding on traditional maple decks, the flexibility and shock absorption of bamboo can provide a unique and enjoyable riding experience.
Bamboo and Fiberglass Composite
A bamboo and fiberglass composite skateboard is a type of skateboard deck that is made by combining layers of bamboo and fiberglass to create a strong, flexible, and durable deck.
Bamboo is used in skateboard decks because it is a sustainable and eco-friendly material that is known for its strength and flexibility. It is also lighter than traditional maple decks, which makes it easier to maneuver and pop tricks. Fiberglass is used in combination with bamboo to add strength and durability to the deck, while also helping to reduce the amount of flex in the board.
To make a bamboo and fiberglass composite skateboard deck, layers of bamboo and fiberglass are laminated together using a high-pressure press. The number of layers and the thickness of each layer can vary depending on the desired strength, flex, and weight of the deck. Some decks may have more bamboo layers and less fiberglass layers, while others may have more fiberglass layers and less bamboo layers.
One of the benefits of using a bamboo and fiberglass composite skateboard deck is that it can offer a good balance of strength, flexibility, and durability. The bamboo layers provide the deck with a natural flex, while the fiberglass layers add strength and durability to the deck. This can make it a great option for skaters who want a board that is strong and durable, but also has some flex to it for tricks.
Additionally, bamboo and fiberglass composite skateboard decks are often more resistant to moisture and warping than traditional maple decks. This can make them a good option for skaters who live in areas with high humidity or who frequently skate in wet conditions.
A bamboo and fiberglass composite skateboard deck is a popular option for skaters who want a strong, flexible, and durable board that is also eco-friendly and resistant to warping.
Drop-Through Bamboo
A drop-through bamboo skateboard is a type of longboard that features a bamboo deck that is mounted through the trucks rather than on top of them. This style of longboard has a lowered center of gravity, which makes it more stable at high speeds and easier to push over long distances.
The deck of a drop-through bamboo skateboard is typically made from several layers of bamboo and fiberglass composite. This construction gives the deck added strength and flexibility while also making it lightweight. The bamboo layers provide the deck with a natural flex, while the fiberglass adds rigidity and durability.
The drop-through design of the deck allows the trucks to be mounted through the deck, rather than on top of it. This lowers the deck, making it closer to the ground, and reducing the distance between the rider’s feet and the road. This lowered center of gravity makes the longboard more stable at high speeds and easier to push over long distances.
The trucks on a drop-through bamboo skateboard are typically reversed kingpin trucks, which allow for better turning and carving. The wheels are usually larger and softer than those found on traditional skateboards, providing a smoother ride over rough surfaces and making it easier to maintain speed.
A drop-through bamboo skateboard is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a stable, comfortable ride that is suitable for long-distance cruising, commuting, and downhill riding. The combination of bamboo and fiberglass composite construction creates a strong, durable, and lightweight deck that is designed to last for years.
Bamboo Longboards
Bamboo longboards are a popular type of longboard skateboard that are made from bamboo wood. Bamboo is a type of grass that grows quickly and is considered a more sustainable and eco-friendly option than traditional maple wood.
Bamboo longboards are known for their strength, flexibility, and light weight. They are a great option for cruising, carving, and commuting, as well as for downhill and freeride riding. The flex of the bamboo provides a smooth ride and helps absorb shocks and vibrations from the road.
One popular design for bamboo longboards is the pintail shape, which is characterized by a long, narrow deck that tapers towards the front and back. This shape provides a stable ride and is great for beginners.
Another popular design is the drop-through shape, which features a cut-out section where the trucks are mounted, allowing the rider to be closer to the ground for greater stability and easier pushing. This shape is popular for downhill and freeride riding.
Bamboo longboards are also available in a variety of sizes and styles, including mini cruisers, dancing boards, and double kicktails. They can be customized with different grip tape designs and artwork, making them a unique and personalized option for riders.
Bamboo longboards are a great option for riders looking for a more eco-friendly and sustainable choice in their skateboard. They offer a smooth ride, durability, and versatility in style and design.