Skateboard Deck Materials Explained
The materials used to build a skateboard deck play a major role in how it performs, how long it lasts, and how consistent it feels. While branding and graphics vary widely, the materials used in deck construction follow a relatively standardized set of principles across the industry.
This guide explains the materials commonly used in skateboard decks, why they are chosen, and what actually matters when evaluating deck quality.
Canadian Maple and Why It’s Used
Most modern skateboard decks are made from hard rock Canadian maple. This wood has become the industry standard due to its balance of strength, flexibility, and durability.
Canadian maple is used because it:
resists snapping under repeated impact
provides predictable flex
holds shape well during pressing
performs consistently across batches
The quality of the maple and how it is processed matters more than the name printed on the deck.
Veneer Layers (Plies)
Skateboard decks are built from thin layers of wood called veneers, commonly referred to as plies.
Typical characteristics:
Most decks use 7 plies
Veneers are stacked with alternating grain direction
Grain orientation increases strength and reduces splitting
The number of plies alone does not determine quality. Veneer thickness, moisture control, and pressing consistency all influence the final result.
Glue and Bonding Materials
Adhesives play a critical role in skateboard deck construction, even though they are rarely discussed.
In general:
Industrial wood adhesives are used between plies
Glue must bond strongly while allowing controlled flex
Even application is essential to prevent delamination
Decks made with poor adhesive application may feel fine initially but fail prematurely under stress.
How Materials Affect Deck Feel
Materials influence several aspects of how a skateboard deck rides.
- Pop: influenced by veneer quality and pressing consistency
- Flex: affected by wood selection and glue properties
- Durability: dependent on both materials and construction
- Consistency: tied to material sourcing and manufacturing control
No single material determines performance on its own. The interaction between materials and manufacturing is what matters.
Alternative Materials (Less Common)
While maple remains the standard, some decks incorporate alternative materials.
Examples include:
composite layers
carbon or fiberglass reinforcement
hybrid constructions
These materials are typically used for specific performance goals or durability experiments. They are less common in standard blank skateboard decks and are not required for most skating styles.
Material Quality vs Branding
A common misconception is that branded decks automatically use better materials than blank decks.
In reality:
many blanks and branded decks use the same maple sources
material quality depends on the manufacturer, not the label
branding does not change the wood or glue used
Understanding materials helps separate performance facts from marketing claims.
For a deeper look at construction, see how skateboard decks are made.
How Materials Fit Into Choosing a Deck
When choosing a blank skateboard deck, materials should be considered alongside size, concave, and shape.
To see how these factors work together, read how to choose a blank skateboard deck.
Materials alone do not define a “good” deck, but they provide the foundation on which everything else is built.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deck Materials
Are all maple decks the same?
No. Maple quality, veneer thickness, moisture control, and processing all affect performance.
Does more plies mean a stronger deck?
Not necessarily. Strength depends on material quality and construction, not just ply count.
Do blank decks use lower quality materials?
Not inherently. Many blank decks are made from the same materials as branded decks.
Are alternative materials better than maple?
They can offer different characteristics, but maple remains the most balanced and widely used material for skateboard decks.
Learn More
For a full overview of blank skateboard decks, return to the main guide: