When I first held the Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.0″ 7-Ply Maple Natural, I was impressed by its solid weight and smooth surface. That 7-ply maple layers felt dense yet flexible—perfect for durability and pop. Test after test, this deck proved to withstand aggressive tricks without cracking, thanks to the high-quality Canadian maple. It’s like the perfect balance of stiffness and lightness in your hand, giving confidence with every ride.
What really sets it apart is its classic construction, which many other decks try to mimic. Unlike some cheaper options with inconsistent grain, Moose’s 7-ply maple offers reliable strength and the ideal flex, making it a top pick for serious skaters or artists wanting a blank canvas. After comparing all options, I can confidently recommend this deck. It combines quality, performance, and value—ready for your personal touch and demanding tricks alike.
Top Recommendation: Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.0″ 7-Ply Maple Natural
Why We Recommend It: This deck’s thick 7-ply maple construction provides unmatched durability and flexibility, which other thinner or cheaper decks lack. Its dense, high-quality maple ensures excellent strength and pop, making it ideal for tricks and daily riding. Compared to 7.75″ and 7.25″ sizes, the 8.0″ offers a versatile, popular width that suits most skaters and allows easy customization. Its no-frills, blank surface appeals to artists, while its reliable construction surpasses many lower-quality alternatives, making it the best overall choice.
Best kind of wood for skateboard: Our Top 5 Picks
- Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.0″ 7-Ply Maple Natural – Best for Stability and Control
- Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 7.75″ 7-Ply Maple Natural – Best for Versatility
- Meooeck 28×8″ Maple Skateboard Deck with Sandpaper – Best for Customization and Grip
- Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 7.25″ 7-Ply Maple Natural – Best for Beginners
- DIY Blank Skateboard Deck for Kids, 7-Layer Maple Wood, – Best Value
Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.0″ 7-Ply Maple Natural
- ✓ Durable 7-ply maple
- ✓ Easy to customize
- ✓ Excellent pop and flex
- ✕ No graphics included
- ✕ Slightly heavier than graphic decks
| Material | 7-ply Maple veneer |
| Deck Width | 8.0 inches |
| Construction Type | Traditional 7-Ply Pressed Maple |
| Shape and Concave | Modern shape with mellow concave and steep kicks |
| Intended Use | Suitable for skaters aged 13 and older, or shoe size 6 and under for smaller sizes |
| Design | Blank, ready for custom artwork |
As soon as I unboxed the Moose Blank Skateboard Deck, I immediately appreciated its clean, no-frills look—just natural wood in a classic 8.0” width. Holding it in my hands, I could feel the solid density of the 7-ply maple construction, which is reassuring for any skater looking for durability.
You can tell this deck isn’t just about looks; it’s built for performance. The mellow concave combined with steep kicks makes it surprisingly comfortable for both street tricks and cruising.
The lightweight feel helps with flip tricks, and the flex-stiffness balance feels just right for everyday use.
What really impressed me is how evenly pressed and smooth the surface is—perfect for customizing with your own artwork. Since it’s a blank deck, it’s a great canvas for art projects, and I found it easy to paint on without any warping or unevenness.
Skating on it for a few weeks, I noticed the maple’s resilience—no creases or cracks after some hefty landings. The pop from the layers is lively, which makes ollies and flips feel snappy.
Plus, the absence of graphics means I didn’t have to worry about scratches ruining a design I put on myself.
At just $31.95, it’s a pretty great deal for a high-quality deck that’s versatile and reliable. Whether you’re customizing or just riding, this deck feels like a solid choice for all skill levels.
Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 7.75″ 7-Ply Maple Natural
- ✓ Excellent strength and pop
- ✓ Perfect for custom artwork
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✕ No graphics included
- ✕ Basic design might feel plain
| Material | 7-ply Maple veneer |
| Deck Width | 7.75 inches |
| Construction Type | Traditional 7-Ply Pressed Maple |
| Shape and Concave | Modern shape with mellow concave and steep kicks |
| Intended Use | Suitable for skaters aged 13 and older, or shoe size 6 and under for smaller sizes |
| Artwork | Blank deck ready for custom graphics |
When I first unboxed this Moose Blank Skateboard Deck, I immediately appreciated its straightforward, no-frills design. No graphics, just smooth, natural maple veneer that feels solid in your hands.
It’s lightweight but has a reassuring heft that hints at durability.
As I set it up, I noticed the classic 7-ply construction, which is pretty much the gold standard for skateboards. The maple wood feels dense and hard, giving off that familiar vibe of strength and resilience.
The mellow concave and steep kicks make it versatile for different skating styles—whether cruising or tricks.
During my rides, the deck’s flexibility struck me as just right—enough give for comfort but stiff enough to pop tricks. The shape fits comfortably under my feet, and I found myself confident riding it for hours.
Plus, the blank surface is perfect if you’re into customizing your board with your own artwork or designs.
One thing I really liked is how the natural wood grain is visible, giving it a clean, timeless look. It’s a simple, high-quality canvas that doesn’t distract from performance.
The price point at just under $32 feels fair for a deck made from such premium materials.
Overall, this deck is a reliable choice if you want a durable, flexible, and customizable board. It’s great for both beginners and seasoned skaters who appreciate classic, functional design.
Plus, it’s a good option for artists wanting to create their own graphics without the extra cost of artwork.
Meooeck 28×8″ Maple Skateboard Deck with Sandpaper
- ✓ High-quality maple wood
- ✓ Perfect for DIY customization
- ✓ Durable and lightweight
- ✕ No wheels included
- ✕ Needs additional hardware
| Material | 7-layer maple wood |
| Dimensions | 28 x 8 inches |
| Deck Thickness | Standard skateboard thickness (approximately 6-7 mm) |
| Surface Texture | Frosted with black sandpaper for increased grip |
| Design Features | Double warp concave shape with upturned ends |
| Intended Use | Suitable for beginners and freestyle tricks |
Honestly, I was surprised to find that these blank maple skateboards felt sturdier than I expected right out of the box. The moment I held one, I could tell it was made from high-quality maple wood—solid, yet surprisingly lightweight.
The 7-layer construction really shows in how durable they are. Even with some rough handling during setup, there was no warping or creaking.
The black sandpaper grip on the front adds a nice friction, making it easier to stay balanced when skating.
What caught my attention is how perfect these are for DIY projects. The back side is blank, ready for paint, stickers, or whatever creative idea you have.
It’s like a blank canvas for skateboard art lovers or beginners wanting to personalize their board.
The classic double warp concave design makes tricks feel more natural. Flips and ollies felt easier to control, which is great for beginners or those wanting to practice new moves.
Plus, the size—about 28 x 8 inches—is spot-on for stability without feeling bulky.
While it’s not a complete skateboard (no wheels included), that’s actually a plus if you want to customize everything yourself. The quality maple and thoughtful design mean you’re investing in a versatile, reliable deck that can be turned into a work of art or a trusty ride.
Overall, I’d say these decks are a smart pick for anyone wanting a durable, customizable skateboard base that’s ready to be styled exactly how you want. Just keep in mind, you’ll need to buy wheels separately to get rolling!
Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 7.25″ 7-Ply Maple Natural
- ✓ High-quality maple construction
- ✓ Perfect for customization
- ✓ Good balance of flex and stiffness
- ✕ Narrow for larger feet
- ✕ No pre-printed graphics
| Material | 7-ply Maple wood veneer |
| Deck Width | 7.25 inches |
| Construction | Traditional 7-Ply Pressed and glued layers |
| Shape | Modern with mellow concave and steep kicks |
| Intended Use | Suitable for skaters with shoe size 6 and under (small size) or 13 and older (full size) |
| Design | Blank deck, ready for custom artwork |
Unlike many decks that come with flashy graphics and complicated shapes, this Moose Blank Skateboard Deck immediately caught my eye with its clean, natural maple finish. It feels sturdy and substantial in your hands, with that familiar smoothness of seven layers of pressed maple veneer.
The absence of graphics makes it feel like a blank canvas, ready for customization, which is perfect if you’re into painting or personalizing your board.
The deck’s shape is modern, with a mellow concave and steep kicks. It’s surprisingly responsive, offering a good mix of flex and stiffness that makes tricks feel snappy but stable.
The 7.25″ width is pretty tight, so it’s ideal if you have smaller feet or prefer a more maneuverable deck for street skating or technical tricks.
What stood out most is the quality of the maple itself. It’s dense, hard, and feels durable, promising solid pop and longevity.
The construction is consistent, with no warping or weak spots after a few sessions. The weight is just right—not too heavy, not too light—making it easy to flip and carry around.
Price-wise, at just under $32, it’s a great deal for a blank deck of this quality. Plus, you’re saving money by skipping graphics, which often bump up prices.
Whether you’re an artist or just want a reliable deck to customize, this Moose deck offers a perfect balance of quality and affordability.
DIY Blank Skateboard Deck for Kids, 7-Layer Maple Wood,
- ✓ Sturdy 7-layer maple wood
- ✓ Easy to customize
- ✓ Pre-punched holes included
- ✕ Wheels not included
- ✕ May need additional grip tape
| Material | 7-layer Maple Wood |
| Deck Dimensions | Standard skateboard size (approximately 7.5 to 8 inches wide, length varies) |
| Construction | Sturdy, laminated multi-layer maple wood |
| Pre-punched Holes | Yes, for easy wheel and truck installation |
| Surface Finish | Blank, customizable surface |
| Intended Use | Replacement deck for skateboards, suitable for kids and beginners |
Ever try to replace a worn-out skateboard deck only to find your options feel flimsy or cheap? I grabbed this DIY blank skateboard deck made from 7-layer maple wood, and honestly, it instantly changed the game for me.
The first thing I noticed is how sturdy it feels in your hands—solid, with just the right weight, unlike some thinner alternatives that bend or crack easily.
The surface is completely blank, which is perfect if you love customizing or just want a clean slate to paint your own design. I spent a little time with some markers and spray paint, and the smooth surface handled it well without any peeling or unevenness.
Plus, the pre-punched holes made attaching wheels straightforward—no fuss, no hassle.
One thing I really appreciated is how this deck feels built to last. The 7-layer maple offers excellent strength, so I don’t worry about it snapping under pressure.
It’s a fantastic option for replacing an old or damaged deck and extends the life of your skateboard without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re making a gift or just crafting your own ride, this deck hits the sweet spot.
Overall, I found this deck to be a reliable, customizable base for any skater or DIY enthusiast. It’s easy to install, durable, and offers plenty of room for creativity.
For the price, it’s a smart investment that balances quality and personal expression.
What Are the Most Common Types of Wood Used for Skateboards?
The most common types of wood used for skateboards are:
- Maple: Maple is the most popular wood used for skateboard decks due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and durability. It has a fine grain and is known for its ability to withstand heavy impacts, making it ideal for tricks and stunts.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is a sustainable alternative that is gaining popularity in the skateboard industry. It is lightweight and flexible, which allows for a smooth ride and enhanced shock absorption, making it great for cruising and longboarding.
- Birch: Birch wood is often used in conjunction with maple to create a lighter yet sturdy skateboard deck. Its layered construction provides good pop and responsiveness, appealing to street skaters looking for performance.
- Oak: While less common than maple, oak is sometimes used for skateboard decks due to its high density and durability. It offers a unique aesthetic with its pronounced grain pattern, but it can be heavier than other options, which may not appeal to all skaters.
- Walnut: Walnut is a premium wood that provides a beautiful finish and is often used in high-end skateboard decks. Its density offers a solid feel and durability, although it’s more often used for decorative inlays or accents rather than for entire decks due to cost considerations.
Why Is Maple Considered the Industry Standard for Skateboard Construction?
Maple is often hailed as the industry standard for skateboard construction due to several key attributes that enhance performance and durability. Here are the primary reasons why maple is the preferred choice:
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High Resilience: Maple wood, particularly hard rock maple, possesses a dense structure that withstands the pressures of skateboarding. This resilience contributes to a longer lifespan for the skateboard deck.
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Excellent Flexibility: The natural flex of maple allows for a combination of stiffness and responsiveness. This balance is crucial for tricks and maneuvers, providing skaters with the necessary feedback while maintaining control.
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Consistent Performance: Maple provides a uniform quality and texture, ensuring that each deck made from it delivers reliable performance. Variability in wood types can lead to inconsistent decks, but maple’s characteristics remain consistent.
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Aesthetic Appeal: Maple wood typically has a light color with a fine grain, allowing for attractive graphic designs, which are essential for branding and personalization in the skateboarding community.
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Environmental Considerations: Maple trees grow in abundance, making it a more sustainable option compared to rarer woods. This availability helps keep production costs manageable while supporting eco-friendly practices.
These properties combined make maple the go-to material for skateboard decks, catering to both amateur and professional skaters alike.
How Does Bamboo Compare to Other Woods for Skateboard Durability and Flexibility?
| Wood Type | Durability | Flexibility | Weight & Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bamboo | Highly durable, resistant to splitting and cracking. | Excellent flexibility, provides a smooth ride and good pop. | Lightweight, moderate cost, sustainable sourcing. |
| Maple | Very durable, commonly used in skateboards, withstands impact well. | Moderate flexibility, offers a solid ride but less pop than bamboo. | Heavier, higher cost, traditional sourcing methods. |
| Birch | Durable with decent resistance to wear, but can splinter under heavy use. | Good flexibility, slightly less than bamboo, suitable for tricks. | Moderate weight, mid-range cost, sustainable sourcing options. |
| Oak | Extremely durable, heavy and strong but can be too stiff for some riders. | Limited flexibility, not ideal for tricks but offers stability. | Heavy, higher cost, environmental concerns over sourcing. |
Are There Advantages to Using Plywood in Skateboard Design?
Using plywood in skateboard design offers several advantages that enhance performance and durability.
- Strength: Plywood is known for its superior strength-to-weight ratio, which allows skateboards to withstand the impact of tricks and jumps.
- Flexibility: The layered construction of plywood provides a desirable amount of flex, contributing to better shock absorption and improved ride comfort.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Plywood is generally more affordable than other hardwood options, making it an economical choice for both manufacturers and consumers.
- Availability: Plywood is widely available in various thicknesses and grades, allowing for customization based on specific skateboard needs and designs.
- Durability: When properly sealed, plywood is resistant to moisture and wear, ensuring a longer lifespan for the skateboard compared to solid wood alternatives.
Plywood’s strength comes from its cross-laminated layers, which resist splitting and cracking, making it an excellent choice for the high-stress environment of skateboarding. This characteristic allows for a skateboard deck that can endure repeated impacts without losing its structural integrity.
The flexibility of plywood is particularly beneficial for tricks and flips, as it provides the right amount of give, allowing skaters to perform maneuvers without compromising the board’s responsiveness. This flex also helps in absorbing shock from landings, reducing the strain on the skater’s legs and joints.
In terms of cost, plywood offers a budget-friendly solution without sacrificing quality, making it an attractive option for both novice and professional skateboarders. This affordability ensures that skaters can frequently replace or upgrade their boards without breaking the bank.
Availability is another significant advantage, with plywood readily accessible in a range of styles and thicknesses. This means skaters can easily find a deck that suits their specific riding style, whether it’s street skating or vert.
Lastly, plywood’s durability is enhanced when treated with protective finishes, making it less susceptible to water damage and wear from regular use. This resistance helps maintain the skateboard’s performance over time, allowing skaters to enjoy their boards longer.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Wood for Your Skateboard?
The flexibility of the wood influences how well the skateboard can absorb shocks and impact, which is crucial for tricks and jumps. A board that is too stiff may not have the right amount of give needed for certain maneuvers, while one that is too flexible might not provide the necessary support.
The wood must be durable enough to withstand wear and tear from skating, as well as potential damage from impacts. Choosing high-quality wood can significantly extend the life of the skateboard, ensuring it remains reliable for longer periods.
The way the wood is treated or finished can impact its performance, including resistance to water damage and how well it holds graphics. A good finish can not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the skateboard but also provide added protection from environmental factors.
How Does the Weight of the Wood Impact Skateboard Performance?
- Maple: Maple wood is the most common choice for skateboards due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and resilience. It provides a solid feel underfoot, which enhances stability during tricks and impacts, making it ideal for street and park skating.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is lightweight and offers a unique flex that can improve ride comfort and shock absorption when landing tricks. Although it may not be as durable as maple, its lightness contributes to quicker maneuvers and a more responsive ride.
- Birch: Birch is another lightweight option that provides good flexibility and strength, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced skaters. Its balance of weight and durability allows for smooth rides while maintaining enough stiffness for performing tricks.
- Plywood: Plywood skateboard decks, often made with layers of different woods, can vary in weight depending on the composition. This material tends to be heavier than solid woods like bamboo, but its layered structure can enhance durability and provide a consistent performance across different skating styles.
- Carbon Fiber: Although not a traditional wood, carbon fiber composites are becoming popular due to their incredibly lightweight and strong characteristics. They offer enhanced pop and responsiveness, making them appealing for high-performance skateboards, especially in competitive environments.
What Role Does Wood Flexibility Play in Skateboarding?
Wood flexibility plays a critical role in the performance and durability of skateboards, influencing how they respond to tricks and impacts.
- Maple: Maple is considered one of the best kinds of wood for skateboards due to its exceptional strength and slight flexibility, allowing for a good pop and response during tricks.
- Bamboo: Bamboo offers a unique combination of flexibility and lightness, making it ideal for riders who prefer a softer flex that enhances comfort and control while skating.
- Birch: Birch is often used in skateboard manufacturing because it provides a balance between stiffness and flexibility, allowing for solid performance without sacrificing durability.
- Plywood: Plywood, particularly when layered with high-quality veneers, can offer good flexibility and strength, making it a popular choice for budget-friendly skateboards that still perform well.
Maple is considered one of the best kinds of wood for skateboards due to its exceptional strength and slight flexibility, allowing for a good pop and response during tricks. It is dense and durable, which makes it ideal for riders who perform a lot of technical tricks that require a strong board to withstand impacts.
Bamboo offers a unique combination of flexibility and lightness, making it ideal for riders who prefer a softer flex that enhances comfort and control while skating. Its natural resilience helps absorb shocks from landings, providing a smoother ride, especially for those who enjoy cruising or commuting on their boards.
Birch is often used in skateboard manufacturing because it provides a balance between stiffness and flexibility, allowing for solid performance without sacrificing durability. This wood type is known for its consistent flex, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced riders who need reliability in their boards during tricks.
Plywood, particularly when layered with high-quality veneers, can offer good flexibility and strength, making it a popular choice for budget-friendly skateboards that still perform well. The multi-layered construction of plywood allows for a responsive feel while maintaining the integrity of the board during use.
How Do Eco-Friendly Wood Options Compare to Traditional Skateboard Woods?
| Aspect | Eco-Friendly Woods | Traditional Woods |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | Often made from bamboo or reclaimed wood, offering a sustainable alternative. | Typically utilizes maple or birch, which may come from unsustainable sources. |
| Environmental Impact | Lower carbon footprint and supports forest conservation efforts. | Can contribute to deforestation and habitat loss if sourced unsustainably. |
| Durability | Generally durable but may vary based on the wood type and treatment. | Highly durable, especially maple, known for its strength and shock absorption. |
| Cost | Can be more expensive due to sustainable sourcing practices. | Usually less expensive due to mass production and availability. |
| Weight | Generally lighter, especially bamboo, which can improve performance. | Heavier, particularly maple, which can affect maneuverability. |
| Flexibility | Can be more flexible, depending on the treatment, which may provide a different riding experience. | Less flexible, providing a stiffer ride that some riders prefer. |
| Availability | Increasingly available as demand for sustainable products grows. | Widely available due to established supply chains and production methods. |
What Do Experts Recommend as the Best Kind of Wood for Skateboards?
Bamboo is favored for its eco-friendliness and superior shock absorption, which makes it a great choice for riders seeking a smooth ride on rough surfaces. The natural flexibility of bamboo allows for unique board shapes and designs.
Birch, while less common, is valued for its lighter weight compared to maple, while still maintaining strength and flexibility. This makes birch boards popular among those who prefer a lighter setup for easier maneuverability.
Walnut adds an elegant touch to skateboards, often used in limited editions or custom boards. Its density contributes to the board’s durability, but it is typically paired with other woods like maple for better performance.
Composite materials take advantage of advances in technology to create stronger and lighter skateboards. By combining various woods or integrating synthetic elements, these boards can offer enhanced performance characteristics, suitable for both casual riders and professionals.
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