These are engineered platforms designed for skateboarding, typically constructed from multiple layers of wood veneer pressed together to form a durable and responsive surface. They serve as the foundation upon which all other skateboarding components are mounted, influencing the rider’s control, stability, and overall performance. For example, a longer version provides greater stability for cruising, while a shorter version enhances maneuverability for tricks.
The quality of the platform is paramount, affecting the longevity of the skateboard and the rider’s experience. Superior construction and design translate to enhanced performance, improved board feel, and increased durability, leading to a more enjoyable and sustainable skateboarding experience. Their historical development reflects advancements in materials and manufacturing processes, constantly evolving to meet the demands of diverse skateboarding styles and preferences.
The subsequent sections will delve into the specific design features, construction materials, performance characteristics, and market availability of these skateboarding platforms, providing a detailed overview for both novice and experienced skaters seeking to optimize their riding experience.
Tips
The following recommendations address key considerations when evaluating skateboarding platforms, intending to maximize performance and satisfaction.
Tip 1: Evaluate Riding Style. Selection should align with the intended skateboarding discipline, whether cruising, freestyle, or downhill. Different styles necessitate different board shapes, sizes, and flex characteristics.
Tip 2: Inspect Construction Quality. Examine the number and type of wood plies used in construction. Higher-quality wood and more plies generally indicate increased durability and responsiveness.
Tip 3: Consider Deck Shape. The shape influences board feel and maneuverability. Concave depth, kicktail angles, and overall profile should complement the rider’s preferences and riding style.
Tip 4: Assess Wheelbase Length. Wheelbase affects stability and turning radius. A longer wheelbase provides greater stability at higher speeds, while a shorter wheelbase enhances maneuverability for tighter turns.
Tip 5: Examine Graphic Application. While primarily aesthetic, the application method can impact board durability. Screen-printed graphics are generally more resistant to wear and tear than sticker-based graphics.
Tip 6: Check for Environmental Certifications. Opt for products sourced from sustainably managed forests, reflecting environmental responsibility and long-term resource management.
Tip 7: Review Hardware Compatibility. Ensure the platform is compatible with the intended trucks, wheels, and bearings. Incompatible hardware can compromise performance and safety.
Adherence to these guidelines can assist in making informed decisions, optimizing performance, and ensuring a safer, more rewarding skateboarding experience.
The subsequent conclusion will summarize the core aspects discussed and reiterate the importance of informed product selection.
1. Construction Materials
The selection of construction materials is a defining factor in the performance, durability, and overall quality of skateboarding platforms. These materials dictate the deck’s flex, strength, and ability to withstand the stresses of skateboarding.
- Maple Wood Laminates
Hard rock maple is the industry standard for skateboard construction due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and ability to provide consistent flex. Multiple plies of maple veneer are typically laminated together with glue under high pressure. The quality and arrangement of these plies significantly influence the deck’s pop, resilience, and resistance to warping. For example, strategically placed cross-grain veneers can enhance torsional stiffness.
- Bamboo Reinforcement
Bamboo is often incorporated as a supplementary material to enhance the deck’s flexibility and vibration dampening characteristics. Bamboo layers can be integrated within the maple core to create a more responsive and comfortable ride. This is particularly useful in longboards and cruisers where flexibility is desirable for carving and absorbing road imperfections. The implementation of bamboo can vary; some decks feature a single bamboo layer, while others use multiple layers strategically positioned for optimal performance.
- Epoxy Resin Adhesives
The type of adhesive used to bond the wood plies together is critical for deck integrity. High-quality epoxy resins are preferred over cheaper alternatives due to their superior bonding strength and resistance to water damage. The resin must be able to withstand the constant flexing and impact forces associated with skateboarding without delaminating. Poor adhesive quality can lead to premature deck failure, compromising safety and performance.
- Composite Materials (Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber)
Advanced materials such as fiberglass and carbon fiber are occasionally employed in high-performance skateboards to enhance stiffness, strength, and reduce weight. These composite layers can be strategically integrated within the wood core to provide targeted reinforcement. While these materials offer performance advantages, they can also increase the cost of the deck. Their application is generally reserved for specialized boards designed for downhill racing or advanced trick riding.
The interplay of these materials, from the core maple plies to the adhesive resins, determines the overall performance envelope. Careful consideration of material selection and manufacturing processes is essential for producing skateboarding platforms that meet the demands of various riding styles and skill levels. Furthermore, the trend toward sustainable materials is increasingly influencing design, promoting the use of responsibly sourced wood and eco-friendly adhesives.
2. Deck Shape
Deck shape is a fundamental characteristic determining the functionality and intended use of skateboarding platforms. Within the range of these skateboarding platforms, the shape directly influences factors such as stability, maneuverability, and the rider’s ability to perform specific tricks. A symmetrical shape, for instance, facilitates riding in either direction, advantageous for freestyle and trick-oriented skateboarding. Conversely, directional shapes, common in longboards and downhill boards, prioritize stability at higher speeds and are less conducive to trick performance. Therefore, the shape’s contribution to the overall riding experience is significant.
The effects of specific shapes are evident in various skateboarding disciplines. A board with a deep concave and steep kicktails enables more aggressive grip and control for executing technical flip tricks. In contrast, a flat or mildly concave deck, coupled with a longer wheelbase, offers enhanced stability for cruising or downhill riding. The selection of deck shape is thus a deliberate choice based on the rider’s preferred style. Moreover, advanced shaping techniques, such as asymmetric designs and unconventional concave profiles, aim to fine-tune the board’s response and cater to niche riding preferences.
In summation, deck shape is not merely an aesthetic attribute but rather a critical design element. It influences performance characteristics and determines the suitability of a particular skateboarding platform for different riding styles. Understanding the relationship between shape and functionality is essential for selecting a skateboarding platform that meets individual needs and enhances the overall skating experience. The future likely holds further shape innovations, continuously refining the interaction between rider and board.
3. Concavity
Concavity, the subtle curvature across the width of a skateboarding platform, significantly influences a rider’s control and board feel. This design element is not merely an aesthetic choice; it provides leverage and tactile feedback, enhancing the rider’s ability to execute maneuvers. Deeper concavity generally translates to a more pronounced edge, enabling the rider to apply pressure more effectively during turns and flip tricks. Conversely, shallower concavity offers a more relaxed feel, suitable for cruising or riders who prefer greater foot freedom. The specific degree and style of concavity are engineered into the platform to cater to different skateboarding disciplines and rider preferences. For example, models intended for technical street skating typically feature deeper, more aggressive concavity profiles.
Variations in concavity, such as radial, progressive, and W-concave, further refine the platform’s performance characteristics. Radial concavity provides a consistent, rounded edge across the deck, offering predictable grip and control. Progressive concavity gradually increases in steepness toward the edges, creating a more pronounced pocket for the rider’s feet. W-concave incorporates a central spine that runs lengthwise down the deck, enhancing torsional stiffness and providing additional support for the arches of the feet. These design variations illustrate the sophisticated engineering involved in optimizing the skateboarding platform for specific performance needs.
Ultimately, concavity is a critical design parameter. The appropriate selection optimizes performance and comfort. Understanding the effects of different concavity profiles allows riders to select a board that complements their riding style and enhances their control. As skateboarding evolves, expect to see even more innovative concavity designs emerge, further blurring the line between board and rider.
4. Flexibility
Flexibility, as a characteristic inherent to skateboarding platforms, directly influences ride quality, maneuverability, and the suitability of a board for specific skateboarding disciplines. The degree of flex present in a platform is determined by factors such as material composition, board thickness, and overall design, and it significantly impacts how the board responds to rider input and terrain variations.
- Material Composition and Flex
The constituent materials, particularly wood type and layering configuration, dictate the inherent flex properties of a skateboarding platform. Maple, a common material, provides a balance of strength and stiffness. The addition of materials like bamboo or fiberglass can either increase or decrease flex depending on their placement within the platform’s structure. Boards incorporating vertically laminated bamboo, for instance, exhibit enhanced longitudinal flex, suitable for carving and cruising.
- Board Thickness and Responsiveness
Thinner platforms generally exhibit greater flexibility compared to thicker counterparts, provided the material composition remains constant. This increased flex translates to enhanced responsiveness, allowing riders to achieve tighter turns and greater board feel. However, excessively thin platforms may compromise durability and stability, particularly at higher speeds or under significant rider weight. Therefore, a balance between thickness and material properties is crucial.
- Riding Style and Flex Preference
The ideal degree of flexibility is contingent upon the intended riding style. Cruising and carving benefit from moderate to high flex, as the board conforms to the terrain, providing a smoother ride. Conversely, technical street skating and park riding often necessitate stiffer platforms that offer enhanced stability and pop for executing tricks. Downhill skateboarding prioritizes minimal flex to maintain control at high speeds.
- Longitudinal vs. Torsional Flex
Flexibility can manifest along different axes. Longitudinal flex, occurring along the length of the board, affects carving and pumping. Torsional flex, or twist, influences edge control and responsiveness during turns. The interplay between these flex characteristics shapes the overall riding experience. Skateboarding platform design seeks to optimize these flex properties to match the demands of the intended discipline.
The consideration of flexibility within skateboarding platforms is essential for aligning equipment characteristics with riding style and performance objectives. It is a key factor in determining ride quality, board responsiveness, and overall control. Advanced platform designs often incorporate variable flex profiles to optimize performance across a range of riding conditions. Careful evaluation of flexibility characteristics is vital for selecting equipment that meets individual rider preferences and maximizes the skateboarding experience.
5. Wheelbase
Wheelbase, defined as the distance between the innermost mounting holes of the front and rear trucks on a skateboarding platform, is a critical determinant of stability, turning radius, and overall handling characteristics. The wheelbase dimension interacts directly with the design and intended use of skateboarding platforms, influencing performance across diverse riding styles.
- Stability and High-Speed Control
A longer wheelbase generally enhances stability, particularly at higher speeds. The increased distance between the trucks provides a more stable platform, reducing the likelihood of speed wobbles and improving control during downhill runs. Skateboarding platforms designed for downhill racing or long-distance cruising typically feature extended wheelbases to maximize stability.
- Maneuverability and Turning Radius
Conversely, a shorter wheelbase promotes greater maneuverability and a tighter turning radius. The reduced distance between the trucks allows for quicker and more responsive turns, making the platform suitable for street skating, park riding, and technical maneuvers. Skateboarding platforms intended for trick-oriented riding often feature shorter wheelbases to facilitate rapid changes in direction.
- Rider Stance and Weight Distribution
The wheelbase dimension influences the rider’s stance and weight distribution on the platform. A longer wheelbase may require a wider stance, while a shorter wheelbase encourages a more compact stance. Optimal weight distribution is crucial for maintaining balance and control, and the wheelbase should be selected to accommodate the rider’s natural stance and riding style.
- Deck Length and Proportionality
The wheelbase is directly related to the overall length of the skateboarding platform. Generally, longer decks feature longer wheelbases, and shorter decks feature shorter wheelbases. Maintaining a proportional relationship between deck length and wheelbase is essential for achieving balanced handling characteristics. An excessively short wheelbase on a long deck, or vice versa, can compromise stability and control.
The selection of an appropriate wheelbase is integral to optimizing performance and tailoring skateboarding platforms to specific riding styles. Wheelbase considerations must factor into material selection, the deck shape, and desired level of stability or maneuverability. A comprehensive understanding of wheelbase dynamics contributes to informed product selection and a more rewarding skateboarding experience.
6. Graphic Application
Graphic application on skateboarding platforms, including those manufactured by Arbor, extends beyond mere aesthetics; it constitutes a crucial aspect of brand identity, product differentiation, and, to a lesser extent, deck durability. The graphics themselves, and the methods by which they are applied, are important considerations within the skateboarding industry.
- Screen Printing and Layering Effects
Screen printing, a common method, involves applying ink directly to the wood veneer through a mesh stencil. This process allows for vibrant colors and intricate designs. The number of layers used in screen printing can influence the graphic’s longevity. Multiple layers provide greater resistance to abrasion from shoes and environmental factors, whereas single-layer applications may be more susceptible to wear. Screen-printed graphics are prevalent across a range of skateboarding platforms due to their relative cost-effectiveness and versatility.
- Heat Transfer and Image Resolution
Heat transfer techniques involve printing a design onto a transfer paper, which is then applied to the deck using heat and pressure. This method enables high-resolution graphics and photographic imagery to be applied to skateboarding platforms. However, heat-transferred graphics tend to be less durable than screen-printed designs, as the graphic exists as a surface layer and is more vulnerable to scratching and peeling. The quality of the transfer paper and the application process are critical factors in determining the graphic’s lifespan.
- Inlaid Graphics and Material Integration
More advanced graphic application methods involve inlaying designs directly into the wood veneer. This can be achieved through laser cutting, CNC milling, or other precision manufacturing processes. Inlaid graphics offer superior durability, as the design is integral to the deck’s structure. However, this method is more complex and expensive, and is typically reserved for high-end or limited-edition skateboarding platforms. Inlaid graphics also allow for the integration of different wood species to create visually striking patterns.
- Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Inks
Environmental considerations are increasingly influencing graphic application practices. Manufacturers are adopting eco-friendly inks and water-based coatings to minimize the environmental impact of the production process. These inks are formulated to be less toxic and to reduce volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. Furthermore, some manufacturers are exploring the use of sustainably sourced materials for transfer papers and stencils. The adoption of sustainable practices aligns with a growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.
In summary, graphic application on skateboarding platforms encompasses a range of techniques, each with its own advantages and disadvantages regarding aesthetics, durability, and environmental impact. The selection of a particular graphic application method reflects a trade-off between cost, performance, and sustainability, influencing both the visual appeal and the long-term value of the skateboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address common inquiries regarding skateboarding platforms, aiming to provide clarity and informed perspectives on their attributes and applications.
Question 1: What distinguishes these skateboarding platforms from other brands?
These platforms differentiate through a commitment to sustainable materials, unique construction methodologies, and distinctive design aesthetics. A focus on using sustainably harvested wood and incorporating environmentally conscious manufacturing processes sets them apart. Their designs frequently emphasize natural wood grain patterns and clean, minimalist graphics.
Question 2: What is the expected lifespan of a platform from Arbor?
The lifespan of a skateboarding platform is contingent upon usage frequency, riding style, and terrain conditions. With proper care and maintenance, a typical platform may last from one to three years. However, aggressive riding styles and frequent use on rough surfaces can accelerate wear and tear, reducing its lifespan.
Question 3: Are they suitable for beginner skaters?
These skateboarding platforms offer options suitable for skaters of all skill levels, including beginners. It is crucial to select a platform with appropriate dimensions and flex characteristics based on individual size, weight, and riding style. Softer flex patterns are often recommended for beginners, as they offer greater stability and forgiveness.
Question 4: How does the brand’s commitment to sustainability affect the price?
The use of sustainable materials and environmentally conscious manufacturing processes may contribute to a slightly higher price point compared to conventional skateboarding platforms. This reflects the added cost associated with sourcing sustainable materials and implementing responsible production practices. Consumers should view the increased price as an investment in environmental stewardship.
Question 5: Can the graphics on a platform affect its performance or durability?
The graphic application method can have a minor impact on a platform’s durability. Screen-printed graphics generally offer greater resistance to wear and tear compared to heat-transferred graphics. However, the primary determinant of a platform’s performance and durability remains its construction quality and material composition.
Question 6: What warranty coverage is offered on Arbor skate decks?
Warranty coverage typically extends to manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. The specific terms and duration of the warranty vary. Damages resulting from normal wear and tear, misuse, or modifications are generally not covered. Consumers should consult the warranty documentation for complete details.
In summary, understanding the nuances of the manufacturing, construction and proper usage is important for a long-lasting skateboard.
The following section offers an overall summary of the main points above.
Arbor Skate Decks
This exploration has illuminated the key attributes of these skateboarding platforms, encompassing construction materials, shape variations, concavity profiles, flexibility characteristics, wheelbase dynamics, and graphic application methods. Each element contributes significantly to the overall performance and suitability of the platform for diverse skateboarding disciplines. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for informed product selection.
The ongoing evolution of skateboarding platform technology suggests a continued refinement of design principles and manufacturing processes. Informed decisions, based on a synthesis of technical knowledge and individual riding preferences, will ultimately optimize the skateboarding experience. Further research and experimentation may unlock additional performance enhancements and promote sustainable practices within the skateboarding industry, for the benefit of both riders and the environment.
