Understanding 2017 Wooded Skateboard: Standards, Properties, and Applications

Types of Wooden Skateboards

A wooden skateboard remains one of the most popular choices among riders due to its natural strength, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal. As of 2017, manufacturers offer a wide range of wooden skateboard types, each crafted from different wood species that influence performance, durability, weight, and riding experience. The choice of wood significantly affects how the board handles impacts, flexes during tricks, and withstands daily wear and tear.

This guide explores the most common types of wooden skateboards available, highlighting their unique characteristics, advantages, and ideal use cases for beginners, commuters, and advanced skaters alike.

Maple Skateboards

Made from high-quality Canadian hard rock maple, these decks are the industry standard for performance skateboarding.

Advantages

• Exceptional strength and impact resistance
• Optimal balance of flexibility and stiffness
• Durable for street skating and tricks
• Widely available and well-tested technology

Limitations

• Heavier than bamboo or birch options
• Less eco-friendly due to sourcing practices
• Can be prone to delamination over time

Best for: Street skating, technical tricks, professional use

Bamboo Skateboards

Crafted from fast-growing bamboo, known for its sustainability and natural springiness.

Advantages

• Highly eco-friendly and renewable resource
• Lightweight with excellent flex and rebound
• Provides a smooth, springy ride ideal for cruising
• Natural vibration damping for comfort

Limitations

• Less rigid, not ideal for aggressive street skating
• May wear faster under heavy trick use
• Can be sensitive to moisture if not sealed properly

Best for: Cruising, carving, eco-conscious riders, longboard-style setups

Plywood (Ply) Skateboards

Constructed from multiple layers of compressed wood veneer—typically 7-ply maple—for enhanced durability and responsiveness.

Advantages

• Strong, reliable construction with proven track record
• Great balance between pop and stability
• Ideal for both beginners and pros
• Resistant to warping when properly finished

Limitations

• Weight increases with more plies
• Lower flexibility compared to bamboo
• Limited aesthetic variety unless painted or laminated

Best for: All-around use, park and street skating, learning tricks

Birch Skateboards

Birch offers a lighter yet sturdy alternative to maple, often used in hybrid or specialty decks.

Advantages

• Lightweight with good structural integrity
• Smooth surface finish ideal for graphics
• Good shock absorption and moderate flex
• Suitable for custom or boutique board designs

Limitations

• Less common, so fewer options available
• Not as impact-resistant as maple
• Rare in mass-market production

Best for: Custom builds, artistic decks, riders seeking lightweight alternatives

Walnut Skateboards

A premium hardwood choice offering luxury aesthetics and solid performance.

Advantages

• Striking natural grain and rich color
• Durable and dense wood structure
• High-end, artisanal appeal
• Excellent for display or collector’s pieces

Limitations

• Expensive due to material and craftsmanship
• Heavy compared to other woods
• Rare and typically found in limited editions

Best for: Collectors, custom artwork decks, luxury or gift boards

Expert Tip: When choosing a wooden skateboard, consider your riding style first. For technical tricks and durability, go with 7-ply maple. For a smooth, comfortable ride and environmental benefits, bamboo is an excellent option. Always check the sealant or finish—properly sealed decks last longer and resist moisture damage.

Designs of Wooden Skateboards: A Comprehensive Guide

Wooden skateboards come in a wide variety of designs, each tailored to specific riding styles, skill levels, and environments. While materials like maple, bamboo, and birch ply are commonly used, the design of the deck plays an equally crucial role in performance. From classic street setups to smooth-riding cruisers, understanding the different skateboard designs helps riders choose the right board for their needs. Below is an in-depth look at the most popular wooden skateboard designs as of 2017 and beyond.

Classic Design

The classic skateboard design is the foundation of modern skateboarding culture. Characterized by a symmetrical, rectangular deck with a flat nose and tail, this style emerged in the 1970s and remains iconic today. Typically measuring between 28 to 32 inches in length, the classic wooden skateboard offers excellent balance, control, and responsiveness.

Ideal for street and park skating, this design supports a wide range of tricks including ollies, kickflips, and grinds. Its moderate concave and standard width (7.5–8.5 inches) make it highly maneuverable. The 2017 iteration of this design often features 7-ply maple construction for durability and pop, making it a favorite among technical skaters and beginners alike.

• Deck Shape: Symmetrical with rounded nose and tail
• Material: 7-ply hard rock maple (sometimes with bamboo reinforcement)
• Best For: Street skating, tricks, park sessions
• Wheelbase: 14–16 inches for responsive turning

Penny Boards

Penny boards are compact, lightweight skateboards originally made from plastic but now widely available in sustainably sourced wood, particularly bamboo. Named after the original 22-inch plastic board from New Zealand, wooden Penny-style boards maintain the same playful, portable design while offering enhanced durability and eco-friendliness.

These boards feature a rounded, surf-inspired shape with kicktails and vibrant graphics. Their small size makes them perfect for commuting, beach cruising, or casual riding. Wooden versions often use layered bamboo for flexibility and shock absorption, providing a smoother ride than their plastic counterparts.

Note: While not traditional skateboards, Penny-style wooden boards are excellent for beginners and urban riders seeking convenience and style over technical performance.

• Length: 22–36 inches (mini to mid-size variants)
• Material: Bamboo or composite wood layers
• Best For: Short commutes, casual cruising, beginners
• Wheels: Soft, small (59–65mm) for grip and smooth roll

Longboards

Longboards are significantly longer and wider than standard skateboards, typically ranging from 33 to 59 inches in length. Designed for stability, speed, and comfort, wooden longboards excel in downhill riding, carving, and long-distance cruising.

Most 2017-era wooden longboards use a hybrid construction of bamboo and maple, combining the natural flexibility of bamboo with the strength of maple. This creates a resilient deck that dampens vibrations and absorbs road imperfections. The extended wheelbase and wider trucks enhance balance, while large, soft wheels (70mm+) ensure a smooth ride over rough surfaces.

Popular longboard shapes include pintails, drop-throughs, and top-mounts, each offering unique riding dynamics. Their elegant curves and natural wood finishes also make them visually appealing.

• Deck Shape: Pintail, drop-through, or top-mount
• Material: Bamboo-maple composite or 9-ply maple
• Best For: Downhill, carving, long-distance cruising
• Flex: Moderate to high, depending on construction

Freestyle Boards

Freestyle skateboards are engineered for versatility and technical performance. These boards feature a medium width (8–9 inches), a flexible deck, and a symmetrical shape with a rounded nose and tail, allowing for easy spinning and flipping.

Commonly constructed from 7-ply maple or a maple-bamboo blend, freestyle boards offer the perfect balance of pop and flexibility. This makes them ideal for flatground tricks, handstands, spins, and dance-like movements. The 2017 designs often include mellow concave and a slightly longer wheelbase for enhanced control during complex maneuvers.

Unlike aggressive street boards, freestyle decks prioritize smooth transitions and responsive handling, making them popular in both urban and open-space environments.

• Deck Shape: Symmetrical with rounded ends and mild concave
• Material: Maple or maple-bamboo hybrid
• Best For: Flatground tricks, skate dancing, technical routines
• Length: 31–36 inches for optimal balance

Cruisers

Cruiser skateboards bridge the gap between longboards and classic decks, offering a comfortable, stable ride for everyday use. Designed for relaxed transportation rather than tricks, wooden cruisers feature wider decks, softer wheels, and often a slight concave or drop-down shape for added comfort.

Most 2017 wooden cruiser boards are made from bamboo or a bamboo-maple composite, providing excellent shock absorption and a lightweight feel. Their larger size (30–36 inches) and softer urethane wheels (60–70mm) glide smoothly over cracks and uneven pavement, making them perfect for neighborhood rides, campus commutes, or beach trips.

With stylish wood grains and custom graphics, cruisers are as much a fashion statement as they are a functional board.

• Deck Shape: Drop-through, pintail, or mini-cruiser
• Material: Bamboo, birch, or maple composite
• Best For: Casual riding, commuting, urban cruising
• Wheels: Soft, large diameter for smooth roll and grip

Pro Tip: When choosing a wooden skateboard, consider not only the design but also your weight, skill level, and primary riding environment. A well-matched board enhances control, comfort, and longevity. Always inspect the wood for warping, delamination, or cracks before purchase, especially in humid climates.

What Makes Wooden Skateboards Durable

Wooden skateboards have remained a top choice for riders from 2017 to today due to their exceptional balance of strength, flexibility, and reliability. While modern materials and designs continue to evolve, the core construction of the traditional wooden skateboard—especially those made with high-quality maple—remains the gold standard for durability and performance.

Deck Construction & Materials

The skateboard deck is the foundation of its durability, typically built with 7 to 9 layers of compressed wood veneer. Hardrock maple is the most widely used material due to its high density, shock resistance, and natural flexibility.

• Maple Plywood: Provides excellent stiffness and resilience, maintaining structural integrity under repeated impacts and stress
• Bamboo: Offers increased flex and eco-friendliness but may lack the long-term durability of maple under aggressive use
• Birch: A more affordable alternative, though less impact-resistant and prone to delamination over time
• Resin Bonding: High-quality epoxy or phenolic resins bind the layers, preventing moisture absorption and enhancing crack resistance

Key insight: 7-ply hardrock maple decks are industry standard for a reason—optimal strength-to-weight ratio and proven longevity.

Wheels: Performance and Wear Resistance

Skateboard wheels play a crucial role in durability by absorbing road vibrations and resisting wear from constant friction. Made primarily from polyurethane (PU), modern wheels combine elasticity with long-lasting tread life.

• Urethane Quality: High-grade polyurethane resists cracking, flat-spotting, and UV degradation
• Wheel Size: Larger wheels (56–60mm+) roll smoothly over cracks and debris, reducing stress on the deck and trucks
• Hardness (Durometer): Wheels rated 99A–101A offer a balance of grip and slide, while softer wheels (78A–87A) provide better shock absorption for rough surfaces
• Core Design: Reinforced plastic cores reduce deformation and improve heat dissipation during long rides

Pro tip: Rotate wheels regularly to ensure even wear and extend usable life.

Trucks: Strength and Stability

Trucks connect the wheels to the deck and are essential for control, turning, and impact absorption. Most high-performance trucks are forged from aircraft-grade aluminum or a steel-aluminum composite.

• Aluminum Hangers: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, ideal for reducing overall board weight without sacrificing strength
• Steel Axles: Provide superior durability under heavy loads and high-impact landings
• Kingpin Design: Adjustable kingpins allow riders to customize tightness, affecting responsiveness and stability
• Reinforced Baseplates: Prevent bending or cracking during sharp turns or hard landings

Critical factor: Well-made trucks maintain alignment and reduce stress transfer to the deck, preventing premature warping.

Bearings: Smooth Rolling & Longevity

Bearings enable the wheels to spin efficiently and are a key component in maintaining performance over time. Most skateboard bearings follow the ABEC or ISO standard for precision.

• Steel Bearings: Most common; durable and affordable, especially when sealed to prevent dirt and moisture ingress
• Ceramic Bearings: Lighter, faster, and more resistant to heat and corrosion—ideal for frequent or high-speed riders
• Nylon or Composite Bearings: Less common; offer silent operation but lower load capacity
• Shielding: Rubber or metal shields protect internal components, significantly extending service life

Maintenance note: Clean and lubricate bearings every 2–3 months for optimal performance and lifespan.

Expert Insight: The most durable skateboards aren't just about high-quality materials—they result from a balanced system where each component complements the others. A premium maple deck paired with low-grade trucks or worn bearings will underperform. For best results, match component tiers: use pro-level parts for aggressive skating and reliable mid-tier gear for casual cruising.

Maximizing Skateboard Longevity: Care & Maintenance Tips

Even the most durable skateboard will degrade prematurely without proper care. Regular maintenance not only extends lifespan but also ensures consistent performance and rider safety.

• Keep It Clean: Wipe down the deck regularly and clean wheels and bearings to remove dirt and grime that accelerate wear
• Tighten Hardware: Check truck bolts and kingpin tightness weekly to maintain stability and prevent loosening from vibration
• Avoid Moisture: Never leave your board in damp or humid environments—wood can warp and metal parts may rust
• Store Properly: Keep the skateboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent UV damage and delamination
• Rotate Components: Swap wheels and flip the deck periodically to ensure even wear and prolong usability
• Inspect for Damage: Look for cracks, splinters, or bent trucks—replace parts before they compromise safety

How To Choose the Best Wooden Skateboard (Including 2017 Models)

Selecting the right wooden skateboard—especially one from a trusted year like 2017—can significantly enhance your riding experience, whether you're a beginner learning the basics or a seasoned pro refining your skills. While modern boards continue to evolve, vintage or well-preserved 2017 wooden skateboards remain popular due to their quality craftsmanship and durable materials. This guide breaks down the essential factors to consider when choosing a wooden skateboard that matches your riding style, skill level, and personal preferences.

Important Note: When purchasing a 2017 wooden skateboard, inspect for signs of wood fatigue, delamination, or water damage. Older boards may still perform well if stored properly, but structural integrity should always be verified before use.

1. Match Your Skateboard to Your Skating Style

The type of skating you plan to do is the most important factor in choosing the right board. Different styles require different board shapes, flex, and performance characteristics.

• Cruising & Commuting: Opt for a longboard or cruiser with a longer wheelbase and larger wheels. These boards offer smooth rides over pavement and are excellent for beginners getting comfortable on a board.
• Street Skating & Tricks: Choose a popsicle-shaped deck (standard symmetrical shape) or a freestyle board. These are designed for ollies, kickflips, grinds, and technical street maneuvers.
• Transition & Ramp Riding: A slightly wider popsicle or mini-cruiser with a stiffer flex works best for bowls, ramps, and vert skating, offering control at higher speeds.

Pro Tip: If you're unsure about your style, start with a versatile 7.75" to 8.0" popsicle-shaped maple deck—it’s ideal for learning tricks while still being stable enough for casual riding.

2. Understand Deck Materials and Construction

The wood used in the deck greatly affects ride quality, durability, and responsiveness. Most quality 2017 wooden skateboards were made from premium materials:

• Maple Wood (7-Ply Hard Rock Maple): The industry standard for performance skateboards. Known for its strength, stiffness, and pop, it's ideal for street skaters and professionals who need precise control and durability.
• Bamboo Wood: Often blended with maple or used in eco-friendly boards. Bamboo offers more flex and vibration absorption, making it perfect for carving, cruising, and long-distance pushing.
• Composite or Mixed Woods: Some 2017 models featured hybrid constructions (e.g., bamboo-core with maple veneers) for balanced flex and durability.

Check for: Delamination, especially in older boards. Tap the deck lightly—if you hear a hollow or bubbly sound, the plies may be separating.

3. Select the Right Deck Size for Your Needs

Deck dimensions directly impact stability, maneuverability, and trick performance.

Length & Wheelbase: Longer decks (32"+) offer better straight-line stability; shorter decks (28"-31") allow quicker turns and are easier to flip.

4. Choose the Appropriate Wheel Size and Hardness

Wheels play a crucial role in how your skateboard feels on different surfaces.

• 50mm – 54mm: Small, fast wheels ideal for smooth skate parks and technical street skating. Best for flip tricks and quick acceleration.
• 55mm – 58mm: All-purpose size for street and transition. Balances speed, control, and agility.
• 59mm – 60mm+: Larger wheels for cruising, rough pavement, or longboards. Roll over cracks and pebbles easily.

Wheel Hardness (Durometer):

• 78A–87A: Soft wheels—great for outdoor cruising, rough surfaces, and shock absorption.
• 88A–95A: Medium hardness—ideal for street skating on varied terrain.
• 96A–101A: Hard wheels—best for indoor parks and smooth concrete; offer speed and precision.

5. Prioritize Safety Gear—It’s Non-Negotiable

No matter your skill level, safety gear is essential when riding any skateboard, especially older models that may behave unpredictably.

• Helmets: Certified (CPSC or ASTM) skate helmets reduce head injury risk by up to 85%.
• Knee and Elbow Pads: Protect joints during falls, especially when learning new tricks.
• Wrist Guards: Highly recommended—wrist injuries are among the most common in skateboarding.
• Grip Tape: Ensure your deck has intact, non-slip grip tape to maintain foot control.

Buying a 2017 Wooden Skateboard? Look for reputable brands like Element, Arbor, Real, Baker, or Santa Cruz. Check for original packaging, manufacturer stamps, and verify that trucks and bearings are serviceable or replaceable. Consider rebuilding the setup with new wheels and hardware for optimal performance.

Final Recommendations

• Test ride if possible—or ask for detailed photos and videos of the board in action.
• Avoid boards with visible cracks, warping, or separated plies.
• Store wooden skateboards in a dry, temperature-controlled environment to prevent warping.
• Replace old grip tape and hardware for improved safety and performance.
• Consider customizing an older 2017 deck with new components to give it a second life.

Choosing the right wooden skateboard comes down to understanding your riding goals and matching them with the right combination of deck material, size, wheels, and safety features. Whether you're hunting for a vintage 2017 gem or building a retro setup, paying attention to these details ensures a safer, smoother, and more enjoyable ride. Remember: the best board is the one that fits your style, supports your growth, and keeps you rolling safely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wooden Skateboards

When considering a high-quality wooden skateboard from 2017, maple and bamboo decks stand out as the top choices due to their durability, performance, and long-term reliability.

• Maple Wood Decks: Made from hard rock maple, typically 7-ply layers glued with strong epoxy resins, these boards offer exceptional strength and resilience. Their rigidity provides excellent pop for tricks, while still maintaining slight flexibility for shock absorption—ideal for street skating and technical riding.
• Bamboo Decks: Known for their natural flexibility and lightweight construction, bamboo boards are perfect for casual cruising and longboard-style riding. They absorb vibrations better than maple, offering a smoother ride on rough surfaces.
• 2017 Models: Many reputable brands released durable models that year, including boards from Arbor, Sector 9, and Loaded. Look for decks with sealed finishes and reinforced edges to prevent moisture damage and delamination over time.

If you're purchasing a used 2017 board, inspect it for cracks, warping, or worn-out glue layers. A well-maintained maple or bamboo skateboard from this era can still perform excellently today.

Extending the lifespan of your wooden skateboard involves proper care, regular maintenance, and mindful storage. Here’s how to keep your deck in top condition:

• Store Properly: Keep your skateboard in a cool, dry place away from humidity and direct sunlight. Moisture can cause warping or delamination, while UV rays degrade the wood and adhesive layers.
• Avoid Wet Surfaces: Never ride in rain or on wet pavement. Water seeps into the wood fibers, weakening the structure and leading to cracks or bubbling graphics.
• Maintain Hardware: Regularly check and tighten the truck bolts (kingpin and baseplate) to prevent loosening from vibration and impact. Loose trucks affect control and can stress the deck.
• Clean Wheels & Bearings: Remove dirt and debris from wheels weekly. Clean bearings every few months using degreaser and lubricant to ensure smooth rolling and reduce strain on the board.
• Rotate Your Deck: If you ride frequently, rotate the deck occasionally (front to back) to promote even wear, especially if you favor one side for foot placement.

With consistent care, a quality wooden skateboard can last several years—even longer than cheaper composite alternatives.

Urethane is the standard material for modern skateboard wheels due to its superior balance of durability, grip, and ride comfort. Here's why it's the preferred choice:

• Shock Absorption: Polyurethane has elastic properties that absorb vibrations from rough surfaces, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride compared to rigid materials like plastic or metal.
• Traction & Grip: It offers excellent grip on various surfaces, reducing slippage during turns and stops. This enhances rider safety and control, especially at higher speeds.
• Durability: High-quality urethane resists abrasion and chipping, maintaining wheel shape and performance over extended use.
• Versatility: Available in different durometers (hardness levels), urethane allows customization—softer wheels (78A–85A) for cruising and rough terrain, harder ones (88A–101A) for street skating and precision tricks.
• Rebound Characteristics: Good urethane returns energy efficiently, helping maintain momentum with less pushing effort.

Invented in the 1970s, urethane revolutionized skateboarding by replacing clay and metal wheels, making the sport safer, faster, and more accessible.

Maple and bamboo are favored for skateboard decks due to their unique mechanical properties that align perfectly with the demands of skateboarding:

Most professional-grade decks use 7-ply Canadian hard rock maple, pressed under high heat and pressure for maximum durability. Bamboo is often combined with fiberglass or epoxy for added strength in hybrid models. Both materials are renewable and sustainable, making them environmentally responsible choices for eco-conscious riders.

Skateboard bearings enable smooth wheel rotation and are typically made from steel, ceramic, or nylon—each offering distinct advantages based on performance needs and budget:

• Steel Bearings: The most common type, made from high-carbon or chrome steel. They are durable, affordable, and capable of handling high speeds and impacts. Most come rated with the ABEC system (e.g., ABEC-7 or ABEC-9) indicating precision, though real-world performance also depends on seals and lubrication.
• Ceramic Bearings: Feature silicon nitride balls that are lighter, harder, and more resistant to heat and corrosion than steel. They generate less friction, resulting in faster roll and longer lifespan. Ideal for serious skaters and downhill riders, though more expensive.
• Nylon (Plastic) Bearings: Often found in entry-level or toy-grade skateboards. Lightweight and rustproof, but lack durability and speed. Not recommended for regular or advanced use.

Regardless of material, proper maintenance—cleaning, drying, and re-lubricating—is essential for optimal performance. Sealed bearings help protect against dirt and moisture, extending bearing life significantly. For best results, choose reputable brands like Bones, Bronson, or Zealous that meet ISO standards for precision and safety.