Ever smashed a deck in the heat of a sesh? It’s a nightmare, especially if you’re pretty much always strapped for cash. Thankfully, the skateboarding world is filled with tech heads just like us, constantly seeking solutions so we can shred harder and longer. In this post, you’ll discover the strongest skateboard deck in the world—the weapon of choice for those insatiable shredding urges! Let’s dive in and explore the strong and the weak.
What makes a deck strong?
The strength of a skateboard deck largely depends on its materials. Slap on some maple wood and carbon fiber, throw in a dash of hybrid polymer, and you’ve got a recipe for a beast of a deck. In perspective, it’s like going from a Ford Pinto to a Tesla Cybertruck in terms of resilience.
- Maple wood: Maple wood is the standard material, but not all maple woods are created equal.
- Carbon fiber: This upgrade is lightweight but adds a surprising amount of strength.
- Hybrid polymer: This is the cherry on top. It reinforces the tails and noses, making them less likely to chip or razor-tail.
Now, I’m no Tony Hawk, but I’ve done enough damage to decks over my skating years that I always look for these features when I’m in the market for a new ride. I’m sure I’m not alone in this. Has anyone else broken a deck right out of the box? Yeah, we really don’t want to repeat that.
What are the ten most durable skateboard decks?
Not all decks are created equal, and some are built to last. So whether you’re a skatepark regular or a street terrain conqueror like Rodriguez, you need a deck that can keep up with your tricks and skateboarding style. Let’s explore the top ten most durable decks that’ll hold up even under the most aggressive skateboarding.
1. Lithe slate, 3-deck
Now, let’s start with the deck that’s rewriting the shred-iquette—the Lithe Slate 3. In terms of durability, it’s the kingpin. Launched on Indiegogo and made available to the public in limited quantity, it’s certainly worth your attention.
It’s sturdy and uniquely made with carbon fiber, maple wood, and a hybrid polymer. The Lithe Slate 3 claims to last up to 8 times longer and the tail up to 15 times longer than regular 7-ply decks. Surprisingly lightweight with an everlasting pop, this deck is undoubtedly the future. If you’re a skater who lives on their board or someone whose signature move is a coffee grinder, this deck is worth the investment.
2. Lithe slate 2
The Lithe Slate 2 is another killer choice, with performance and strength attributes quite unmatched in the industry. It cuts with its balance of strength, lifespan, weight, and mid-air swag.
The Lithe Slate 2 leverages the same technology as the Lithe Slate 3, making it an excellent choice for anyone intending to put their board through the wringer. Far from the traditional brittle deck, it’s pretty much designed to withstand those unexpected mid-air blues and offer a smooth, killer ride.
3. Powell-Peralta flight deck
At less than half the price of the Lithe Slate 2, the Powell-Peralta Flight Deck brings strong competition to the table. It’s one tough cookie, perfect for heavy skaters or those who sometimes find their landing a little sketchy.
This deck is exceptionally sturdy and made with two 19-ounce triaxial fiberglass layers, black epoxy, and ten layers of maple wood. This deck guarantees a smooth ride, featuring great pop that doesn’t fade with use. Ensuring value for money, the Powell Peralta Flight Deck lives up to its reputation as a heavy-duty performer.
4. Lib tech decks
Lib Tech Decks are a solid choice for more budget-friendly options that don’t compromise durability. These decks are gene-spliced from the same DNA as high-end alternatives.
With a focus on affordability and durability, Lib Tech Decks are relatively thick and solid under your feet. Rebelling against the tradition of 7-ply maple wood decks, the manufacturers incorporate unique materials that provide a strong deck that isn’t a heavyweight.
5. Emillion decks
Last on the list, but definitely not a pushover, are the Emillion Decks. Combining affordability, durability, and performance is another worth checking into.
Emillion has made quite a name for itself in the skateboarding community. Their decks blend the resilience of high-priced models with the affordability that makes the sport accessible to everyone. After all, we all started somewhere, right? These decks give skaters of all levels the confidence to push boundaries without the fear of snapping apart mid-trick.
We’ve got you covered if you’re still unsure where to start. Check out this guide on assembling a skateboard and the various skateboard types explained to help you make the best choice. Skate on, folks! It’s all about finding the perfect ride to match your style.
6. Alien workshop decks
Known for their iconic alien-based graphics, Alien Workshop Decks extend their attention to detail into the durability of their boards, too. These aren’t just cool-looking decks; they’re built to last, making them popular among skaters.
Offering a wide range of designs and shapes, Alien Workshops Decks cater effectively to a skater’s style and preference. They use high-quality materials, ensuring both the deck’s strength and performance. If you’re looking for visually appealing, durable decks, Alien Workshop should definitely make your shortlist.
7. Zero skateboard decks
We can’t leave out Zero Skateboard Decks when discussing strength and durability. The brand is as hardcore as its logo—a skull on a board.
Renowned for pop and durability, these decks stand up to some serious abuse. Whether you’re an intermediate skater like me or a pro, you’ll appreciate the feel and strength of Zero Decks. My experience with the Zero deck was insane; hands down, it was one of the best boards I’ve had!
8. Plan B skateboards
Plan B boards offer a solid combination of pop, strength, and durability. Unsurprisingly, they’ve become a favorite among many skaters worldwide.
What I found interesting about these decks is the pop—it’s just amazing. They also maintain their shape well even after months of rough use. If you’re on a budget but still want a durable deck, Plan B won’t disappoint.
9. Element skateboard decks
Element skateboard decks are known for their sustainability and durability. They live up to their motto, “Wind, Water, Fire, and Earth.”
The cool part is that Element decks are made with the company’s featherlight technology, resulting in lightweight but durable decks. Its thriftwood construction uses less glue and more wood, resulting in a stronger deck. If you’re environmentally conscious and value durability, Element is your deck.
10. Enjoi skateboard decks
To wrap up our list, Enjoi holds its place firmly, with its decks scoring high on durability and overall performance. Plus, who can resist the playful Panda logo? Enjoi decks use Resin-7 Epoxy, a glue used to hold the ply together with fewer materials but greater strength—the result is a high-performance deck that can take plenty of beatings without letting you down.
Deck-choosing tips
Even after choosing a durable deck, there are additional things you can do to ensure you make the most of your board.
- Invest in quality grip tape. Regardless of how durable your deck is, good grip tape improves control and extends the lifespan of your board.
- Always check the deck size. The wrong size might lead to accidents and premature breakage.
- Take note of the trucks and wheels. A good deck with poor trucks or wheels lowers the overall performance.
My take on durable skateboard decks
Now, here’s my two cents: picking a durable skateboard deck isn’t always easy, especially when you’re an intermediate skater who is always on the hunt to learn more tricks. I’ve learned over time that a durable deck doesn’t just mean less board damage; it also roughly translates to fewer injuries. Yes, that’s right—fewer twisted ankles and knee scrapes, folks.
“Skating is as much about the ride as it about the board. So, choose wisely and shred on!”
I remember buying a new deck (my wallet wasn’t really happy about it), and guess what? I broke it in an hour! This was disheartening, but I guess it was a lesson well learned. I became more conscious of my deck choices. So, investing in a durable deck, whether a Lithe or an Emillion, gets you one step closer to safe and adventurous skateboarding.
Remember, folks, skating is as much about the ride as it is about the board. So, choose wisely and shred on!
Advantages and disadvantages of choosing durable skateboard decks
Choosing durable skateboard decks, like attempting a kickflip, has upsides and downsides. Here’s a compilation of what to expect when you make that choice.
Advantages
- It’s tough and lasts long—a surefire win for hardcore skaters.
- Durable decks are typically designed with better technology, enhancing your skating experience.
- While the price tag may be hefty up front, these decks can often save you cash in the long run as they don’t need to be replaced as frequently.
- Afford the luxury of break-free skates—more time spent doing tricks and less being bummed about a broken board.
Disadvantages
- The cost factor can’t be ignored. These decks can be pricey. Not everyone wants to spend the big bucks on a deck, especially beginners.
- You might not be happy with the shape or feel. High-tech decks can sometimes feel different underfoot than traditional wooden decks.
- The worry of snapping a deck might actually hold you back from attempting bigger tricks.
- It may seem overkill if you’re a light skater or love cruising around.
If you are a visual learner, check out the video below from YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Look, I know that shopping for a durable skateboard deck can sometimes feel like a pop quiz. There’s just so much to consider! But don’t sweat; let’s tackle some common questions.
What is the strongest material for a skateboard deck?
The strongest skateboard deck is made from carbon fiber and maple wood. Decks like Lithe Slate 3 use this construction method to deliver unmatched strength and durability.
What’s an affordable but durable skateboard deck?
Brands such as Lib Tech and Emillion offer affordable yet durable decks. They’re a great fit if you’re on a budget but still value durability. You can read more about different board options in our Skateboard Buying Guide.
Can you tell how durable a deck is based on the brand?
While certain brands are known for creating more durable decks, this isn’t a set rule. It’s essential to read reviews and get advice from experienced skaters or trusted skate shops before deciding.
How do I maintain the durability of my board?
Regular cleaning and avoiding water can extend the lifespan of your skateboard deck. For a more detailed care regimen, check out our guide on Skateboard Maintenance.
Can any skateboard deck survive if a truck runs over it?
This might seem far-fetched, but you’ll be surprised! The Lithe Slate 3 deck famously survived a brute force test with a truck attempting to snap it in half.
Final thoughts
While the investment in a durable deck might seem hefty initially, it’s worth it if you’re a hefty skater or gnarly with the landings. The resilience of these boards means fewer trips to the skate shop and more hours perfecting your tricks and cruising around town. So, are you ready to invest in a solid deck and take your skateboarding to the next level? Let me know in the comments section below. I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on skateboarding. Thanks for reading and keeping skateboarding!
Key takeaways
This article delves deep into the world of durable skateboard decks. Here are some key takeaways:
- Durable skateboard decks are constructed using strong materials like carbon fiber, maple wood, and hybrid polymers.
- Although pricier, durable decks could save you money in the long run by reducing replacement frequency.
- Brands like Lithe, Powell-Peralta, and Santa Cruz offer top-tier, durable decks with impressive features.
- Budget-friendly but durable options include brands like Lib Tech and Emillion.
- Opting for a durable deck can improve your skateboarding experience while protecting you from unexpected board snap accidents.
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