So, you’re standing within the skate store, eyeing that slick professional deck with the flashy graphics. However then, you discover a plain, unadorned clean skateboard sitting subsequent to it, and it’s cheaper. The query hits you: “Are clean skateboards any good?” 🤔
As somebody who’s been shredding for over twenty years, I’ve bought some insights that’ll shock you.On this submit, we’ll break down the high quality of clean skateboards, examine them to branded decks, and think about whether or not they’re a wise alternative to your setup.
We’ll dig into the manufacturing course of, efficiency components, and even some trade secrets and techniques that massive manufacturers won’t need you to know.
A video titled ‘Greatest Clean Skateboard Decks!‘ from the North West Decks YouTube channel.
Key takeaways
- Clean skateboards are usually produced in the identical factories as branded decks, making certain prime quality with out the added price of branding.
- Selecting clean decks can prevent cash, permitting you to spend money on different important parts like vehicles and wheels.
- Clean decks present canvas for personalizing your skateboard with your personal designs or stickers.
High quality over graphics
You would possibly assume {that a} clean skateboard is inferior simply because it’s lacking these eye-catching graphics. However many clean decks are produced in the identical factories as the large manufacturers. So, what’s the true distinction?
Imagine it or not, high-quality clean skateboards usually come off the identical manufacturing traces as your favourite professional decks. Skating legend Ben Degros examined blanks from varied woodshops worldwide and located that some matched, and even exceeded, the standard of pricey branded decks [1].
These blanks undergo the identical rigorous manufacturing processes, making certain they’re simply as sturdy and performance-ready.
However wait, why are they cheaper? Easy—you’re not paying for the model’s advertising, professional endorsements, or flashy paintings. As a result of when it comes right down to it, the wooden and craftsmanship are what rely.
Within the ’80s and ’90s, skateboard manufacturing noticed important developments [2]. Firms like Acme Skateboards, based by Jim Grey, revolutionized the trade by specializing in high quality manufacturing over flashy advertising [5].
Acme produced hundreds of boards with constant high quality, exhibiting that glorious decks don’t want celeb endorsements to be nice.
Do you know?
Do you know? Acme as soon as cranked out about 96 boards per hour with their 24 presses [5]. Speak about effectivity!
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Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings
Not gonna lie—these are the greatest bearings I’ve purchased as a result of they’re quick and low cost! I’ve by no means had any points with them, they usually’re tremendous cheap and clean as hell.
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Key components that matter
When evaluating a skateboard deck, think about these necessities:
- Total high quality: Search for decks made out of 7-ply Canadian maple—the gold customary for skateboards.
- Manufacturing consistency: Respected producers press every deck individually, making certain constant concave and form. Manufacturers like Mini Brand and CSC are identified for his or her meticulous manufacturing strategies [4].
- Form and dimension: The deck’s dimensions have an effect on your trip. Wider decks (like my most popular 8.5″) provide stability however are heavier, whereas narrower ones are lighter and flip simpler [3].
So, is a clean deck inferior? Completely not. In truth, stripping away the branding usually reveals the true high quality of the skateboard.
However doesn’t the model assure high quality? Not essentially. What issues is the manufacturing, not the advertising.
Efficiency on the streets (and ramps)
Alright, let’s get right down to brass tacks—or on this case, maple wooden. How do clean skateboards carry out in comparison with their branded counterparts?
Efficiency is subjective, however right here’s what I’ve skilled:
- Pop and flex: A great clean deck can have simply as a lot pop as any professional mannequin. Pop comes from the standard of the wooden and the urgent course of, not the graphics.
- Sturdiness: With out the added layers of paint and graphics, some skaters consider clean decks are literally barely lighter, although this distinction is clearly minimal.
- Personalization: Clean decks provide a canvas for your creativity. Slap in your favourite stickers, paint your personal design, or preserve it minimalist. It’s your name.
Skate communities and boards are buzzing with skaters who’ve made the swap to blanks and by no means seemed again [4]. The consensus? In case you select a clean deck from a good producer, you’re not sacrificing high quality. Considering of attempting a clean deck? Simply go for it. You may be pleasantly stunned.
The price issue: saving cash
Let’s face it, skateboarding can burn a gap in your pocket, particularly should you’re snapping decks left and proper.
Clean skateboards are typically cheaper since you’re not paying for the model identify or the professional skater’s royalty charge. This cost-effectiveness is a game-changer, particularly if:
- You’re a newbie: Beginning out and never prepared to speculate massive bucks.
- You’re exhausting on decks: In case you’re into massive methods that danger breaking boards.
- You need selection: Making an attempt totally different sizes and styles with out breaking the financial institution.
The hidden worth
By choosing blanks, you may reallocate a few of your price range to different parts that matter, like these Unbiased vehicles or Bones wheels that I swear by.
However received’t a less expensive deck put on out quicker? Not should you select properly. Keep in mind, high quality manufacturing issues greater than the brand.
Whereas clean skateboards could be a nice alternative, not all blanks are created equal. Right here’s learn how to dodge the duds.
Tempted by that deal of ten decks for the value of 1? Maintain up. Mass-produced blanks offered in bulk usually lack the standard management of individually pressed decks [4]. These boards may need inconsistent concave, weak glue bonds, or inferior wooden.
Regularly requested questions (FAQ)
Not should you select a top quality clean. The sturdiness relies on the supplies and manufacturing course of, not the graphics or model identify.
After all! Clean decks with correct building are appropriate for all sorts of skating, from avenue to ramps.
Remaining ideas
Skateboarding is in regards to the trip, not the brand below your toes. If a clean deck feels good and performs effectively, who cares in regards to the lacking graphics? As an old-school skater adapting to new terrains, I’ve discovered that what’s important is how the board responds to you—not the model stamped on it.
So subsequent time you’re establishing a brand new deck, give blanks a shot. You would possibly simply discover your new favourite board. Ever tried a clean deck? Share your experiences—I’d love to listen to the way it labored out for you.