Bamboo vs. Maple: Which Deck Material Wins for Longboards & Snowboards?

The market size of sustainable sports was valued at USD 26.24 billion in 2024 and is expected to see a compound annual growth rate of 7.9% by 2032. (1) 

While the demand for sustainable equipment like bamboo longboards and snowboards is rising, many people are still debating the efficiency and durability of bamboo vs. maple. After all, you deserve a deck built to help you ride your best on all terrains. 

In this blog, we will help you understand the pros and cons of using bamboo plywood for sports equipment like snowboards and longboards. We will discuss their features, costs, sustainability, and performance to help you choose a material that suits your riding style. 

Let's begin! 

Bamboo vs. Maple - Performance comparison 

This table should give you a quick overview of the key features of the two most popular deck materials.

Pro tip: If you are interested in buying bamboo furniture, read our detailed blog on the cost, durability & sustainability breakdown of bamboo versus hardwood.

Now, let’s dive into the details of the bamboo longboard vs. maple comparison. 

Weight 

Bamboo longboards and snowboards are much lighter than maple ones. However, the lightweight had much more to do than being easy to carry.

Lighter decks have less ‘swing weight.’ You can easily maneuver them, especially when doing freestyle movements. They need less energy and effort to pick up the momentum. However, being lightweight, bamboo decks are less stable. 

Maple decks are stabler, even when riding at high speeds and in windy conditions. But you need to put more effort into pushing them. 

Durability 

Because maple is denser, it is more durable than bamboo. It can withstand heavy impacts, so it is recommended for aggressive riders and athletes. 

Bamboo has medium durability. It can handle a fair amount of impact from everyday casual riding. But, it can crack under heavy impacts from downhill racing and high-impact landings.  

Flexibility 

Flexibility is a crucial factor when comparing bamboo vs maple snowboards. Flexible bamboo decks absorb the shock from uneven surfaces, giving you a smoother ride. Moreover, the flexibility helps the board rebound quickly, making it easier for you to perform bending and twisting tricks. 

However, being flexible, bamboo boards feel less stable when riding high speed. Maple boards are stiffer and can be very painful and tiring when riding uneven surfaces. Plus, they do not offer the same rebound energy as bamboo. You might have to put in extra effort when performing tricks. 

Pop 

Due to its natural elasticity, bamboo rebounds easily, making it easier to perform flying and landing tricks. The pop could be ‘snappy,’ but it's also smooth and forgiving, perfect for beginners and casual riders. 

Maple has a somewhat crispy, predictable pop. When compressed, it stores more energy than bamboo, giving you more durable pop. You will know how the board will react every time. 

Shock absorption and riding experience 

As discussed above, bamboo has a better shock absorption capacity than maple and other longboard and snowboard materials. It provides a smoother ride even on uneven terrain and reduces fatigue during long rides. 

Maple decks are not as effective as bamboo. 

Lifespan 

Bamboo longboards and snowboards typically have shorter lifespans than maple ones, depending on how they are used and maintained. 

Maple longboards can last for about 3-8 years and even more. They can withstand heavy, aggressive use. Bamboo decks can last for about 2-7 years with proper maintenance.   

Sustainability 

Here’s a brief overview of bamboo vs. maple sustainability.

Here are some more benefits of using bamboo as a sustainable substitute for wood. 

At HTR Bamboo Products Co., we follow sustainable forestry practices outlined by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council). We cut only 25% of our bamboo forests at a time to ensure the carbon sink remains intact. From using green energy to recycling waste, we follow stringent measures to reduce the environmental impact of our products. 

As a socially responsible company, we hire local communities to manage our forests and participate in producing our bamboo plywood, bamboo veneers, bamboo crafts, and more. 

Our bamboo plywood for making longboards and snowboards 

We manufacture plywood in several thicknesses, ranging from 0.5mm to 11.5mm, and layers. Our 4- and 5-layer plywood is ideal for skateboards and longboards. It is made from the finest-quality bamboo sourced from our sustainably managed forests. 

If you are looking for a reliable plywood supplier, contact our sales team today for a free consultation and samples. 

Now, let's look at the final factor of bamboo longboard vs maple comparison: the cost. 

Bamboo plywood for sports versus maple - Cost Analysis 

Production cost

Bamboo grows faster and is easier to harvest than hardwood trees like maple. You don’t need specialized equipment and highly trained people to cut bamboo. 

The bamboo plywood production process is also straightforward. Bamboo strips are glued together using a formaldehyde-free adhesive and pressed under high pressure and heat to create strong, durable plywood. 

Bamboo plywood is, therefore, cheaper than maple plywood for longboards and snowboards. Depending on the thickness and quality, bamboo plywood typically costs $4 to $8 per square foot, whereas maple plywood costs $5 to $15y. 

Maintenance cost 

Bamboo decks require regular inspection and protective coatings to prevent warping and cracking. Maple ones need basic cleaning and occasional waxing. However, the maintenance cost hardly makes any difference, considering that bamboo decks are more affordable overall. 

Bamboo vs Maple snowboards - What to choose 

The choice between bamboo and maple decks depends on your riding style. 

We recommend bamboo if you - 

• Prefer carving and cruising, dancing and flowing styles
• Ride long distances
• Prefer a responsive pop
• Are committed to sustainability and eco-friendliness 

Maple is ideal if you are - 

• Perform high-impact, street style tricks
• Prefer consistent, predictable pop 
• Travel at high speed or prefer downhill and freeride

Wrap up 

Both bamboo and maple have pros and cons. Ideally, you should choose something that suits your riding style and lasts as expected. However, as an eco-conscious company, we urge you to consider sustainability when deciding between bamboo and maple. 

Let’s join hands to make our planet greener and livable again. 

Contact us today for a free Quotation!

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