Bamboo VS Maple Longboard: Is Maple Better Than Bamboo?

Deciding between a bamboo or maple longboard can be a challenging task. I want to emphasize that it’s important to read this article carefully before deciding which type of longboard to choose.

Your selection should ultimately depend on your specific desires and needs. Ultimately, your requirements will be the determining factor in making the decision. They also have a unique and stylish look that is perfect for riders who want to express their style. 

On the other hand, Maple longboards are heavier, more durable, and suitable for high-performance riding. They are ideal for experienced riders looking for a challenging and thrilling ride.

This article will compare bamboo and maple longboards and explore their differences and similarities. 

Bamboo VS Maple Longboard (Comparison Chart)

AspectBamboo LongboardMaple Longboard
DurabilityModerate durability can withstand regular use, and impactsHighly durable, resistant to cracks and heavy impacts
FlexibilityOffers a smooth and flexible rideProvides a stiffer and more rigid ride
WeightRelatively lightweightSlightly heavier compared to bamboo longboards
SustainabilityLess sustainable compared to bamboo due to a longer growth periodLess sustainable compared to bamboo due to longer growth period
AestheticsNatural grain patterns give a unique and stylish lookOffers a classic and traditional longboard appearance
PriceGenerally more affordable compared to mapleSlightly higher price due to the quality and durability
PopularityGaining popularity among riders for their eco-friendly natureWidely popular and commonly used material for longboards
Ride ExperienceProvides a smoother and more comfortable rideOffers a more stable and predictable ride experience
Suitable TerrainWell-suited for cruising and carving on various terrainsIdeal for downhill racing and high-speed riding
MaintenanceRequires regular maintenance to prevent water damage and warpingRequires minimal maintenance to keep it in good condition
PerformanceOffers good shock absorption and energy transferProvides excellent stability and control at high speeds

Comparison Between Bamboo and Maple Longboard

Bamboo and Maple Longboard

Are you prepared for the battle of bamboo versus maple longboards? As mentioned previously, maple and bamboo wood have unique advantages and disadvantages.

Strength and Durability

Both bamboo and maple longboards are strong and durable. However, maple is denser and heavier than bamboo, which makes it slightly more durable. With proper care and maintenance, Maple longboards can withstand heavy use and last several years.

Bamboo longboards are also durable but not as dense as maple longboards. Their lightweight and flexible nature makes them perfect for cruising and commuting Bamboo longboards can also withstand wear and tear but may not last as long as maple longboards.

Riding Experience

The riding experience of these longboards is different. Bamboo longboards are flexible, which makes them ideal for cruising and commuting. They provide a smooth and comfortable ride and are great for beginners just starting to learn how to ride a longboard.

Conversely, Maple longboards offer a more stable ride due to their rigidity. They are great for downhill riding and performing tricks and stunts. Maple longboards are also more suitable for experienced riders looking for a challenging and thrilling ride.

Weight

Bamboo longboards are lighter than maple longboards, making them more convenient for traveling and commuting as they are easier to carry. Bamboo longboards are also easier to maneuver, making them ideal for riders looking for a more agile and responsive ride.

Maple longboards are heavier than bamboo longboards. This makes them more stable and provides a smoother ride at high speeds. However, longboard weight can also make them more difficult to carry around, which may disadvantage riders looking for a more portable longboard.

Aesthetics

Conversely, Maple longboards are recognized for their classic and conventional appearance. Maple longboards are available in various designs and graphics, making them more customizable than bamboo longboards.

Maple longboards can be designed with different colors and graphics, allowing riders to express their style.

Bamboo and Maple Longboard

Both bamboo and maple longboards are available in various designs and styles. Bamboo longboards’ natural and distinct appearance makes them visually appealing and stylish. Bamboo longboards can also be designed with different patterns and colors to give them a personalized look.

Price

The cost of bamboo and maple longboards fluctuates based on brand, design, and quality factors. Generally, these boards are more affordable than maple longboards. Bamboo longboards are made from a sustainable and renewable material, making them more cost-effective.

On the other hand, Maple longboards are made from dense and high-quality hardwood, making them more expensive than bamboo boards. Maple longboards are also more suitable for experienced riders looking for high-performance longboards, which may increase their price.

Maintenance

Bamboo and maple longboards require adequate care and maintenance to guarantee durability. Bamboo longboards should be kept dry and away from moisture to prevent warping and cracking.

Regular cleaning of your longboard wheels and board with a damp cloth is necessary to eliminate dirt and debris from them. Maple longboards should also be kept dry and away from moisture to prevent warping and cracking.

They should also be cleaned regularly to remove dirt and debris. In addition, maple longboards may require regular oiling or waxing to maintain their smooth and polished surface.

Flexibility

Bamboo VS Maple Longboard

One of the biggest differences between bamboo and maple longboards is their flexibility. Bamboo longboards are known for their flexibility, which makes them more forgiving and comfortable to ride on rough surfaces.

The natural elasticity of bamboo also allows for smoother turns and a more responsive ride.

On the other hand, Maple longboards are less flexible and more rigid than bamboo longboards. This makes them more stable, suitable for high-speed riding, and less forgiving on rough surfaces.

Maple longboards also require more skill and experience to maneuver, as they do not bend as easily as bamboo longboards.

Weight Capacity

Their weight capacity is another factor to consider when choosing between bamboo and maple longboards.

Bamboo longboards are generally lighter and have a lower weight capacity than maple longboards. This makes them ideal for smaller and lighter riders but may not be suitable for heavier riders or riders who carry heavy backpacks or equipment.

On the other hand, Maple longboards are heavier and have a higher weight capacity than bamboo longboards. This makes them more suitable for larger and heavier riders or riders who carry heavy loads. And, the weight of a maple longboard might render it less portable and more challenging to transport.

Durability

Both longboards are durable and long-lasting, but they have different strengths and weaknesses regarding durability. Bamboo longboards are more resistant to impact and vibration, which makes them less prone to cracking or breaking. However, if not properly cared for, bamboo longboards may be more susceptible to water damage and warping.

On the other hand, Maple longboards are denser and more durable than bamboo longboards. They are more resistant to warping or water damage and can endure substantial use and impact. However, if subjected to extreme stress or impact, maple longboards may be more prone to cracking or splitting.

FAQs

Which type of longboard is better for carving?

Both bamboo and maple longboards can be used for carving, but bamboo longboards tend to be more flexible and have more bounce, making them a popular choice for carving enthusiasts.

What about cruising and commuting?

For cruising and commuting, either bamboo or maple longboards can work well. However, bamboo longboards are often preferred for their lightweight and flexible construction, making them easier to carry and maneuver.

Are bamboo longboards more durable than maple longboards?

Bamboo longboards can be more durable than maple longboards due to their flexibility, which can help absorb shocks and prevent cracking. However, maple longboards are known for their strength and can withstand more wear and tear.

Conclusion

Bamboo and maple longboards have advantages and disadvantages. Bamboo longboards are lightweight, flexible, and eco-friendly, making them great for cruising and commuting. Riders looking for a comfortable and eco-friendly ride may prefer bamboo longboards, while riders looking for a high-performance ride may prefer maple longboards.

Share and care!
Photo of author

Walter Beard

Meet Walter Beard, a passionate Longboarded who has been immersed in the exhilarating world of longboarding for eight years. With his love for the sport, Walter understands the joy and excitement that comes from executing thrilling tricks and being part of a vibrant longboarding community.

Leave a Comment