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Best Eco-Friendly Skating Brands for a Green World
Skateboarding should not come at the cost of the environment. Most standard decks contribute to deforestation and use toxic glues that poison local waterways. To build a sustainable setup, you must choose FSC certified maple decks, bamboo alternatives, and recycled urethane wheels from brands like Element, Arbor, and Bamboo Skateboards. These choices ensure your gear is durable while significantly reducing your environmental impact.
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Why Your Skate Gear Choice Matters
Traditional skateboards are often made from old growth maple. This process depletes forests faster than they can regrow. Standard manufacturing also relies on petroleum based resins.
Switching to eco friendly gear reduces waste. It supports companies that invest in reforestation. High quality sustainable materials often last longer than cheap, mass-produced alternatives.
Best Sustainable Skateboard Decks
Choosing a deck is the most important part of your setup. These brands prioritize the planet without sacrificing pop.
1. Element Skateboards (FSC-Certified)
Element is a leader in the industry. Their decks often use Thriftwood construction. This method utilizes sustainable harvesting and high-quality veneers.
The Element Section Complete Skateboard tops the list and features 7-ply sustainable maple and water based adhesives.
2. Bamboo Skateboards (The Renewable Choice)
Bamboo is one of the most sustainable materials on Earth. It grows much faster than maple. These decks are lighter and have more flex, which is great for shock absorption.
Bamboo Skateboards Graphic Skateboard Deck are made from sustainable bamboo and recycled materials, helping us skate green.
3. Arbor Collective (Cruisers and Longboards)
Arbor is famous for its commitment to the environment. They use a variety of sustainable wood and bamboo power plys. They also donate to groups that protect and restore forests.
The Arbor Collective Sizzler Bamboo Cruiser features sustainable wood tops and recycled plastic components.
Essential Sustainable Hardware and Wheels
Your deck is only half the story. You can also find eco-friendly options for your wheels and griptape.
Satori Eco Friendly Wheels
Satori has pioneered the use of recycled materials in wheels for years. They take old wheels and regrind them to create new high performance urethane.
We especially love their Satori Recycled Wheels.
Non-Toxic Griptape
Standard griptape uses harsh chemicals. Look for brands that focus on cleaner production methods. Bamboo based griptapes are also hitting the market to reduce plastic usage.
The Cloud 9 Griptape is made from Refined Silicon Carbide, a sustainable material.
Sustainable Skate Footwear
Skate shoes are notorious for wearing out quickly. Choosing a durable, eco-friendly shoe reduces how many pairs you send to the landfill each year.
Vans Eco Theory Line
Vans updated their classic silhouettes with environmentally friendly materials. They use organic cotton, hemp, and natural rubber.
The Vans Authentic Eco Theory features bio based rubber and responsibly sourced natural fibers.
Wheels
Look for durable, long lasting wheels such as the Bones reds bearings to reduce waste.
How to Build Your Eco-Friendly Setup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to ensure your next board is as green as possible.
- Select a Sustainable Base: Choose a deck from Bamboo Skateboards or an FSC-certified Element deck.
- Pick Recycled Wheels: Look for Satori or other brands labeled “recycled urethane.”
- Use Quality Hardware: Don’t buy cheap, disposable bolts. Invest in high-shred hardware that won’t rust or snap.
- Maintain Your Gear: Clean your bearings and rotate your wheels. The longer your gear lasts, the less waste you create.
Conclusion
Eco-skating is about making better choices for the spots we love. By purchasing gear from brands like Arbor, Element, and Bamboo Skateboards, you support a cleaner industry. You get high-quality equipment that performs at a professional level while protecting the environment.
