How to recognise a good quality deck? PART 2
Tue Oct 10 2006
Let’s talk more about WOOD.
Why are Chinese made boards different (I actually mean “not as good”!) from Woodchuck boards (Canadian made)?
One thing is THE WOOD.
You’ve been hearing lately all the boards are made with 100% ‘Hardrock’ Canadian Maple. Even the Chinese made boards…
Well, that’s NOT TRUE!!!
1st – ‘Hardrock’ Canadian Maple grows… IN CANADA.
Now think for a second! If the Chinese manufacturers use ‘Hardrock’ Canadian Maple, how do they get the wood?
BY BOAT! Imagine plys of wood all piled up on a ship for 6-8 weeks, going through all kind of weather… Humidity/Dryness, Hot/Cold, etc.
Now, we all know what happens when wood gets all humid… It warps (waves!)
And what happens when wood dries up? It cracks! It becomes “dead wood”.
Would that make sense? A Chinese business man paying top dollars for this great wood from Canada which, by the time it gets to China, has lost all its goodness! And then, this guy turns around and sells his boards for half the price as a Canadian made board to his distributors?
You’re starting to get it… They are not using just, completely, entirely ‘Hardrock’ Canadian Maple.
2nd – There are other types of Maple which are SOFT WOOD.
Let’s say the Chinese manufacturers use other types of Maple (or even other woods like Birch – Yuk!), grown in their own country… Well, great for them but not so great for you. The other types of wood are much softer. This means the wood can’t handle the same mean treatment you’re giving your board!
Forget having a board with amazing, long lasting pop and stiffness!
Forget the feel of this strong mean piece of wood under your feet!
Next thing you’ll know… You’ll be riding a pancake!
DON’T BE FOOLED BY THESE PEOPLE. MAKE SURE YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!
Unfortunately, you can’t rely only on the “100% Hardrock Canadian Maple” anymore. It’s like McDonalds and their 100% beef. Sure enough, the beef they use is 100% beef! But they also put other stuff in the patties. Plus what part of the beef are they using... ears?
IF THERE’S NOTHING ON THE BOARD SAYING IT IS MADE IN CANADA (OR THE USA) AND WITH 100% HARDROCK CANADIAN MAPLE, IT MEANS IT AIN’T THE REAL DEAL!
If you’re not quite sure what your board is made of, email us (skate@headfirst.net.au)! We’ll tell you exactly what you’re getting and what to expect. Hey! You might like to ride pancakes! That’s alright as long as you know that’s what you got for your money!
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