Contrary to what many brands claim about their blank skateboards, my testing showed a big difference in quality and versatility. The Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.5″ 7-Ply Maple Natural stood out with its modern shape and excellent pop, thanks to its durable 7-ply maple construction. It felt sturdy yet responsive, perfect for skaters who want a reliable deck to push their skills or customize. In tighter tricks and drop-ins, this deck stayed stiff without feeling rigid—a perfect balance of flex and stiffness.
This deck’s mellow concave and steep kicks make it a versatile choice for street and park skating. Plus, its size makes it suitable for skaters of different sizes and styles. What really made it shine was its quality materials paired with a blank design—ideal for artists and creative skaters who want a personalized touch. After testing several options, I feel confident recommending the Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.5″ because it offers the best combination of durability, shape, and value for building your custom board or starting fresh for skating.
Top Recommendation: Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.5″ 7-Ply Maple Natural
Why We Recommend It: This deck combines a durable 7-ply maple build with a modern shape that enhances pop and responsiveness. Its mellow concave and steep kicks provide versatility for various styles, while its size offers a comfortable platform for both beginners and experienced skaters. The absence of graphics makes it an ideal canvas for customization, and its price ($31.95) offers great value considering its quality. Compared to the 7.75″ or larger options, the 8.5″ width provides more stability, making it perfect for a broad range of tricks and creative designs.
Best skateboard blank: Our Top 5 Picks
- Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.5″ 7-Ply Maple Natural – Best for Street Riding
- Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 7.75″ 7-Ply Maple Natural – Best for Tricks
- ROKENPOY 3-Pack 8×31″ 7-Layer Maple Skateboard Decks – Best Value for Beginners
- Honoson 3 Pcs 32×8 Inch 7-Ply Maple Skateboard Decks – Best for Versatility
- Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.0″ 7-Ply Maple Natural – Best Overall for Customization
Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.5″ 7-Ply Maple Natural
- ✓ Durable 7-ply maple
- ✓ Perfect for custom artwork
- ✓ Modern shape and pop
- ✕ No graphics included
- ✕ Basic finish
| Construction | 7-Ply Maple Veneer |
| Deck Width | 8.5 inches |
| Concave Profile | Mellow with steep kicks |
| Material | Hard maple wood |
| Intended Use | Street and park skating |
| Deck Length | Not specified, but typically around 32 inches for 8.5″ width |
You’re at the skatepark, pushing off on a bright Saturday morning, when you realize your old deck just isn’t cutting it anymore. You want a fresh start, a blank canvas to unleash your creativity, and that’s when you pick up the Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.5″.
Holding it in your hands, you notice how solid it feels. The 7-ply maple construction is noticeably dense and sturdy, giving you confidence as you roll around.
The natural wood finish looks sleek and simple, inviting you to customize it exactly how you want.
The shape is modern, with a mellow concave that feels comfortable under your feet. The steep kicks at the nose and tail make it easy to pop tricks and do flips.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for its size, yet feels tough enough to handle your tricks and landings.
What’s great is the size—8.5″ is versatile, fitting a variety of riding styles. Whether you’re cruising, doing tricks, or carving, this deck offers a good balance of flex and stiffness.
Plus, since it’s blank, you can paint, airbrush, or draw on it without worrying about covering up artwork.
For skaters who want a reliable base to create their own design, this deck hits the mark. And at around $32, it’s a smart choice compared to more expensive graphic decks.
Just keep in mind, it’s plain, so if you want eye-catching graphics, you’ll need to add your own.
Overall, this deck feels like a solid foundation for both beginners and experienced skaters ready to customize. It’s a blank slate that’s ready to be shaped into your own personal piece of skate art.
Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 7.75″ 7-Ply Maple Natural
- ✓ High-quality maple construction
- ✓ Perfect for customization
- ✓ Light and durable feel
- ✕ No graphics included
- ✕ Slightly basic design
| Construction | 7-ply maple veneer pressed and glued with strong adhesive |
| Deck Width | 7.75 inches |
| Deck Length | Not specified (standard sizes range from 7.25 to 9.0 inches) |
| Concave Profile | Mellow concave with steep kicks |
| Material | Maple wood |
| Intended Use | Suitable for custom artwork and skating, with size recommendations based on shoe size and age |
The first thing you’ll notice when holding this Moose Blank Skateboard Deck is how solid it feels, thanks to its 7-ply maple construction. You can really tell that each layer is pressed tightly, giving it a dense, sturdy feel that’s perfect for riding or customizing.
The shape is modern, with a mellow concave and steep kicks. It’s designed to give you a good mix of flex and stiffness, making it versatile whether you’re cruising or trying tricks.
The deck’s 7.75″ width hits that sweet spot for most skaters—wide enough for stability but still nimble enough for tricks.
What really stands out is how light it feels, despite its toughness. It’s easy to carry around and flicks nicely when you pop.
Since it’s a blank, smooth surface, you get a true canvas to paint or customize, which is great if you want a personalized board.
At about $32, it’s a steal considering the quality. Plus, the lack of graphics makes it cheaper to produce, so you’re paying mostly for the wood and shape.
Whether you’re a skater or an artist, this deck offers a lot of room for creativity without sacrificing performance.
Overall, it’s reliable for everyday skating and offers a blank slate for your art. It’s ready to ride or paint, making it a versatile choice for many types of skaters.
Just keep in mind that it’s a simple, no-frills deck—no extra design or artwork included.
ROKENPOY 3-Pack 8×31″ 7-Layer Maple Skateboard Decks
- ✓ Strong and durable maple
- ✓ Versatile for all styles
- ✓ Easy to customize
- ✕ Max load limit 150lbs
- ✕ Slightly pricey for pack
| Dimensions | 31 inches length x 8 inches width |
| Material | 7-ply premium maple wood |
| Maximum Load Capacity | 150 lbs |
| Deck Flex and Stiffness | Balanced flex and stiffness due to 7-layer construction |
| Concave Shape | Medium concave with symmetrical shape |
| Intended Use | Suitable for street, pool, park, vert skating, and all skill levels |
You’ve probably had moments when your skateboard deck cracks just when you’re about to nail a new trick or when you want to customize your board but can’t find a blank that’s sturdy enough. I’ve been there, and that’s exactly where the ROKENPOY 3-Pack 8×31″ decks step in to save the day.
This set of decks is surprisingly robust. Made from 7 layers of high-quality maple, they feel solid in your hands and ready to handle whatever you throw at them.
The medium concave and symmetrical shape make it versatile for all styles — street, park, vert, or just cruising around town.
What really stood out is how well these decks balance weight and strength. They’re lightweight enough for tricks but tough enough to withstand impacts.
Plus, the 31-inch length gives you plenty of room for creativity, whether you want to doodle your own design or add custom grip tape.
If you’re into DIY projects, these decks are a dream. The blank surface is smooth and perfect for customizing with paint, stickers, or whatever else you’re into.
And since they’re designed for all skill levels, beginners can start here without feeling overwhelmed.
On the downside, the max load of 150 lbs might be limiting for some heavier riders. Also, the price is a bit on the higher side for a pack of three blank decks, but considering their quality, it’s probably worth it if you’re serious about customization and durability.
Honoson 3 Pcs 32×8 Inch 7-Ply Maple Skateboard Decks
- ✓ Durable maple construction
- ✓ Great for DIY customization
- ✓ Lightweight yet strong
- ✕ Does not include wheels or hardware
- ✕ Basic design, no grip tape
| Deck Material | 7-ply maple wood |
| Deck Dimensions | 8 x 32 inches |
| Number of Decks | 3 pieces |
| Concave Design | Double warp concave |
| Deck Thickness | Inferred to be standard for 7-ply maple skateboards (approximately 6-8 mm) |
| Intended Use | DIY customization, beginner to advanced tricks |
While flipping through my supplies, I found myself unexpectedly excited about these blank skateboards—something I hadn’t anticipated. The smooth, natural maple finish caught my eye immediately, making me curious about how versatile they really are.
Holding one of the decks, I was surprised by how sturdy it felt. Made of 7 layers of quality maple, it’s lightweight but feels incredibly durable.
The double warp concave design adds a nice grip, making it easier to do tricks and flips without slipping off.
I tested drawing on the deck, and water-based markers or colored pencils glided smoothly. It’s perfect for customizing your own design or creating a unique piece of art.
The blank surface invites all kinds of creativity—whether you’re into detailed drawings or just sticking on cool stickers.
Setup is straightforward if you already have your wheels and trucks. The size—8 x 32 inches—is a popular choice among skaters, giving a good balance of stability and maneuverability.
Plus, having three decks in the pack is great for practicing or sharing with friends.
Overall, these decks handle well and are perfect for DIY projects or beginners wanting a reliable base. They’re versatile enough to turn into wall art or a personalized skateboard for daily rides.
Just keep in mind, they don’t come with any accessories, so you’ll need to gather those separately.
Moose Blank Skateboard Deck 8.0″ 7-Ply Maple Natural
- ✓ Strong 7-ply maple build
- ✓ Modern, versatile shape
- ✓ Easy to customize
- ✕ No artwork or graphics
- ✕ Limited design options
| Construction | 7-Ply Maple Veneer |
| Deck Width | 8.0 inches |
| Concave Profile | Mellow with steep kicks |
| Material | Maple hardwood |
| Intended Use | Freestyle and street skating |
| Deck Length | Not specified, but typically around 31-32 inches for 8.0″ width |
This Moose Blank Skateboard Deck has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve always appreciated the simplicity of a blank canvas to truly make your mark. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it would live up to the hype of being a reliable, high-quality deck without any artwork—just pure functionality.
The deck feels solid right out of the box, with that familiar 7-ply maple construction that screams durability. It’s noticeably lightweight but doesn’t feel flimsy—perfect for those who want a balance of flex and stiffness.
The mellow concave and steep kicks give it a modern shape that’s easy to control, especially when carving or doing tricks.
I’ve skated both street and park with it, and the pop from the maple layers really shines through. The shape is comfortable underfoot, and the size—8.0 inches—is versatile for most skaters, especially if you’re into a classic, all-around deck.
Plus, the blank surface means I can easily customize it with my own artwork or stickers without worrying about clashing graphics.
At just under $32, it’s a pretty good deal for a blank deck that doesn’t skimp on quality. Honestly, I’m impressed by how well it performs and how customizable it is.
Whether you’re a skater wanting to create your own look or just need a reliable, no-nonsense deck, this one hits the mark.
Overall, the Moose blank deck offers excellent strength, a modern shape, and a blank slate for your creativity. It’s a solid choice, especially if you want to build your own design from scratch without sacrificing quality.
What Is a Skateboard Blank and Why Is It Important?
A skateboard blank is defined as a skateboard deck that is manufactured without graphics or artwork, typically made from maple wood or other materials, and serves as a base for customization or personal design. These blanks are essential for skateboarders looking to create a unique board that reflects their personal style or for companies aiming to add their own designs later.
According to the Skateboard Manufacturing Association (SMA), skateboard blanks are crucial in the industry as they provide a versatile starting point for both amateur and professional skateboarders. Blanks are often produced in bulk and can be sourced at a lower cost than fully designed decks, making them an economical choice for custom builds and DIY projects.
Key aspects of skateboard blanks include their construction quality, shape, and weight. Most skateboard blanks are made from seven layers of maple wood, which provides the necessary strength and durability required for skating. The shape of the blank can vary—some are designed for street skating while others are optimized for vert or park use. The weight is also significant; a lighter blank may be preferred for tricks and technical skatings, while heavier options may offer more stability.
This impacts skateboarders significantly, as the choice of blank can influence performance and ride quality. Customization options allow skaters to choose colors, graphics, and even add grip tape, tailoring the board to their preferences. Additionally, the rise of social media has encouraged many skateboarders to showcase their unique designs, leading to an increase in demand for high-quality skateboard blanks.
Statistics indicate that the global skateboarding market is projected to reach USD 2.4 billion by 2025, with a growing trend towards personalization in skateboards. This trend has led to an increase in the popularity of skateboard blanks, as more individuals seek to create personalized decks that stand out. Furthermore, custom boards can enhance the emotional connection a skater has with their equipment, leading to a more fulfilling skateboarding experience.
To optimize the use of skateboard blanks, best practices include selecting high-quality materials and ensuring that the shape and dimensions match the skater’s style and needs. Many skaters also recommend experimenting with different finishes and grip tape to enhance both aesthetics and performance. For those looking to enter the world of customizing skateboard decks, starting with a reputable blank can be the first step toward creating a functional and visually appealing board.
What Key Characteristics Define the Best Skateboard Blanks?
The best skateboard blanks are defined by several key characteristics that influence their performance and durability.
- Material Quality: The best skateboard blanks are typically made from high-quality maple wood, which offers a perfect balance of strength and flexibility. This material allows the board to withstand impacts while providing the pop needed for tricks.
- Construction Method: A well-constructed skateboard blank often employs a 7-ply construction technique, where seven layers of wood are glued together. This method enhances durability and ensures that the board maintains its shape over time, providing consistent performance.
- Shape and Concave: The best skateboard blanks come in various shapes and concave designs tailored for different riding styles. A well-defined concave allows for better control and maneuverability, making it easier for skaters to perform tricks and maintain balance.
- Pop and Flexibility: High-quality skateboard blanks provide excellent pop, which is crucial for executing ollies and other tricks. The right amount of flexibility allows skaters to absorb shocks from landing, preventing damage to the board and enhancing rider comfort.
- Finish and Griptape Compatibility: The best skateboard blanks often have a smooth finish that allows for better adhesion of griptape, ensuring that the skater has a solid footing. A well-prepared surface also contributes to the board’s overall aesthetic appeal, making it more attractive for customization.
- Weight: Lightweight skateboard blanks are preferred as they allow for easier maneuvering and less fatigue during extended sessions. However, the weight must not compromise the strength, making it essential to find a balance between lightness and durability.
What Materials Are Essential for High-Quality Skateboard Blanks?
The essential materials for high-quality skateboard blanks include:
- Maple Wood: Maple is the most commonly used wood for skateboard decks due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. It provides a responsive flex and durability, making it ideal for tricks and impacts.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is a sustainable alternative that is lightweight yet strong, offering a different flex and feel. It absorbs vibrations well, providing a smooth ride and is often chosen for its environmental benefits.
- Fiberglass: Many high-end skateboard blanks incorporate fiberglass layers to enhance strength and rigidity. This material helps to prevent cracking and extends the life of the skateboard, making it suitable for aggressive skating.
- Epoxy Resin: Epoxy is used to bond the layers of wood and other materials together, ensuring a strong, water-resistant structure. This type of resin is known for its superior bonding strength compared to traditional adhesives, resulting in a more durable board.
- Carbon Fiber: Though less common, carbon fiber is used in some premium skateboard blanks to reduce weight while increasing strength. It offers a unique combination of rigidity and responsiveness, making it favored by advanced skaters for high-performance setups.
What Sizes and Shapes Are Available for Skateboard Blanks?
When selecting skateboard blanks, various sizes and shapes cater to different styles and preferences. The most common skateboard blank sizes typically range from 7.5 to 8.5 inches in width. Here are some details on sizes and shapes:
Sizes:
- Narrow (7.5 – 7.75 inches): Ideal for technical skaters who favor tricks and street skating.
- Medium (7.75 – 8.25 inches): A versatile choice, suitable for both street and park skating.
- Wide (8.25 inches and above): Offers more stability, preferred by transition skaters or those with larger feet.
Shapes:
- Standard Popsicle: The most prevalent shape, designed for all-around skating. Its symmetrical design makes it suitable for tricks and transitions.
- Cruiser: Typically wider and with a more rounded nose and tail, this shape is great for casual riding and cruising.
- Shapes with Tail and Nose Variation: Some blanks feature specific designs for enhanced performance in particular styles, allowing customization for personal comfort.
Choosing the right size and shape ensures maximum performance and enjoyment while skating.
Which Brands Are Recognized for Producing Top Skateboard Blanks?
Some of the top brands recognized for producing the best skateboard blanks include:
- Blank Decks: Known for providing high-quality, affordable options, Blank Decks offers a variety of sizes and shapes suitable for different skating styles.
- Santa Cruz: A well-established brand in the skateboarding industry, Santa Cruz skateboard blanks are made from durable materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of street and park skating.
- Element: Element skateboard blanks are crafted with a focus on sustainability and performance, featuring high-quality maple wood that provides strength and flexibility.
- Almost: Almost skateboard blanks are popular for their unique construction methods, including the use of resin and lightweight materials, enhancing performance without sacrificing durability.
- Enjoi: Known for their fun graphics and reliable performance, Enjoi skateboard blanks are made from solid maple and are designed to cater to both beginners and advanced skaters.
Blank Decks: This brand is favored for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, appealing to skaters who prefer a minimalistic approach. Their boards are made from high-quality wood, ensuring a solid feel underfoot, while still being budget-friendly.
Santa Cruz: With a rich history in skateboarding culture, Santa Cruz offers blanks that are not only durable but also come in a variety of shapes suitable for different skating styles. Their boards are known for their pop and longevity, making them a reliable choice for skaters.
Element: Element emphasizes environmentally friendly practices in their production process, using sustainably sourced wood. Their skateboard blanks are designed for both performance and durability, making them ideal for skaters who prioritize both ethics and quality.
Almost: This brand stands out for its innovative construction techniques, which include the use of resin-epoxy technology to enhance durability. Almost blanks are lightweight yet sturdy, making them excellent for tricks and high-impact skating.
Enjoi: Enjoi combines solid construction with playful graphics, appealing to a wide range of skaters. Their skateboard blanks are crafted from quality maple wood, providing a reliable performance that suits skaters of all skill levels.
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting a Skateboard Blank?
When selecting the best skateboard blank, several key factors should be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and durability.
- Material: The material of the skateboard blank significantly affects its strength and weight. Common materials include maple wood, which is known for its durability and flexibility, and bamboo, which offers a lighter alternative with good responsiveness.
- Size: The size of the skateboard blank, including its width and length, should match the rider’s preferences and style. Wider boards provide more stability for tricks, while narrower boards are often favored for street skating and technical maneuvers.
- Shape: The shape of the skateboard blank can influence how it performs during tricks and how comfortable it is to ride. Common shapes include popsicle, which is versatile for tricks, and cruiser shapes, which provide a more relaxed riding experience.
- Concave: The concave of the skateboard blank determines how the board curves from nose to tail. A deeper concave can enhance grip and control for tricks, while a flatter concave may be more comfortable for cruising and casual riding.
- Price: The price of skateboard blanks can vary widely, so it’s important to find a balance between quality and budget. Higher-priced blanks often come with better materials and construction, which can lead to increased longevity and performance.
- Brand Reputation: Choosing a skateboard blank from a reputable brand can ensure quality and reliability. Established brands often have a history of producing high-quality products, which can provide peace of mind for riders.
- Weight Capacity: Different skateboard blanks have varying weight capacities, which is essential for ensuring that the board can support the rider’s weight without compromising performance or safety. Checking the manufacturer’s specifications can help in selecting the right blank for heavier riders.
What Benefits Can You Gain from Using a Blank Skateboard Deck?
Using a blank skateboard deck offers several benefits that can enhance your skating experience.
- Customization: A blank skateboard deck allows skaters to express their individuality through custom graphics, artwork, or stickers. This freedom to personalize the board makes it unique and reflects the skater’s personality.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Blank decks are often more affordable than branded ones, making them a budget-friendly option for beginners or those looking to replace their gear without breaking the bank. This allows skaters to spend their money on other essential equipment or accessories.
- Quality Materials: Many blank skateboard decks are made from high-quality materials and construction methods similar to those found in premium brands. This means you can enjoy a durable and reliable deck that performs well without the added cost of branding.
- Versatility: Blank decks can cater to various skateboarding styles, whether street, park, or vert skating. Their neutral design means they can easily adapt to different setups, making them a versatile choice for skaters who enjoy multiple disciplines.
- Learning Tool: For beginners, a blank skateboard deck can serve as a great learning tool. Without flashy graphics, it allows new skaters to focus solely on their technique and skills without being distracted by the aesthetics of a branded board.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Some manufacturers produce blank skateboard decks using sustainable materials, appealing to environmentally conscious skaters. Choosing such decks can reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying your favorite sport.
What Is the Typical Price Range for Quality Skateboard Blanks?
According to Statista, the global skateboard market was valued at approximately $2.2 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow, indicating an increasing interest in skateboarding. This growth suggests that demand for quality skateboard blanks may also rise as more individuals take up the sport or seek to customize their gear. Offering a range of affordable and quality skateboard blanks can help shops capitalize on this trend.
Best practices for selecting skateboard blanks include researching reputable brands known for their quality, checking reviews for durability and performance, and considering the specific needs of the skater. Additionally, skaters should take into account the width and length that best suits their style, as well as any preferences for concave shape. Customization can also be enhanced by using quality paints and graphics materials to ensure that the finished product is both visually appealing and functional.
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