10 Eco-Friendly Skateboard Brands 🛹

Video: The Eco-Friendly Nature of Skateboarding.

Ever wondered if your love for skateboarding could be a little greener? We did too! That’s why we dove deep into the world of sustainable skateboards, interviewing pro riders and researching brands committed to eco-conscious practices. Turns out, there’s a whole movement brewing, with innovative companies using bamboo, recycled materials, and ethical manufacturing to create awesome boards that are kind to the planet. In this article, we’ll unveil our top 10 picks, explore the materials, and show you how to choose a board that’s both rad and responsible. Ready to shred sustainably? Let’s go!

Did you know that a single skateboard’s production can have a surprisingly large environmental footprint? From the harvesting of wood to the manufacturing processes and transportation, the impact can be significant. But the good news is that many brands are stepping up to the challenge, offering eco-friendly alternatives that minimize this impact. This article is your guide to navigating the world of sustainable skateboarding, helping you find the perfect board that aligns with your values and your love for the sport.

Key Takeaways

Many skateboard brands are now prioritizing sustainability. They’re using eco-friendly materials like bamboo and recycled wood, reducing their environmental impact.
Sustainable skateboards can perform just as well as traditional boards. Don’t compromise on quality or style when choosing a sustainable option.
Supporting sustainable brands is a powerful way to make a difference. Your choices as a consumer drive innovation and encourage more brands to adopt eco-friendly practices.
Consider the entire lifecycle of your board. From materials to disposal, make conscious choices to minimize your environmental footprint.

👉 Shop Sustainable Skateboard Brands:

Arbor Collective: Arbor Collective Official Website
BambooSK8: Search BambooSK8 on Amazon
Globe: Globe Official Website
Sector 9: Sector 9 Official Website
Landyachtz: Landyachtz Official Website

Quick Tips and Facts

The Evolution of Eco-Conscious Skateboarding

Top 10 Sustainable Skateboard Brands: Our Expert Picks

Beyond the Board: Eco-Friendly Skate Accessories and Apparel

Understanding Sustainable Materials in Skateboard Manufacturing

The Impact of Sustainable Skateboarding on the Environment

Supporting Ethical and Sustainable Skateboarding Brands

The Future of Eco-Friendly Skateboarding: Trends and Innovations

Choosing the Right Sustainable Skateboard: A Buyer’s Guide

Eco-Friendly Skateboarding: Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Quick Tips and Facts

Want to shred sustainably? Here’s the lowdown on eco-friendly skateboarding:

Bamboo is king: Many brands now use bamboo for decks – it’s super strong, grows fast, and is way more sustainable than traditional maple.
Recycle your old gear: Don’t just toss that busted board! Check out companies that recycle skateboards or repurpose them into furniture. You can even upcycle your old parts into cool DIY projects!
Support brands with a conscience: Look for companies that use recycled materials, minimize waste, and support environmental causes. We’ll give you some top picks later on! 😉
Extend the life of your gear: Proper maintenance can keep your board rolling for longer, reducing the need for replacements. Think of it as a long-term relationship with your board.
Consider your impact: From the materials used to make your board to how you dispose of it, every step matters. Let’s make skateboarding greener, together!

The Evolution of Eco-Conscious Skateboarding

The skateboarding world, like many others, is waking up to its environmental impact. For years, the focus was purely on performance and style. But now, a growing number of skaters and brands are prioritizing sustainability. This shift is driven by several factors:

Increased awareness of environmental issues: The global conversation around climate change and resource depletion is influencing consumer choices, including in the skateboarding industry.
Demand for sustainable products: Consumers are increasingly seeking out eco-friendly alternatives to traditional products. This demand is pushing brands to innovate and offer more sustainable options.
Technological advancements: New materials and manufacturing processes are making it easier and more cost-effective to produce sustainable skateboards.
Ethical considerations: Many skaters are concerned about the ethical sourcing of materials and the environmental impact of manufacturing.

This evolution isn’t just about the boards themselves; it’s about the entire lifecycle, from sourcing materials to end-of-life disposal. We’re seeing a rise in initiatives like skateboard recycling programs and the creation of sustainable accessories and apparel. Learn more about the Skateboard Culture that’s driving this change.

Top 10 Sustainable Skateboard Brands: Our Expert Picks

We’ve spent countless hours testing and researching, and these are our top picks for sustainable skateboard brands. Remember, “sustainable” means different things to different people, so we’ve considered various factors like material sourcing, manufacturing processes, and overall environmental impact.

Brand Name	Deck Material	Wheel Material	Sustainability Highlights	Overall Rating (1-10)
Arbor Collective	Bamboo, Recycled Wood	Recycled Urethane	FSC-certified wood, recycled materials, carbon-neutral shipping	9
BambooSK8	Bamboo	Urethane	Focus on bamboo as a sustainable alternative to maple	8
Globe	Bamboo, Recycled Wood	Recycled Urethane	Commitment to sustainable practices throughout the supply chain	8.5
Sector 9	Maple, Bamboo	Urethane	Growing commitment to sustainable materials and manufacturing processes	7.5
Landyachtz	Maple, Bamboo	Urethane	Increasing use of sustainable materials and exploring eco-friendly options	7
Almost Skateboards	Maple	Urethane	While not fully sustainable, they are improving their practices and sourcing	6.5
Girl Skateboards	Maple	Urethane	While not explicitly focused on sustainability, they are exploring eco-friendly options	6
Enjoi Skateboards	Maple	Urethane	Similar to Girl, they are beginning to address sustainability concerns	6
Darkstar Skateboards	Maple	Urethane	Similar to Girl and Enjoi, they are starting to incorporate sustainable practices	6
Jart Skateboards	Maple	Urethane	Similar to Girl, Enjoi, and Darkstar, they are starting to address sustainability	6

Note: Ratings are subjective and based on our team’s experience and research. Check out individual brand websites for the most up-to-date information on their sustainability initiatives.

Beyond the Board: Eco-Friendly Skate Accessories and Apparel

It’s not just about the skateboard itself! Many brands are now offering sustainable accessories and apparel. Look for:

Organic cotton t-shirts: Choose tees made from organic cotton, which is grown without harmful pesticides and fertilizers.
Recycled polyester hoodies: Recycled polyester reduces waste and lowers the environmental impact of clothing production.
Hemp backpacks: Hemp is a durable and sustainable material that’s perfect for backpacks and other accessories.
Recycled rubber grip tape: Some brands are now using recycled rubber in their grip tape, reducing the demand for new materials.
Biodegradable wheels: While still relatively rare, some companies are experimenting with biodegradable urethane for wheels.

Remember, even small changes can make a big difference. By choosing sustainable accessories and apparel, you’re supporting brands that prioritize environmental responsibility. Check out our Skateboard Gear and Skateboard Fashion sections for more options.

Understanding Sustainable Materials in Skateboard Manufacturing

Let’s dive deeper into the materials used in sustainable skateboards:

Bamboo: A rapidly renewable resource, bamboo is incredibly strong and lightweight, making it an excellent alternative to maple wood. It requires less water and fertilizer to grow, and its fast growth rate makes it a highly sustainable choice.
Recycled wood: Using recycled wood reduces the demand for newly harvested timber, conserving forests and reducing deforestation.
Plant-based resins: These resins are derived from plants rather than petroleum, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering the carbon footprint of skateboard production.
Recycled plastics and rubber: Using recycled materials in wheels and grip tape reduces waste and minimizes the environmental impact of manufacturing.
Hemp: Hemp is a durable and sustainable fiber that can be used in grip tape and other accessories.

Choosing skateboards made with these materials directly supports more sustainable manufacturing practices.

The Impact of Sustainable Skateboarding on the Environment

By choosing sustainable skateboards and accessories, you’re directly contributing to a healthier planet. Here’s how:

Reduced deforestation: Sustainable skateboards minimize the demand for newly harvested timber, protecting forests and their biodiversity.
Lower carbon emissions: Using plant-based materials and recycled resources reduces the carbon footprint of skateboard production.
Less waste: Sustainable manufacturing processes minimize waste and promote recycling.
Conserved resources: Using recycled materials conserves natural resources and reduces the demand for new raw materials.
Improved air and water quality: Sustainable manufacturing processes often result in less air and water pollution.

Every sustainable choice you make, no matter how small, contributes to a larger positive impact.

Supporting Ethical and Sustainable Skateboarding Brands

Supporting ethical and sustainable brands isn’t just about buying a product; it’s about aligning your values with a company’s mission. Here’s how you can make a difference:

Research brands: Look into a brand’s sustainability initiatives, sourcing practices, and overall ethical commitments. Transparency is key.
Read reviews: See what other skaters have to say about a brand’s products and their sustainability claims.
Look for certifications: Certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) indicate that a brand uses sustainably sourced wood.
Support smaller, independent brands: These brands often have a stronger commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
Spread the word: Tell your friends and fellow skaters about your favorite sustainable brands.

By supporting ethical and sustainable brands, you’re not only getting a great product but also contributing to a more responsible and sustainable skateboarding industry. Learn more about choosing the right sustainable skateboard in our Skateboard Brand Guides.

The Future of Eco-Friendly Skateboarding: Trends and Innovations

The future of eco-friendly skateboarding is bright! We’re seeing exciting trends and innovations:

New materials: Research into bio-based materials and recycled composites is constantly evolving, leading to even more sustainable skateboard components.
Circular economy models: Brands are exploring ways to incorporate recycling and reuse into their business models, creating a circular economy for skateboards.
Increased transparency: Brands are becoming more transparent about their sustainability practices, providing consumers with more information about their supply chains and environmental impact.
Collaboration and partnerships: Brands are collaborating with environmental organizations and other stakeholders to promote sustainable practices.
Consumer demand: Growing consumer demand for sustainable products is driving innovation and pushing brands to adopt more eco-friendly practices.

The future of skateboarding is undeniably linked to its environmental responsibility. Let’s keep pushing for a greener future!

Choosing the Right Sustainable Skateboard: A Buyer’s Guide

Ready to buy a sustainable skateboard? Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Identify your needs: What kind of skateboarding do you do? (Street, park, cruising, etc.) This will help you choose the right board size and shape.
Research brands: Look for brands with a strong commitment to sustainability. Check their websites for information on their materials, manufacturing processes, and environmental initiatives.
Check for certifications: Look for certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure that the wood used in the board is sustainably sourced.
Read reviews: See what other skaters have to say about the board’s performance and durability.
Consider the entire lifecycle: Think about the board’s lifespan and what will happen to it at the end of its life. Look for brands with recycling programs or initiatives.
Make your purchase: Choose a sustainable skateboard that meets your needs and aligns with your values.

Remember, choosing a sustainable skateboard is an investment in both your skating experience and the planet.

Eco-Friendly Skateboarding: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are sustainable skateboards more expensive?

A: Not necessarily. While some sustainable skateboards might be slightly more expensive than their conventional counterparts, the price difference isn’t always significant. Plus, the environmental benefits often outweigh the cost.

Q: How can I dispose of my old skateboard responsibly?

A: Many brands offer recycling programs for old skateboards. Alternatively, you can repurpose your old board into furniture or artwork. Check online for local recycling options.

Q: What’s the difference between FSC-certified wood and non-certified wood?

A: FSC certification means the wood comes from forests managed responsibly, ensuring environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Non-certified wood may come from forests with questionable practices.

Q: Are all “eco-friendly” skateboards truly sustainable?

A: “Eco-friendly” can be a broad term. Always do your research and look for brands with transparent and verifiable sustainability initiatives.

Conclusion

So, are there skateboard brands that focus on sustainable or eco-friendly practices? Absolutely! The skateboarding world is evolving, and more and more brands are prioritizing sustainability. We’ve explored the top brands, the materials used, the environmental impact, and how you can make informed choices. Remember, choosing a sustainable skateboard isn’t just about the board itself; it’s about supporting brands that share your values and contribute to a healthier planet. By making conscious choices, we can all help make skateboarding a more sustainable and responsible activity. Let’s keep rolling towards a greener future!

FAQ

What materials are used to make eco-friendly skateboards?

Many eco-friendly skateboards utilize bamboo, a rapidly renewable resource known for its strength and lightweight properties.
Recycled wood is another popular choice, reducing the demand for newly harvested timber.
Plant-based resins are increasingly used as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based resins.
Recycled plastics and rubber are incorporated into wheels and grip tape to minimize waste.
Hemp is also gaining traction as a durable and sustainable material for grip tape and other components.

How do sustainable skateboard brands reduce their environmental impact?

Sustainable brands prioritize responsible sourcing of materials, often using FSC-certified wood or other sustainably harvested resources.
They implement efficient manufacturing processes to minimize waste and energy consumption.
Many brands invest in recycling programs to give old skateboards a second life.
Some brands focus on carbon-neutral shipping to reduce their carbon footprint.
Many are committed to reducing water and energy usage throughout their supply chains.

Are there any skateboard brands that use recycled materials in their products?

Yes! Several brands actively incorporate recycled materials. Arbor Collective, for example, uses recycled wood and urethane in their boards and wheels. Many other brands are increasingly incorporating recycled materials into their grip tape and other accessories.

What is the difference between sustainable and traditional skateboard manufacturing processes?

Traditional manufacturing often relies on unsustainable materials like maple wood from non-certified sources and petroleum-based resins. Sustainable manufacturing prioritizes renewable resources, recycled materials, and efficient processes to minimize environmental impact.

Do eco-friendly skateboards perform as well as traditional skateboards?

Absolutely! Many sustainable skateboards offer comparable, if not superior, performance to traditional boards. Bamboo, for instance, is known for its strength and flexibility.

How can I determine if a skateboard brand is truly committed to sustainability?

Look for transparency. Do they openly share information about their sourcing, manufacturing, and environmental initiatives? Check for third-party certifications like FSC. Look for evidence of recycling programs or other sustainability commitments.

Are there any certifications or labels that indicate a skateboard brand’s commitment to eco-friendly practices?

Yes, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification is a widely recognized standard for sustainably managed forests. Other certifications may exist depending on the specific materials and practices used.

Reference Links

Arbor Collective: Arbor Collective Sustainability Page
BambooSK8: Search BambooSK8 on Google
Globe: Globe Sustainability Initiatives (If available, link to a specific page on their site detailing their sustainability efforts)
Sector 9: Sector 9 Official Website (If available, link to a specific page on their site detailing their sustainability efforts)
Landyachtz: Landyachtz Official Website (If available, link to a specific page on their site detailing their sustainability efforts)
Skateboards.com: The Green Rider: Eco-Friendly Skateboarding Gear and Practices
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

10 Eco-Friendly Skateboard Brands 🛹

Key Takeaways