Flax On The Beach Skateboards

Flax Fibre composite skateboards, 100% Fiberglass free.

Surfboards are not the only products where fiberglass is applied.

Skateboards (or longboards) also make use of fiberglass. It is often sandwiched within the layers of wood to make the boards stronger, lighter and give a nice flexibility. This flexibility makes the ride more comfortable and gives the board a nice springy feel, especially in turns.

Unfortunately fiberglass is not the healthiest or most sustainable material to work with. These boards use natural flax fibre instead. Drawing a lot of inspiration from the way surfboards are produced.

A Partially plant based epoxy resin is used to laminate the fibres to the core of pressed wood. The surface is then sanded and pollished. The resin provides an extremely durable waterproof coating on the bottom of the board, protecting it against sand, gravel and the elements.

Instead of hiding the fibres within the layer the flax fibre is applied to the bottom of the deck, where it is needed most. This gives the boards a completely different outlook and creates endless visual possibilities. It is possible to dye the fibres (in this case with natural indigo) or print on them before laminating, even the colour of the wood underneath will effect the outcome.

A perfect recipe for custom skateboards, and they ride like a dream!

Exhibited at the Design Academy Graduation Show & The Embassy of Sustainability, Dutch Design Week 2019