How are Snowboards all put Together?

The Core

Snowboard construction begins with wood. Large wood pieces are vertically stacked and laminated together to form the core of the board. Different thicknesses of wood in the core will determine board characteristics such as flexibility and weight. Once laminated, the wood is cut to the desired shape. At this point the wood is shaped like a snowboard but is still flat; the ends do not yet curve upward.

Binding Hardware

Holes are drilled into the still flat but now snowboard-shaped wood. These holes will accept the hardware used to attach the bindings to the board. A thin sheet of fiberglass is placed over these holes and then aluminum or stainless steel inserts are placed into the holes. The fiberglass sheet adds stability to the inserts making them sturdier.

Tops and Bottoms

Fiberglass is now applied to the bottom of the board in several thin layers using an epoxy or special resin. Some companies use hardened fiberglass sheets that are cut to size, while others heat the fiberglass and apply it in liquid form. The top of the board is made of fiberglass or plastic layers, depending upon the board manufacturer. Any graphics or decals are placed on one of the fiberglass or plastic layers. The plastic and fiberglass both serve to stiffen the board. At this point in the process, higher-end manufacturers install a steel edge around the snowboard to help control the board's speed and turning as well as to prevent slipping on ice.

Molding

Once all the layers of the snowboard are put together, the board is placed in a press. The press shapes the snowboard by curving up the top ends of the board. The board is removed from the mold and allowed to dry. Once dry any excess fiberglass or epoxy are cut off of the board using a band saw. Saw blades are changed often, about every 50 snowboards, because the trimming work must be very exact. The board edges are sanded after they are trimmed.

Finishing

A coat of varnish is now applied to the snowboard. This varnish coat is then sanded down. Holes are drilled into the board at the exact location of the binding hardware placed earlier so that bindings can be attached. The board is then given a final coat of varnish. Some manufacturers also wax the bottom of the board, a practice that some say is no longer necessary due to the materials used in today's snowboards. All that is left to do now is attach your bindings and have some fun.