Draft:Sandboard

• Comment: Rather than creating a new article on this topic, my suggestion would be to work on expanding Sandboarding#Equipment instead. The section could eventually be split into a new article if there are sufficient sources to write a separate article about sandboards. MCE89 (talk) 05:45, 22 June 2025 (UTC)

• Comment: Sandboard Mulberry999 (talk) 05:40, 22 June 2025 (UTC)

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A sandboard is a specialized board designed for sliding down sand dunes. It is similar in concept to a snowboard but adapted specifically for the abrasive and shifting surface of sand.

Design and Construction

Core and Deck

Sandboards typically have a core made from laminated hardwood plywood, using woods such as maple, beech, poplar, spruce, or aspen. The plywood layers are arranged cross-grain to enhance strength and durability. Some boards incorporate composite materials like fiberglass and epoxy resin to improve strength while maintaining lightness.

Base Material

The base is the most critical part of a sandboard, designed to resist abrasion from sand and provide smooth sliding. Common base materials include melamine laminates such as Formica or Laminex, which create a hard, durable surface similar to tabletop laminates. These bases perform well on many sand types but wear down over time, especially on abrasive volcanic or quarry sands.

Other base materials include plastics like ABS or stainless steel, though stainless steel bases are heavier and less common. The choice of base depends on sand type and terrain.

Layers and Laminates

Multiple layers are bonded with wood glue or epoxy. Fiberglass sheets are laminated on either side of the wooden core to stiffen the board and control flexibility. The fiberglass weave pattern and density affect the board’s strength and flex characteristics.

Inserts and Bindings

Steel inserts embedded in the board allow attachment of bindings or foot straps, securing the rider’s feet for better control.

Waxing

Waxing with paraffin-based sandboard wax is essential to reduce friction and improve glide. Wax also protects the base from wear caused by abrasive sand.

DIY and Commercial Boards

Sandboards can be homemade using plywood and Formica bases, making them accessible to enthusiasts. Commercial boards often feature advanced laminates, fiberglass layers, and high-quality bases for durability and performance.

Usage

Sandboards are used primarily on desert and coastal dunes. Riders ascend dunes by foot or vehicle and slide down the slopes. Unlike snowboarding, mechanical lifts are generally unavailable on sand dunes.

Materials Summary

Component	Common Materials	Notes
Core	Laminated hardwood plywood (maple, beech, poplar)	Provides strength and flex control
Base	Melamine laminate (Formica, Laminex), plastics, stainless steel	Hard, abrasion-resistant; requires waxing
Fiberglass	Various weaves and densities	Adds strength and stiffness
Inserts	Steel nuts	For binding attachments
Wax	Paraffin-based sandboard wax	Reduces friction and protects base

See also

• Sandboarding