Table of Contents
When you're thinking about the skateboarding world, you're thinking about a lot more than just tricks and concrete. You're thinking about a culture, a community, and the gear that lets you express yourself on four wheels. Among the many brands vying for your attention, habitat skateboards has carved out a unique space. It's not just about slapping a logo on a piece of wood; it's about a philosophy, an aesthetic, and a commitment to quality that resonates with skaters of all levels.
1. The Allure of Habitat Skateboards: A Deep Examine
A Brand Steeped in Skateboarding History
Habitat Skateboards didn't just pop up overnight. The brand was founded in 1999 by Joe Castrucci, also co-founder of Alien Workshop, and Chris Carter. They envisioned a company that reflected a more artistic and nature-inspired side of skateboarding. Unlike some brands that focus solely on gnarly tricks and competition, Habitat aimed to capture the essence of skateboarding as a lifestyle, a form of creative expression, and a association with the environment.
More Than Just a Logo: The Habitat Aesthetic
What truly sets Habitat apart is its unique visual identity. While other brands might rely on bold graphics and aggressive imagery, Habitat often incorporates natural elements, geometric patterns, and a more subdued color palette. Think earthy tones, leaf motifs, and designs that evoke a sense of exploration and discovery. This aesthetic has attracted a dedicated following of skaters who appreciate a more refined and thoughtful approach to board design.
A Team That Embodies the Spirit
Of course, a brand is only as good as the team that represents it. Habitat has consistently supported a diverse roster of talented skaters, from seasoned pros to up-and-coming amateurs. These riders aren't just there to promote the product; they embody the brand's values and contribute to its creative direction. By showcasing a variety of styles and personalities, Habitat has cultivated a sense of community and authenticity that resonates with skaters worldwide.
Team Rider | Notable Style |
|---|---|
Silas Baxter-Neal | Technical, powerful |
Stefan Janoski | Creative, innovative |
Kerry Getz | Classic, stylish |
2. Habitat Skateboards: Construction, Materials, and Performance
Deck Construction: Layers of Quality
When you pick up a Habitat deck, you're not just holding a piece of wood. You're holding years of research and development. Habitat primarily uses 7-ply maple construction, which is an industry standard for its strength, flexibility, and pop. However, the quality of the maple itself can vary, and Habitat is known for sourcing high-grade maple for its decks. This attention to detail results in a board that feels responsive, durable, and provides a consistent riding experience.
Shape and Concave: Finding Your Sweet Spot
Beyond the materials, the shape and concave of a deck play a crucial role in its performance. Habitat offers a variety of shapes and concaves to cater to different skating styles. A mellow concave provides a more stable and predictable feel, ideal for beginners or skaters who prefer a more relaxed style. A steeper concave offers more aggressive pop and control, perfect for technical tricks and vert skating. Understanding the different types of concaves and how they affect your riding is essential for finding the right Habitat skateboard for you.
Deck Feature | Description | Impact on Performance |
|---|---|---|
7-Ply Maple | Standard construction using seven layers of maple wood. | Provides a balance of strength, flexibility, and pop. |
Mellow Concave | A gentle curve across the width of the deck. | Offers stability and predictability, suitable for beginners. |
Steep Concave | A more pronounced curve across the width of the deck. | Provides aggressive pop and control, suitable for technical tricks. |
3. Exploring the Habitat Skateboards Deck Lineup
Signature Decks: Rider Influence
One of the coolest things about Habitat is their signature deck series. These aren't just boards with a pro skater's name slapped on them. They're often designed in collaboration with the rider, reflecting their personal style and preferences. This means you can find decks with unique shapes, graphics, and concaves that cater to specific types of skating. For example, a Silas Baxter-Neal pro model might feature a more technical shape for precise foot placement, while a Stefan Janoski deck could have a more mellow concave for a relaxed, creative style. It's a way to connect with your favorite skaters and ride a board that truly represents their vision.
The Habitat Collection: A Variety of Styles
Beyond the signature series, Habitat offers a wide range of decks in their general collection. This includes everything from classic popsicle shapes to more unconventional designs. You'll find different sizes, concaves, and graphic styles to suit any preference. Whether you're looking for a standard 8.0" deck for street skating or a wider 8.5" for transition, Habitat has something for everyone. They also experiment with different construction methods, such as using resin epoxy for added strength and pop. Exploring the Habitat collection is a great way to uncover new shapes and find a deck that perfectly complements your riding style.
Deck Series | Key Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
Signature Series | Designed in collaboration with pro skaters, unique shapes and graphics | Skaters who want to emulate their favorite riders or prefer specific deck features |
Habitat Collection | Wide range of shapes, sizes, and graphics, various construction methods | Skaters who want to explore different deck options and find a board that matches their style |
4. Finding the Right Habitat Skateboard for Your Style
Alright, so you're digging the Habitat vibe and ready to commit. But how do you actually pick the right board? It's not like grabbing the first one you see and hoping for the best. Think of it like finding the perfect pair of shoes – you need something that fits your feet and your style. Start by considering where you usually skate. Are you a street skater who loves ledges and rails? Or do you prefer the flow of a skatepark with transitions and bowls? This will heavily influence the size and shape of the deck you need.
For street skating, a narrower deck (around 8.0" to 8.25") is often preferred. It's easier to flip and maneuver for technical tricks. If you're more into transition skating, a wider deck (8.25" and up) provides more stability and control. Also, pay attention to the concave. A steeper concave can make it easier to pop ollies and flip tricks, while a mellow concave offers a more forgiving and stable ride. Don't be afraid to try out different shapes and sizes until you find something that feels comfortable and responsive under your feet.
Finally, don't underestimate the strength of personal preference. The graphics, the feel of the wood, even the brand itself can influence your decision. If you're drawn to the natural aesthetic of Habitat Skateboards, go for it! If a particular pro skater's signature deck catches your eye, give it a try. Skateboarding is all about self-expression, so choose a board that inspires you and makes you want to get out there and shred.
Skating Style | Recommended Deck Size | Recommended Concave |
|---|---|---|
Street Skating | 8.0" - 8.25" | Steeper Concave |
Transition Skating | 8.25" and Up | Mellow Concave |
Final Thoughts on Habitat Skateboards
Ultimately, choosing a skateboard is a personal decision. What works for one skater might not work for another. However, by understanding the nuances of brands like Habitat Skateboards – their construction methods, deck varieties, and overall philosophy – you can make a more informed choice. Habitat offers a range of options for different skating styles and preferences. Whether you're drawn to their unique graphics, appreciate their dedication to quality, or simply want to support a brand with a strong identity, Habitat Skateboards are definitely worth considering for your next setup. So, go out there, find the Habitat deck that speaks to you, and keep pushing!