Last Updated on October 5, 2024
Sandboarding is a sport that involves riding down sand dunes on a specially designed board.
While it shares some similarities with snowboarding, the equipment and techniques used are quite different.
Sandboards are specifically engineered to handle sandy surfaces, which means they have a harder base compared to snowboards. This base is often made from materials like laminex or formica, allowing for smoother gliding over sand.
The construction of sandboards may also include wood, plastic composites, or fiberglass, depending on the manufacturer and the intended use of the board.
Types of Sandboards
To enhance performance and prevent getting stuck in the sand, all sandboards feature an upturned nose. There are several tail designs available, each serving a different purpose:
- Twin Tip Sandboards: These boards have two identical upturned edges, making them versatile for riding in either direction. This design is particularly useful for those who wish to perform tricks or switch directions easily.
- Swallow Tail Sandboards: Known for their V-shaped cutout at the tail, these boards offer improved maneuverability. This feature allows riders to navigate diverse terrains with greater ease.
- Square Tail Sandboards: Designed primarily for racing, these boards are built for speed and are optimized for straight-line performance. They excel in situations where quick acceleration is necessary.
In addition to the sandboard itself, riders typically require protective gear such as helmets and knee pads to ensure safety during use. As a relatively new sport that gained popularity in the 1990s, the number of manufacturers specializing in sandboarding equipment is less than those in snowboarding.
Top Sandboard Manufacturers in the USA
The following table presents some notable sandboard manufacturers in the United States, ranked by their estimated annual revenue:
Company | Location | Employees | Estimated Revenue |
---|---|---|---|
The (Silver Lake) Sandbox | Mears, Michigan | 22 | $4 Million |
Venomous Sandboards | Florence, Oregon | 9 | $1 Million |
Slip Face Sandboards LLC | Provo, Utah | 2 | $0.1 Million |
Sand Master Park | Florence, Oregon | 7 | $0.18 Million |
- Silver Lake Sand Box: Based in Mears, Michigan, Silver Lake Sand Box specializes in manufacturing sandboards and accessories. The company is located at 8437 W Silver Lake Rd, Mears, MI 49436, and is known for its high-quality products that cater to both recreational users and competitive sandboarders. The firm is situated near the popular Silver Lake Sand Dunes, making it a prime destination for sandboarding enthusiasts.
- Venomous Sandboards: Located in Florence, Oregon, Venomous Sandboards is recognized as the largest manufacturer of sandboards in the United States. The company has established a strong reputation for producing high-quality boards that cater to both recreational riders and competitive athletes. Venomous is frequently involved in significant sandboarding events such as the Sandboarding World Championship and other local competitions.
- Slip Face Sandboards: Based near Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park in Utah, Slip Face Sandboards specializes in manufacturing sandboards along with related accessories such as wax and sleds. The company benefits from its proximity to popular sandboarding locations, attracting both locals and tourists interested in the sport.
Noteworthy International Sandboard Manufacturers
The international landscape of sandboarding includes several prominent manufacturers that contribute significantly to the sport:
AIA Sandboards: Founded in 2006 and based in Florianópolis, Brazil, AIA Sandboards focuses on creating high-quality boards designed for optimal performance on sandy surfaces. Their commitment to innovation has made them a notable player in the market.
Above Sandboards: Established by Australian Simon Hunt in Dubai during the 1990s, Above Sandboards caters to both semi-professional and professional riders. The company has gained recognition for its high-performance products that meet market demand.
Nomada Sandboards: Founded by professional sandboarder Abraham Frettel in Peru, Nomada specializes in manufacturing sandboards and sleds with options available for worldwide distribution. Their products are particularly favored among enthusiasts and educational institutions focused on sandboarding.
Wild West Sandboards: Located in Melville, a suburb of Perth in Western Australia, Wild West Sandboards produces handmade sandboards available in three sizes—long, medium, and junior. Crafted from marine-grade plywood, these boards feature a robust laminex deck and bottom, ensuring durability while offering a variety of designs.
Ocean Culture Sandboard Shop: Founded in 1994, Ocean Culture Sandboard Shop is an Australian manufacturer based in South Australia that offers a range of sandboarding products. Their inventory includes sandboards, sleds, board wax, apparel, and various accessories. The company is open to trade inquiries and supports the sandboarding community with its diverse offerings.
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