The Powell Peralta Flight Deck has garnered significant attention in the skateboarding community, often hailed as one of the most durable decks on the market. But does it truly live up to the hype? This review delves into the specifics of the Flight Deck, examining its construction, performance, and whether it’s a worthy investment for serious skaters. Having tested numerous flight decks for both durability and pop, I can confidently say that this board is built to last, typically far outperforming traditional 7-ply maple decks, even under hardcore skating conditions. While it is possible to break, it’s much more likely to crack after extensive use rather than snapping in half.
The Flight Deck stands out for its lighter weight, responsive feel, and long-lasting pop. It’s stiff, poppy, and notably durable, though its lifespan can be affected if you frequently use the tail for braking. While older models were known to cause skin irritation from fiberglass when worn, newer versions have significantly improved this issue. Despite its premium reputation, the question remains: is the Flight Deck worth the higher price tag compared to a standard deck?
What Makes the Powell Peralta Flight Deck Special?
The Powell Peralta Flight Deck is undeniably one of the strongest and best skateboard decks currently available. While the brand claims it can last up to 10 times longer than a standard deck, my experience suggests that three times longer is a more realistic expectation for hardcore skaters. The truth is, this deck is incredibly difficult to break, making it ideal for heavier skaters or those prone to snapping their boards. The frustration of breaking a new deck is significantly reduced when riding a Flight Deck.
Powell Peralta Flight Deck
The construction of the Flight Deck involves two layers of triaxial fiberglass, bound together with a black (and purportedly secret) epoxy resin that holds the five maple wood plies together. This unique combination results in exceptional pop and prevents the deck from losing its snap even after extensive use.
Powell Peralta Flight Deck Construction
The top layer, composed of the triaxial fiberglass, might appear unusual to skaters used to traditional maple wood, but it definitely adds a cool, modern aesthetic to the board.
Durability and Performance Under Scrutiny
So far, the Flight Deck has held up exceptionally well. After skating this particular deck for close to 90 hours, it remains impressively pop-fresh and snappy.
Powell Peralta Flight Deck Wear
While the graphics tend to wear off quickly (a common issue with many decks), the main focus is on the board’s performance, not its aesthetics. Decks are meant to be skated and destroyed, after all. The tail of the Flight Deck has proven to be significantly more durable than standard decks, resisting razor tail for a longer time. Although it will eventually succumb to wear, proper maintenance can extend its lifespan. While not completely razor tail-resistant, it certainly lasts longer than a traditional 7-ply deck.
We eventually managed to snap the board using significant force. Initially, a crack appeared, but it was still skateable. After repeated attempts, it finally broke in half.
Broken Powell Peralta Flight Deck
Updates after testing multiple Flight Decks show that they are indeed a worthwhile investment. They remain skateable even after cracking, though the feel is a bit unsettling. Wear is minimal, with no signs of pressure cracks or chipping. If you frequently perform flip tricks, the sidewalls will wear down over time.
Is the Flight Deck the Right Choice for You?
Ultimately, whether or not to purchase a Flight Deck is a personal decision. However, many skaters can certainly benefit from the deck’s resilience, responsiveness, and snappy feel. It’s a deck that feels excellent under your feet, enhancing your overall skating experience. While it may not have the same level of pop as a hard rock maple deck, it provides more than enough pop for executing big ollies and tricks.
Skateboarder Ollies
When to Consider Buying
If you have the budget, frequently break decks, prioritize top-tier performance, or simply want a deck that looks and feels amazing, the Flight Deck is an excellent choice. Its unique design and great graphics often inspire skaters to hit the streets and push their limits.
Here are a few popular Flight Deck models:
Even though the Flight Deck is priced around $100-110, the investment can pay off if you frequently break decks. It’s an ideal choice for experienced technical skaters and those who demand the best equipment. It’s also a great conversation starter. Another significant advantage is the delamination warranty, which covers the board for its useful life, though after testing numerous decks, we have never encountered delamination issues. You can find the Flight Deck on Amazon.
When to Reconsider
Previously, when the Flight Decks were priced around $70, they were an absolute steal. However, at their current price point, it’s important to consider the investment carefully. It’s worth noting that the claim that it lasts ten times longer than a standard deck might be a bit of an exaggeration, especially when comparing it to decks from other reputable manufacturers rather than cheap blank boards.
The fiberglass construction may also be a dealbreaker for some skaters with sensitive skin. As the board wears, the fibers can cause splinters. Other durable decks are available at a lower price point, so it is crucial to research and make an informed decision before purchasing. Lastly, while the board wears slower than others, once the tail begins to degrade, the fiberglass can result in a very sharp and unforgiving razor tail.
Alternative Durable Skateboard Deck Options
Powell Peralta isn’t the sole provider of durable skateboard decks. Several other companies offer quality alternatives. Here are a few to consider:
Santa Cruz VX
Santa Cruz VX Skateboard Deck
The Santa Cruz VX, introduced recently, features five plies of maple and two layers of fiberglass. This deck has a bit more flex compared to a 7-ply maple deck and is slightly heavier than the Flight Deck. It has a more pronounced concave, making it a good choice for technical skaters who appreciate a responsive, poppy board that resists snapping.
Lithe Nex & Lithe Slate 3
The Lithe Slate 3 is arguably one of the most durable decks on the market, closely followed by the Lithe Nex. While the Nex is more budget-friendly, the Slate 3 is geared towards skaters with a larger budget. Both are exceptional decks known for their longevity, and they are ideal for skaters who want to avoid razor tails and chipped decks. Although slightly heavier than other options, their resilience makes them a solid contender.
Emillion Fibertech Decks
Emillion offers fiberglass-enhanced decks that maintain their pop and snappiness for extended periods. These decks outperform regular maple decks and provide a stiffer, medium concave feel, which takes some time to get used to, but many skaters find it enjoyable.
Lib Tech Skateboard Decks
Lib Tech decks are crafted using a mix of fiberglass and maple wood, making them exceptionally durable. These decks are suitable for heavy skaters and those who demand peak performance. Handmade with various materials, these boards are known for their quality and are considered an eco-friendly option.
P2 Decks
P2 decks offer an alternative for skaters seeking extra strength. These decks feature six maple layers and kevlar fiber on top. They come with a 45-day guarantee, allowing returns if the nose or tail chips or if the deck breaks during boardslides or disaster tricks.
Dwindle Impact
Setup for Heavy Skateboarders
Dwindle’s Impact decks incorporate carbon discs around the bolt holes, absorbing impact and increasing deck longevity. They offer various models including regular Impact, Impact Light, and Impact Plus, which features eight maple plies, two carbon discs, and a carbon-fiber top laminated insert. After extensive testing, the Dwindle Impact deck has proven to be a solid and durable option for a reasonable price, with minimal signs of wear.
Conclusion: Innovation in Deck Technology
It’s encouraging to see companies pushing the boundaries of skateboard deck technology. While a snapping deck can be beneficial for business, it can damage brand reputations over time. The advancements made by Powell Peralta, and the positive responses from skaters, indicate a promising direction for the industry. The Flight Deck embodies the evolution of skateboard decks by integrating new materials for enhanced durability and performance.
While the Flight Deck might not last as long as claimed, it is undoubtedly a great investment for skaters who frequently break boards. Although there might be a learning curve to adapt to the feel and flex, the Flight Deck is a worthy investment for those willing to explore innovative technology in skateboarding. Despite its high price, it remains incredibly popular, demonstrating its value within the skateboarding community. If you can justify the price, it is definitely worth a try.
