Cold Press or Hot Press Decks, Which is Better?
Cold press or hot press – which skateboard deck is better?
The question of whether hot-pressed or cold-pressed skateboard decks are better cannot be answered definitively. Both manufacturing processes have specific advantages, and as is often the case in skateboarding, the choice largely depends on personal preference. Nevertheless, there are significant differences in materials, flex, durability, and production quality that you should be aware of.
What is the difference between cold pressed and hot pressed skateboard decks?
Skateboard decks consist of several layers of Canadian maple wood bonded together with adhesive and pressed into a mold. The main differences lie in the type of adhesive, temperature, and duration of the pressing process.
Cold Press Decks
Production process
In the cold press process, the individual layers of wood are coated with water-based adhesive and then pressed in the mold for at least one hour . Afterwards, the deck rests for about a week before further processing.
Material and adhesive properties
- The water-based adhesive penetrates deep into the wood pores.
- After hardening, it remains flexible and provides a more lively driving experience.
- Many manufacturers press multiple decks simultaneously (up to 5 per press).
As a result, decks in the middle of the press stack often have a shallower concave and less pronounced nose/tail kicks .
Advantages
- More flexible, softer pop
- More environmentally friendly adhesives
- Mostly manufactured in the USA, Mexico or Europe
Disadvantages
- Differences in concave depending on position in the press stack
- Slightly higher probability of delay
- Longer production time
Hot Press Decks
Production process
In the hot press process, manufacturers use epoxy resins . The layers of wood are placed in a heated mold and pressed for only about 5 minutes . Many brands press each deck individually , which allows for extremely precise and reproducible shapes.
Material and adhesive properties
- Epoxy resin hardens harder and stiffer than water-based adhesives.
- Decks retain their shape more consistently.
- Less prone to delay.
Advantages
- Very consistent concave
- Faster production process
- Stiffer deck with higher dimensional stability
Disadvantages
- Less flex and "lively" pop
- Epoxy resins were long considered less environmentally friendly.
Modern development
Plant-based epoxy resins that do not require petroleum now exist. High-quality hot press production facilities are primarily located in China.
Environmental aspects: Water-based adhesive vs. epoxy resin
- Water-based adhesives are traditionally considered more environmentally friendly.
- New plant resins significantly improve the environmental footprint of epoxy resins.
- Both processes can now be made more sustainable.
Which pressing method is better?
That depends primarily on your driving style:
Cold press is right for you if you:
- Want more flexibility?
- prefer a softer, more dynamic board response
- Decks from the USA or Europe preferred.
Hot Press is right for you if you:
- You want an absolutely constant concave
- prefer a stiffer, more stable board
- Looking for maximum shape stability?
FAQ
Are cold press decks more flexible?
Yes. Water-based adhesive remains more elastic and creates a more flexible deck.
Do hot press decks warp less?
In most cases, yes. Epoxy resin ensures high dimensional stability.
Do hot press decks last longer?
Many drivers report slightly longer durability, although this depends heavily on driving style.
What's better for high tricks?
Many advanced riders prefer Hot Press decks because of their precise and consistent concave.
