You ever wonder What is Fingerboard Grip Tape Made out of?
Like I get, it’s like sandpaper or foam..
We know there are several types of fingerboard grip tape but, like, how do they make it?
(Maybe these thoughts happen too close to 4:20?)
Well, fellow fingerboarders, welcome to a ‘Gripping Tale’ (see what I did there?)
It will unravel the secrets behind the creation of the essential element of our beloved Grip Tape.
In this wild adventure, we’ll peel back the layers and dive into the fascinating world of grip tape manufacturing.
From the humble beginnings to the intricate processes, get prepared to have your minds blown as we unveil the mystery behind this sticky wonder.
So stick around and embark on a journey filled with adhesive tales, textured triumphs, and the birth of traction that keeps us shredding.
Join me, Max Savage, as we delve into the captivating realm of grip tape production.
Let’s grip it and rip it
The Shred Line
What Standard Fingerboard Grip Tape is made of:
Standard fingerboard grip tape is often referred to as “sandpaper grip tape,”
But this fingerboard grip tape is not made from actual sandpaper.
While the texture and appearance may resemble sandpaper.
It is typically made from a specialized material designed specifically for fingerboarding.
The grip tape used in fingerboarding is made from a combination of synthetic materials.
This includes various grits of abrasive particles embedded in a durable adhesive backing.
What gives the fingerboard grip tape the gritty feel is typically made of a strong and durable material called silicon carbide.
Time to go deep with Bill Nye:
Silicon carbide is a hard abrasive mineral that is known for its excellent grip properties.
It is a synthetic compound consisting of silicon and carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure.
This material is widely used in various industries, including automotive, construction, and of course, fingerboarding.
The rough surface of sandpaper grip tape provides the necessary friction.
This ensures a solid grip between your fingers and the fingerboard, allowing for precise control and maneuverability during tricks and stunts.
How To attach the silicon carbide particles to the adhesive backing of the grip tape:
It requires a specific manufacturing process is employed.
Here’s a simplified explanation of how it’s done:
Adhesive Application:
The adhesive layer is first applied to the backing material, which is typically a flexible and durable material like PVC or fabric.
The adhesive serves as the foundation for securing the silicon carbide particles.
Sprinkling Silicon Carbide:
The silicon carbide particles, in the form of fine grains or powder, are then sprinkled onto the adhesive-coated surface.
This is usually done in a controlled environment to ensure an even distribution of the abrasive material.
Pressing and Curing:
Once the silicon carbide particles are evenly spread, the grip tape goes through a pressing process.
This applies pressure to the particles and helps them adhere firmly to the adhesive layer.
Additionally, the grip tape may undergo a curing process where it is heated or exposed to specific conditions to enhance the adhesive properties and bond strength.
Trimming and Finishing:
After the pressing and curing, the excess silicon carbide particles are trimmed off.
Left behind is the desired shape and texture on the grip tape.
The grip tape may also undergo further finishing processes.
This can include sanding or coating, to refine its surface and ensure consistent grip performance.
By carefully combining the adhesive layer with the sprinkled silicon carbide particles and going through the necessary manufacturing steps, grip tape manufacturers achieve the strong bond and effective grip that fingerboarders rely on for their tricks and maneuvers.
So, next time you’re shredding with sandpaper grip tape, remember that its grip comes from the mighty power of silicon carbide!
How Foam Fingerboard Grip Tape is Made:
Yes, fingerboard foam grip tape is typically made of foam material with an adhesive backing.
The exact composition of the foam grip tape may vary depending on the manufacturer, but it is commonly made from a combination of synthetic foam materials.
It is designed specifically for fingerboarding to provide a different grip experience compared to traditional sandpaper grip tape.
Who started Foam Fingerboard Grip Tape:
It has been told through rumors, that the first person to explore with Foam Grip Tape was known as Foamy McFingers.
The Story Goes:
One fateful day, while exploring a forgotten craft store tucked away in a hidden corner, Foamy stumbled upon a peculiar foam material.
It felt as if destiny had led him to this discovery.
With a mischievous grin, he knew he had found the missing piece to his fingerboarding puzzle.
Retreating to his secret workshop, Foamy delved into countless experiments, mixing and matching foam densities, refining textures, and adding a touch of magic.
Days turned into nights as he poured his heart and soul into perfecting his craft.
Finally, the moment of revelation arrived.
Foamy held his creation in his hands—a foam grip tape that defied all expectations.
Eager to test his invention, Foamy stretched his fingers…
Feeling the anticipation surge through his veins. As he glided across ramps and rails, the foam grip tape worked its magic.
It offered an unrivaled level of control, precision, and impact absorption.
With each trick, Foamy soared to new heights, pushing the boundaries of fingerboarding possibility.
Why Everyone Loves it:
It turned out the foam material used in fingerboard grip tape is soft and cushiony, offering a unique texture and feel.
It provides a different level of grip compared to sandpaper grip tape, allowing fingerboarders to have a more tactile and comfortable grip on their boards.
The adhesive backing on the foam grip tape allows it to be easily applied to the fingerboard deck. Even a newb shredder can easily figure out how to put foam grip tape on a fingerboard.
The adhesive ensures a secure and long-lasting bond between the foam grip tape and the deck surface. This ensures it stays in place during fingerboarding sessions.
The foam grip tape is usually pre-cut to the size of the fingerboard deck or comes in larger sheets that can be trimmed to fit.
Fingerboarders can choose different thicknesses and densities of foam grip tape based on their preferences and desired level of grip.
Don’t forget about style. What is pretty dope about foam grip tape, is you can get it in all sorts of colors or get crazy and get the ghostly white fingerboard foam tape.
Overall, fingerboard foam grip tape provides a unique and alternative grip option for fingerboarders.
This offer a softer and more cushioned feel compared to traditional sandpaper grip tape.
It adds variety and customization to the fingerboarding experience, allowing for different grip preferences and styles.
Gecko Grip Tape:
Now this is a mystery….
My Gecko Grip Tape has arrived and I will be doing an update about it very soon!
Outro
As we come to the end of our exploration into the world of fingerboard grip tape, it’s clear that this essential component plays a crucial role in enhancing your fingerboarding experience.
We got classic sandpaper texture, foam options to the innovative grip tapes. Some people even talk about the lengendary Louis Vuitton Fingerboard Grip Tape that has only been spoken of in rare circles. No matter which you choose, you get to express your unique style.
Whether you opt for the rugged durability of standard grip tape or the cushioned comfort of foam grip tape, just remember that it’s all about finding what suits you best.
So go ahead, experiment with different types, colors, and designs, and let your grip tape be a reflection of your fingerboarding prowess and personality. Happy shredding!