How Kneeboards Are Made

Many surfing enthusiasts enjoy alternative methods of riding the ocean's waves including a surfing technique called kneeboarding. Kneeboarding places the surfer's knees close to the board in a kneeling position. The rider travels across the waves with a lower center of gravity, providing the opportunity to create unique tricks and styles. Kneeboard manufacturing has evolved over the years for a comfortable, but practical, ride.

  1. History

    • Kneeboarding began in Southern California during the late 1960s. Initially, the kneeboard's design structure was meant to be towed behind a boat, much like common water skiing. The kneeboard was constructed in a teardrop shape, as well as having considerable weight compared to current kneeboard designs. The sport grew with the support of the surfing and water skiing community. The American Kneeboard Association was created in 1983, providing riding methods and regulations for future competitions.

    Fiberglass Composite Board

    • One particular kneeboard type is constructed from fiberglass. A manufacturer begins kneeboard construction with a basic wood sheet. The wood selection varies depending on manufacturers' preferences. Workers cut the wood into the desired kneeboard shape. Workers cover the wood with multiple layers of fiberglass cloth, adhering the cloth and wood with resin. The finished product can be painted, polished, and waxed. Fiberglass structure offers a smooth and waterproof surface, protecting the wood core.

    Rotomolded Plastic

    • Plastic is another material manufacturers use for kneeboard manufacturing. Workers use a rotational molding process for forming the final kneeboard product. A worker places a kneeboard mold inside a rotomolding machine. Measured amounts of plastic resin are poured into the mold. The mold moves into a heated oven where it rotates horizontally and vertically. This motion allows the resin to melt against the mold's walls in an even distribution. The heated mold moves into a cooling area while continuously rotating. Workers remove the new plastic kneeboard from the mold after completely cooling.

    Accessories

    • Both fiberglass and rotomolded kneeboards use knee straps and pads in their final construction. The knee strap effectively holds the rider to the kneeboard. Typically, the strap is wide, offering comfort and a strong attachment between the rider and the board. Manufacturers place flexible knee pads in the kneeboard for protecting the rider's knees during use.

    Advantages

    • Plastic kneeboards are typically used by beginning and intermediate riders. However, fiberglass kneeboards offer a stiffness that helps the rider perform more wave tricks. Advanced riders commonly choose fiberglass kneeboards for a more aggressive ride through the waves.