Fingerboard Concave Guide: Which Mold Profile Do You Need?

Concave depth and kick angle are the two biggest factors in how a fingerboard deck feels and performs. Here's how to match the mold to your riding style.

Understanding Concave

Concave is the curved, bowl-shaped depression running across the width of the deck. It determines how your fingers sit, how much edge feel you get, and how much leverage you have for flick tricks like kickflips.

Shallow Concave (W27)

Feel: Flat and stable. Fingers sit more on top of the board with a large contact area.
Best for: Beginners, cruising/carving moves, riders transitioning from flat decks.
Tricks: Better for manual tricks and slides; less pop on kickflips.

Deep Concave (D27, BH25)

Feel: Firm grip, precise edge feel, maximum flick leverage.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders, technical trick specialists.
Tricks: Kickflips, heelflips, and tech tricks benefit most from deep concave. Requires more developed technique.

High Kick / Warped Profiles

Kick angle (nose and tail elevation) determines how much pop you can generate. High kick = more explosive pop, more aggressive feel. Warped profiles add a twist dimension for unique trick response.

Metal Bump Design

Some molds feature raised bump patterns on the pressing surface. These create subtle texture on the underside of the deck, improving grip tape adhesion and deck feel.

Our Recommendation

New builder: Start with W27 shallow concave — learn consistent pressing first
Intermediate: Move to D27 or BH25 for proper technical trick feel
High volume / pro: Metal Deck Mold for 50+ boards per month without mold drift