Hemp on the Halfpipe

[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]T[/dropcap]he integration of hemp into mainstream production appears to be right around the corner as more and more companies take it upon themselves to abandon traditional practices of production that are more harmful to the Earth. The cultivation of industrial hemp, once a common practice, has been hindered throughout modern history by federal laws that placed the plant in the Schedule I drug category despite containing non-psychoactive components. Before its prohibition, hemp was often used for paper and textile products dating back to the 18th century and beyond.

Progression in legislation and an evolving perspective on the benefits of hemp now allow companies to have the chance to supply sustainable products. Consumers of every market will soon be able to opt for eco-friendly options in their lives. Whether they are clothing, housing or goods, choosing industrial hemp products helps to break pre-existing stigmas while showing kindness to the planet.

The active sports industry proves to be no stranger to industrial hemp as some skateboard companies have decided to incorporate the crop into the production of skate gear such as wheels, decks and whole boards. Check out some of the brilliant franchises embarking on the exciting journey toward a sustainable future through hemp.

Granny Smith Sports

Granny Smith Sports grew from the minds of Nick Griffith, David Blanchard and Greg Osusky in San Diego, California. Together, the three partners agreed on developing skate wear in such a way that would integrate sustainability and durability.

“We don’t have to sacrifice the environment to enjoy the best performance” they share on the Granny Smith Sports website. “Just because the standard is there doesn’t mean there’s not a more eco-friendly and sustainable way.”

Designing boards made with hemp has several advantages. Not only is the plant easy to replenish, taking only six months to grow and mature, cultivating hemp involves no deforestation. With an anti-plastic mindset, Granny Smith Sports provides skateboards and aids in the preservation of our oceans. The composition of the Sprout Cruiser for instance is 80 percent hemp and 20 percent plant resin. Consumers can rest assured that they are investing in a board that is 100 percent plant-based.

“We at Granny Smith take pride in our hands-on process of crafting quality with sustainability” they explain. “It IS possible to have real durability with a plant-based product.” The company proudly crafts its skatewear to follow a plant-based lifestyle and to make a more positive impact on the environment.

Vibronic Hemp Wheels

How does one make a 100 percent plant-based skateboard more eco-friendly? Roll in a set of plant-based wheels for a completely sustainable ride! Vibronic Hemp Wheels proves that hemp can be incorporated into practically any product. What began as a family business in 1953 evolved into the current Rubber-Tech Inc., a company in the rubber industry. With roots from this family company, Vibronic Hemp Wheels blossomed into an innovative brand that sought to create a new way of going down the halfpipe. As a division of Rubber-Tech Inc., the founders of Vibronic Hemp Wheels set forth to bring a “unique product” to the sports market.

Vibronic Hemp Wheels often makes custom-made wheel designs and aims to be a leader in advanced and sustainable development. Manufactured in the United States, the wheels give back to both the Earth and the economy.

“I formed HEMPZOO to give sustainable options to people that care about our planet and children’s future.”

HEMPZOO

Although HEMPZOO is only a little over a year old, having officially launched on April 20, 2017, the company has made great strides by partnering with like-minded businesses to bring consumers planet-friendly products.

HEMPZOO Founder Jasen Russell has been involved in the cannabis industry for more than a decade. After the loss of his brother in 2006 Russell took it upon himself to fully commit to the budding industry, later leading him to begin HEMPZOO. Like many other eco-friendly entrepreneurs, Russell hoped to create an alternative option that would be more conscious of the environment.

“I formed HEMPZOO to give sustainable options to people that care about our planet and children’s future,” he explained. Looking to collaborate with like-minded companies, Russell partnered with other franchises including Granny Smith Sports.

“We collaborate making custom eco hemp skateboards for big and small businesses or individuals looking for a unique Earth-friendly product. I work with many companies and supply hemp materials to make my custom products.”

On the official HEMPZOO website, shoppers will find Granny Smith Sports boards, Vibronic Hemp Wheels and hemp-made protective gear. Among the variety of hemp merchandise are knee and elbow pads featuring canvas that is composed entirely of hemp. The pads are custom made in the United States and have proven durability.