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Cliché Decks Review

Cliché Skateboards deck bottom graphic showing artwork and design

⭐ ~4.4/5 – Cliché Skateboards was a well-known European skateboard brand founded in 1997 in Lyon, France. The company became notable for sponsoring European riders and releasing video projects, but the original brand was discontinued as an active line in 2016 under its distributor (Dwindle). Despite that, decks bearing the Cliché name and reissues can still be found through distributors and retailers; modern product pages describe decks made with contemporary manufacturing methods (resin/epoxy hybrid, single-press) and standard 7-ply constructions.

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Check out Cliche Skateboard decks on Amazon!
Construction & materials:

Ply / wood:
Cliché Skateboards typically use 7-ply wood construction, combining birch and North American maple veneers. This blend provides a balance of strength, flexibility, and pop, making the decks durable while maintaining good board feel for tricks and street skating.

Glue / press:
The plies are bonded using high-quality epoxy resin glue and pressed in a single-deck mold. This method ensures the layers fuse securely and creates consistent concave and shape across every deck, resulting in a durable, reliable skateboard that performs predictably.

Manufacture: Cliché Skateboards was originally a French company founded in 1997, later acquired by a major skateboard distributor. After acquisition, the decks were manufactured using the same high standards as other well-known skateboard brands, produced in established woodshops. The decks were cut, shaped, sanded, and drilled before being finished with graphics and protective coatings.

Takeaway: Cliché Skateboards are known for classic, dependable construction suitable for street and park skating. With their 7-ply birch/maple decks, epoxy resin bonding, and precision pressing, they offer consistent performance and durability. While the brand has been discontinued, Cliché remains respected for producing high-quality decks that cater to skaters seeking reliable, all-around skateboard performance.
Ride characteristics (pop, concave, durability):

Pop: Cliché decks offer strong and consistent pop, thanks to their 7-ply birch/maple construction and epoxy resin bonding. It feels strong from the first try and stays good and comfortable for months.

Concave / shape: Cliché skateboards feature a medium to standard concave which is one of my favorite feels for a skateboard that balances control and comfort. The deck shapes are classic popsicle-style, suitable for both street and park skating, providing stability for tricks while remaining responsive.

Choose by model: e.g., “Classic” (medium), “Cut Off” (high concave), shaped pools/old school models for wider stance.

Durability: The combination of 7-ply wood, epoxy bonding, and high-pressure single-deck pressing gives Cliché decks excellent durability. They resist warping, cracking, and chipping under regular skateboarding conditions, making them a very dependable choice for daily use.

Takeaway: Expect dependable pop and reasonable longevity (3 months)
Particularly good for skaters who want performance without boutique pricing.

Designed for all-around performance, offering consistent pop, reliable concave, and long-lasting durability. Their decks are ideal for skaters seeking dependable, well-balanced boards suitable for street and park skating.
Sizing & fit:

Cliché decks range from 7.5″ to 8.5″ wide, with lengths around 31.5″–31.9″. Narrower boards suit technical tricks and smaller riders, mid-range widths are versatile for street and park, and wider decks offer extra stability for transition or larger riders.

Graphics, finish & availability:

Decks feature bold logos, illustrative artwork, and team rider designs, finished with protective lacquer or clear coats. While the brand is discontinued, decks and complete boards are still available through skate shops, online retailers, and reissues.
Cliché Skateboards deck close-up showing bottom graphic detail
Price & value:

Cliché decks typically range from €30–€50, making them an affordable mid-range option with reliable construction and classic graphics. Complete skateboards are usually priced around €55–€75, offering good value for beginners and intermediate skaters seeking a ready-to-ride setup with quality components. Overall, Cliché provides dependable performance and durability at a reasonable price compared to similar skateboard brands.
How Cliche compares to other brands:

Cliché Skateboards occupies a mid-range position in the skateboarding market. With 7-ply maple construction and reliable pop, the decks offer solid performance and durability for street and park skating.

Compared to premium brands like Plan B or Zero, Cliché is less focused on advanced materials or pro-level innovations, but it remains more dependable and better made than entry-level or generic boards. Its distinct European heritage and graphics give it cultural appeal and personality that sets it apart from mainstream U.S. brands.

Overall, Cliché is a solid, reliable option for skaters seeking consistent performance, good value, and a board with character, without the premium price tag of top-tier brands.
Pros ✅Cons ❌
Reliable Construction:
7-ply birch/maple decks provide consistent pop and durability.		Less Innovative:
Lacks advanced materials or tech found in premium boards.
Solid Mid-Range Value:
Affordable pricing with dependable performance.		Moderate Pop Compared to Elite Boards:
Experienced skaters may prefer higher-end decks for extra responsiveness.
Versatile Deck Shapes:
Classic popsicle concave works for street, park, and general skating.		Discontinued Brand:
Limited new production may affect long-term availability.
Distinct European Heritage:
Unique graphics and rider-driven aesthetic set it apart from mainstream brands.		Graphics Limited by Stock:
Fewer design options than active brands with ongoing releases.
Availability of Reissues and Completes:
Even though discontinued, boards are still accessible through skate shops and online retailers.		Not Pro-Level Focused:
Designed for mid-range performance rather than professional or specialized skating.
Final Verdict

Cliché Skateboards offer a perfect balance of reliability, style, and value. Their 7-ply birch/maple decks deliver consistent pop and durable performance, while the classic concave shapes make them versatile for street, park, and general skating. With unique European graphics and a rich heritage, Cliché stands out culturally, even as a discontinued brand.

While they may lack the cutting-edge innovations of premium boards, Cliché decks remain an excellent choice for beginners, intermediate skaters, or anyone seeking a dependable, all-around skateboard with personality.

Affordable, solid, and stylish, they deliver a skateboarding experience that’s trustworthy without breaking the bank—a true mid-range champion in the world of skate decks!