Abstract: The present invention provides improved boards and board materials for use in various sports and leisure context. In particular embodiments of the present invention, the boards are well suited for use in skateboards. The board may be provided with varying numbers of layers of material as well as include various edges and protective guards that are placed on the board. Additionally, the protective edges and guards are integrated in novel techniques, which prevent such guards falling off the board during use. Additionally, the board used in a deck assembly of a skateboard (or other board) is comprised of a novel construction of a lightweight yet rigid material in combination with an even lighter material. Different materials may be substituted in and out of the board in order to adjust the physical characteristics of the board.