In the past ten years, ramp surfacing has become an essential material in the construction of skate ramps for home use and skateparks. Years ago all we had for choices were painted plywood (that always splintered and flaked away), masonite (which was dusty, slippery and wouldn't last long outdoors) or steel sheeting (hard to work with, intimidating and unforgiving - just ask my dentist).
These days there are more choices available for skaters and bikers that are looking for a fast, durable, dust free surface for their ramp that they won't have to replace twice a year and constantly fight with. Yes these surfaces are more expensive than the old choices. They are also not available at the local lumber store. But they are good surfaces that you'll see throughout the world on backyard halfpipes, small town skateparks and X-Game style competition ramps.