Reading over the forum here i feel that i can throw my two cents in as a longboarder with clear grip tape, that it is only clear in the sense that color shows through. It is much like the type of glass that is used for a screen in showers or architecturally to provide privacy without sacrificing a light barrier. So a wood grain will not be visible, just the tone of the wood. Additionally clear grip tape shows wear much more than black due to the contrast of the clear tape and the foreign material buildup ( i.e.: dirt, spilled coffee, paint, or blood). I hope that helps people formulate their designs.