[2023] How do I know what size skateboard to get?

Are you ready to take your skateboarding skills to the next level? One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right skateboard size. But with so many options out there, how do you know what size skateboard to get? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll provide expert advice and insider tips to help you find the perfect skateboard size for your needs.

Table of Contents

• Quick Answer
• Quick Tips and Facts
• Background
• Riding Style
• Body Height & Weight
• Shoe Size
• Board Length
• Wheel Size
• What The Team Rocks
• FAQ
• Conclusion
• Recommended Links
• Reference Links

Quick Answer

The right skateboard size depends on several factors, including your riding style, body height & weight, shoe size, board length, and wheel size. It’s important to find the perfect balance between stability and maneuverability. Here are some general guidelines to help you get started:

• For flip tricks and street freestyle, narrower boards (under 8 inches wide) are recommended.
• For vert, parks, and pools, slightly wider boards are recommended.
• Consider your body height & weight when choosing a board size. Taller adults should skate a full-size board, while smaller individuals should skate a smaller board.
• Shoe size is an important factor in choosing the proper board width. A good fit between your foot and the board is necessary for turning, ollieing, and doing technical tricks.
• Board length is also important for technical skaters and those who skate transition or bowl. The length should be proportional to the width of the board.
• Wheel size is another consideration, but we’ll cover that in more detail later.

Remember, these are just general guidelines, and personal preference plays a big role in choosing the right skateboard size. Now, let’s dive deeper into each factor to help you make an informed decision.

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, here are some quick tips and facts to keep in mind:

• Try before you buy: If possible, try out different skateboard sizes before making a purchase. This will give you a better feel for what works best for you.
• Consider your skill level: Beginners may find it easier to start with a slightly wider and more stable board, while advanced skaters may prefer a narrower and more maneuverable board.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment: Skateboarding is all about self-expression and finding your own style. Don’t be afraid to try different sizes and shapes to see what feels right for you.

Now, let’s explore each factor in more detail.

Background

Understanding the background and history of skateboard sizing can provide valuable insights into the evolution of skateboard design. In the early days of skateboarding, most boards were around 7 to 8 inches wide. However, as skateboarding progressed and different styles emerged, skateboard sizes started to vary.

Today, skateboard sizes range from around 7 inches to over 9 inches in width. The width of the board plays a crucial role in stability, maneuverability, and overall performance. Finding the right size for your needs will greatly enhance your skateboarding experience.

Riding Style

Your riding style is a key factor in determining the right skateboard size. Different styles require different board widths to optimize performance and maneuverability. Here are some general recommendations based on riding style:

• Flip tricks and street freestyle: If you’re into flip tricks and technical street skating, a narrower board (under 8 inches wide) will provide better control and responsiveness. This allows for quick flicks and precise foot placement.

• Vert, parks, and pools: If you’re more into transition skating, such as vert ramps, skateparks, and pools, slightly wider boards are recommended. A wider board (8 inches or wider) offers more stability and a larger platform for landing big tricks.

Remember, these are just general recommendations, and personal preference plays a big role. Some skaters may prefer a wider board for flip tricks, while others may enjoy a narrower board for transition skating. It’s all about finding what works best for you.

Body Height & Weight

Your body height and weight should also be taken into consideration when choosing a skateboard size. Taller and heavier individuals generally require a larger board for stability and proper weight distribution. On the other hand, smaller individuals may find it easier to maneuver a smaller board.

Here are some general guidelines based on body height and weight:

• Taller adults: If you’re a taller adult, it’s recommended to skate a full-size board (8 inches or wider) to ensure stability and comfort.

• Smaller individuals: If you’re on the smaller side, a smaller board (7.5 to 8 inches wide) may be more suitable for maneuverability and control.

Again, these are general guidelines, and personal preference plays a big role. Some taller individuals may prefer a narrower board for technical tricks, while some smaller individuals may enjoy a wider board for stability. Experimentation is key to finding the perfect fit.

Shoe Size

Your shoe size is an important factor in choosing the proper board width. A good fit between your foot and the board is necessary for turning, ollieing, and doing technical tricks. Here are some general recommendations based on shoe size:

• Smaller shoe size: If you have a smaller shoe size (around US 7 or below), a narrower board (7.5 to 8 inches wide) will provide better control and responsiveness.

• Larger shoe size: If you have a larger shoe size (around US 9 or above), a wider board (8 inches or wider) will offer more stability and a larger platform for your feet.

Remember, these are general recommendations, and personal preference plays a big role. Some skaters with larger shoe sizes may prefer a narrower board for technical tricks, while some skaters with smaller shoe sizes may enjoy a wider board for stability. It’s all about finding the right balance between comfort and performance.

Board Length

While board width is the primary consideration when choosing a skateboard size, board length also plays a role, especially for technical skaters and those who skate transition or bowl. The length of the board should be proportional to the width to ensure proper weight distribution and maneuverability.

Here are some general guidelines for board length based on width:

• 7.5 to 8 inches wide: For boards in this width range, a length of around 31 to 32 inches is recommended.

• 8 to 8.5 inches wide: For boards in this width range, a length of around 32 to 33 inches is recommended.

• 8.5 inches and up: For wider boards, a length of around 33 inches or more is recommended.

Again, these are general guidelines, and personal preference plays a big role. Some skaters may prefer a shorter board for technical tricks, while others may enjoy a longer board for stability. Experimentation is key to finding the perfect fit.

Wheel Size

While wheel size is not directly related to skateboard size, it’s worth mentioning as it can affect the overall performance and ride feel. Wheel size is measured in millimeters (mm) and can vary from around 50mm to over 60mm.

Here are some general recommendations for wheel size based on riding style:

• Street skating: For street skating and technical tricks, smaller wheels (50mm to 54mm) are recommended. Smaller wheels offer better maneuverability and responsiveness.

• Transition skating: For transition skating, such as vert ramps and bowls, larger wheels (54mm to 60mm or more) are recommended. Larger wheels provide more speed and stability on rough surfaces.

Again, personal preference plays a big role in choosing the right wheel size. Some skaters may prefer larger wheels for street skating, while others may enjoy smaller wheels for transition skating. It’s all about finding what works best for your style and terrain.

What The Team Rocks

Looking at what the pros ride can provide valuable insights and inspiration when choosing the right skateboard size. Different skateboard brands have their own team riders who showcase their skills on various board sizes. Checking out what the team rocks can give you an idea of what works well for different riding styles and terrain.

At Skateboard Brands™, our team riders have diverse preferences when it comes to skateboard sizes. From narrow boards for technical street skating to wider boards for transition and big tricks, our team riders cover it all. Check out our Skateboard Brand Guides for more information on what the team rocks and their favorite skateboard setups.

FAQ

How do you know what size skateboard is right for you?

Choosing the right skateboard size is a personal decision that depends on several factors, including your riding style, body height & weight, shoe size, board length, and wheel size. It’s important to find the perfect balance between stability and maneuverability. Experimentation and trying out different sizes are key to finding the right fit for you.

Is an 8.5 deck too big?

An 8.5 deck is considered a wider board and is great for skaters who prefer stability and a larger platform for their feet. It’s commonly used for transition skating, bigger street tricks, pools, or cruising. However, the right board size ultimately depends on your personal preference and riding style. If you feel comfortable and in control on an 8.5 deck, then it’s not too big for you.

Read more about “… What Size Board Did Tony Hawk Use? The Ultimate Guide”

How do I choose a skateboard for beginners?

For beginners, it’s generally recommended to start with a slightly wider and more stable board. A board in the range of 7.5 to 8 inches wide is a good starting point. This width provides a balance between stability and maneuverability, making it easier to learn the basics and progress your skills. As you gain more experience and develop your riding style, you can experiment with different sizes to find what works best for you.

Read more about “… The Ultimate Guide to World Industries: Skateboarding’s Coolest Brand”

What size skateboard should a girl get?

The right skateboard size for a girl depends on her personal preference, riding style, body height & weight, shoe size, and skill level. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Girls can choose from a wide range of skateboard sizes, just like boys. It’s important to consider all the factors mentioned in this article and find the perfect fit for your needs.

Read more about “… Skateboard for Girl Beginners: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Board”

Conclusion

Choosing the right skateboard size is crucial for optimal performance and enjoyment. By considering factors such as riding style, body height & weight, shoe size, board length, and wheel size, you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Remember, personal preference plays a big role, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try different sizes.

At Skateboard Brands™, we recommend trying out different skateboard sizes to see what feels right for you. Our team riders have diverse preferences, and their favorite setups can provide inspiration and guidance. Check out our Skateboard Brand Guides for more information on what the team rocks and their favorite skateboard setups.

For further reading, check out our related articles on Skateboard Brands™:

• Skateboard Gear
• Skateboard Fashion
• Skateboard Culture

And if you’re looking for a specific skateboard, be sure to check out our recommended links below for the best prices and deals.

Recommended Links

• CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy
• Shop Skateboard Brands™ on: Skateboard Brands™ Official Website

Reference Links

• Autonomy Skateboards – How To Pick The Right Skateboard Size
• Skateboard Brands™ – Skateboard Brand Guides
• Skateboard Brands™ – Skateboard Gear
• Skateboard Brands™ – Skateboard Fashion
• Skateboard Brands™ – Skateboard Culture

Now that you have all the information you need, go out there and find the perfect skateboard size for you. Happy shredding!