This is perhaps the most asked question I’ve seen on forums related to skateboarding. Yes, there are different sizes available, and when I get asked about this, I always come back to the end result of “it’s your personal preference.”
Well, not really helpful, is it? People still ask me what size board do I ride? What if my board was bigger? What if my board was smaller and this and that…To be honest, if you like a bigger board then skate a bigger board.
Now, a lot of folks aren’t satisfied with this answer. And for those of you, this skateboard size chart should help answer that common question that everybody buying a new board asks. And that is “what size of skateboard should I get?”
I know this topic is important because when it comes to skateboarding, size matters a lot. You can’t fully enjoy a ride if the board size doesn’t suit you. Getting a bigger board than necessary means you won’t be able to perform some tricks that you would be able to with a smaller board.
What Size of Skateboard Should I Get?
Most skateboards are similar in length, so width is used to choose a size. They range in width from 6.5 inches to 10.5 inches. But most boards you will see are between 7.5 inches to 9.5 inches. The deck size plays an important role because this is what gives a rider the ability to control the board.
The basic rule of thumb is to start with a skateboard that has the width proportional to your shoe size.
Mini skateboards range from 6.5 inches to 7.5 inches and are ideal for young riders that wear men’s shoe size ranging from 4 to 6.5.
However, don’t automatically assume that because you’re a certain shoe size, you should buy a certain size board. It has nothing to do with anything like that; it’s just personal preference.
Usually, if you are just practicing flip tricks, flat bars, ledges, and other technical tricks, you should choose a board on the narrower side of the spectrum. For skaters that prefer jumping over big gaps or skate handrails, big bowls and stairs, they are more comfortable using larger boards. Here is a pro tip for you, don’t be afraid to try out different sizes. That way, you will be able to find out what works for you the best. As I’ve said before, it’s all about personal preference.
If you are just starting out, choose a wider board as you will have better stability and better control. You can curve easily on a wider board compared to a narrow one. For performing tricks and quick turns, narrow decks are better, and they are lighter in nature. You will lose stability, but you will gain better control once you have mastered narrow skateboards. The proper selection of skateboard is vital here.
Skateboard Size Chart
The most important aspect of any skateboard deck is the size. You want to find the best size and shape that suits your riding style. While choosing a deck, there are three important factors to consider.
- Shoe size
- Bodyweight and height
- Riding style
Let’s talk about shoe size first. You don’t want a board that is too narrow or too wide. Doing technical tricks, ollieing, and turning requires a good fit combination between the board and the foot. Follow this skateboard size chart if you want a board that will work well with your body size.
The recommended board size for a person that is 5 ft 6-inch or taller is 8 to 8.5 inches.
The recommended board size for a person that is 4ft 6-inch to 5ft 6-inch is 7.75 to 8 inches.
The recommended board size for a person that is 4ft 6-inch or shorter is 7.25 to 7.75 inches.
Riding style and the terrain are also important when you are buying a skateboard for the first time. If you want more surface area and stability under your feet, choose a slightly wider skateboard.
A lighter weight setup is convenient if you want to do flip tricks. For street skating, you might want to buy a narrower board.
Narrow decks that are between 7 to 7.5 inches are ideal for youth riders. Decks between 7.5 to 8 inches are considered as medium width decks and are suitable for teen and adult riders. Buy them only if you are street skating or want to perform technical tricks. For cruising, you would want a skateboard that has a deck size of 8 inches or higher.
Trucks Size
In addition to deck size, you can also choose what size of trucks you will need. Trucks are forged out of steel and allow for pivoting and turning on the axle. The truck is comprised of an axle, a hanger, a kingpin, a baseplate, bushings, washers, and nuts.
There are different truck heights like low, mid, and high. What height you choose will depend on what style of skating you prefer.
Low truck height is best suited for flip tricks. These go well with a smaller wheelbase and provide extra stability. Because of their lower center of gravity, these boards are good for beginners and are easy to maintain.
Mid truck height is very versatile and is also the most common size for all-around skateboarding. They are ideal for skating in the streets or at a skate park.
High truck height is most suitable for cruising and carving, so better suited to longboards.
Wheel Size
Wheel size will also influence the way your board rides. The diameter of a wheel is measured in millimeters. You will see the size printed on the outer surface. The most common wheel size is between 50 mm and 60 mm, and they are widely used for street and park skating. Larger wheels that are 60 mm or larger are generally used on longboards and cruisers. Wheels less than 54 mm are preferred by technical skaters.
Rounding Up
As you can see, there are many variables that come into choosing a board, and there is no such thing as “the perfect size skateboard”. The best way to determine which skateboard size is right for you is to try out a bunch of different boards and setups. Borrow from your friends or head down to your local skateboard shop. Hopefully, this skateboard size chart guide will help you to find the best skateboard size that suits your riding style.
Finally, enjoy this wonderful clip with Spencer Nuzzi.