How To Choose Your Skateboard Size

Ever asked yourself “What size skateboard should I get?” Well, you’re not alone. Most skaters have asked themselves this question at one point or another. In this article, we break down the main factors to consider when choosing the size of your deck, including width, length and your physical makeup. Read on to find out what size board you need.

Skateboard Deck Size Charts

It might take a while before you discover the right deck size for you. Although there’s no real right or wrong, your personal preference, the type of skating, your shoe size, and your height and weight will all factor into your decision. The chart below serves as a helpful guide based on your measurements.

Some other things to consider are the width and length of your board. Choose a skateboard that’s too narrow or too wide, and you may be unable to do tricks or distribute your weight properly. We delve a bit further into width and length in the sections below.

Skateboard Width

Deck width is a key consideration when choosing a skateboard. As shown in the table above, this can vary from a micro board’s 6.5–6.75 inch width, all the way up to anything over 8.5 inches wide, which falls into the category of a full-size board. If you choose a deck that’s too wide for you, chances are you’ll need to exert more energy in controlling your board, which, in turn, makes pulling off tricks – and just skating in general – more difficult. On the flip side, if you choose a board that’s too narrow for you, you’ll probably have issues balancing, which affects your stability and control of the skateboard. Here are some general guidelines you can follow:

• Narrow decks are an excellent place to start for younger, smaller skaters
• Decks with a smaller to medium width are better suited for street skating and tricks
• Wider decks are the go-to choice for transition or pool skating and cruising

Skateboard Length

Ranging from about 28 inches to 33 inches, most street skateboards have a similar deck length. The slightly shorter ones are ideal for younger skaters, but overall, the length of your skateboard isn’t going to have much impact on your skating – much unlike the width – unless you want to longboard. Check out our article on "How To Choose a Good Skateboard Deck" for more information about the different factors to consider when choosing your board.

The Right Size for Your Skateboarding Style

Those who prefer street skateboarding usually opt for a deck with a smaller width – something between 7. 75 and 8.5 inches, depending on your shoe size – as this size is nimbler and better for controlling the board when performing flip tricks.

For pool, ramp or transition skating, wider decks – 8.25 inches and over – are the way to go, as they provide greater stability when your speed picks up a notch.

For those who are skateboarding mainly for transportation, cruiser completes with softer wheels will get you from point A to point B.

This info is a general guide to help get you started. Don’t be afraid to try different sizes to find what feels right for you. Every skater develops their individual preference and style over time.

If you want to know more about the different skateboard types and shapes, check out our article "Skateboard Types and Shapes".

Related Guides

How To Choose a Skateboard

Skateboard Deck Buying Guide

Different Types and Shapes of Skateboards