What Are The Different Skateboard Deck Sizes?

Despite popular belief, skateboarding is not just any juvenile activity but rather a great way to get your kids out and about!

I still remember when my son asked for his first skateboard; I was hesitant, but the process of putting together his first skateboard brought him and me closer. 

Before I knew it, he was going outside every day to learn new tricks. Of course, I made sure he had his helmet and pads on every time. It was at that point that I realized just how beneficial a physical activity like skateboarding could be. 

Hey everybody! Stacy Smith here to help you understand what are the different skateboard deck sizes, and buy a perfect deck size for yourself or a loved one. I’ll go over the different sizes available as well as the factors to consider when buying a model. 

With that being said, let’s get into it!

How Do I Choose The Right Deck Size?

When I was looking for a deck size with my son, I learned quite a few things. One of them was that the size of the deck could help the rider in different ways. Choosing the right board size can make learning how to control the board and eventually do tricks easier. 

As more experience of riding a skateboard is gained, you may begin to prefer a different skateboard. This was the case with my son, who started with a small board but gradually preferred larger-sized decks. 

When choosing a suitable skateboard, you can base your decision on different factors. Compare these factors to see what the overlapping deck size is. 

1. Based On Build And Height

One of the most essential factors in choosing a suitable deck size is the build of the rider’s body. The most minor variations in the size of the board can make pushing off the ground and riding the board much easier. 

For those who have a more petite build, a smaller board is more maneuverable than a full-sized option. Similarly, a rider with a tall build will find the full-sized deck comfortable to use. Matching the board width to the build of the person will give them the perfect area to have a solid stance. 

A board between 8” and 8.50” is the largest size available - ideal for people who are five feet and six inches or taller. One step below this size is 7.75” to 8” for the height range of four feet and six inches to five feet and six inches. The smallest board size is 7.25” to 7.75” for people that are four feet and six inches and shorter. 

As skateboard decks have a concave surface, even the smallest 0.25” difference makes a huge difference. Not only will the board have a better grip on the shoes, but it will be more comfortable to pull off certain tricks. 

2. Based On Shoe Size

After checking the build and height, the second most crucial factor to consider is the shoe size. This is incredibly important as having enough area to stand on can be the difference between riding safely and falling. 

Turning is the most basic and essential of maneuvers on a skateboard; this is done by shifting your weight to either side of the deck. That’s why having enough area for your shoes to stand on is essential. 

There is no set size between deck size and shoe size as not every shoe has the exact sole dimensions. All you need to keep in mind when testing out deck sizes is the width of the deck in relation to your shoe sole. 

Position your shoes across the board at a slight angle just behind the truck bearing holes. If your shoes can fit entirely on the board with no overhang, it might be too wide of a board for you. On the other hand, if your shoes have a considerable amount of overhang off the edges the board might be too narrow. 

To choose the best width for your shoe size, look for a board where the tip of your shoe’s heel and toes peep over either edge of the board. This gives you better maneuverability when turning or doing tricks while maintaining a solid base. 

3. Riding Style And Terrain

While this factor may not be as important to newcomers, it might come in handy if you are looking for a particular board. Where you plan to ride your board and what you plan to do with it in terms of tricks and riding style can factor into choosing a suitable board. 

Skate parks, pools, and ramps are some popular surfaces used for skating. They go from horizontal to vertical quickly, so these are known as “transition skating” in the skateboard world. Boards suited for this type of skating require more stability and area to stand on. 

On the other end of the spectrum, there’s “street skating,” which is essentially skating on relatively flatter terrain. These boards are typically lighter and narrower (less than eight inches wide). 

Furthermore, skate decks between 7” and 7.50” are a good fit for youth thanks to their slim width. Teens can use a 7.50” to 8” width board for proper grip and handling. This size board is also great for adults who want to try skeet skating. 

Boards that are wider than 8” all the way to 8. 50” can perform well for street and transition skaters. The wider surface area of the board helps skaters on pools, rails, and even stairs. Additionally, if the board is 8.50” or wider, it functions well as a simple cruiser or used for transition skating to perform more complex tricks.

Summing Up