Starting with a skateboard deck width appropriate to your shoe size is a good place to start. Start with a deck width of 7.5 to 8.0 inches if you are a men's size 6.5 to 9. We recommend choosing a deck between 8.0 and 8.5 inches if you wear shoes that are 9.5 or bigger. Skateboards are available in many different shapes and sizes, so consider how you plan to use the board before you buy it. If you want to do more than just cruise down the street, you may need to get a wider board.
If you're looking at buying a new skateboard then here are some things to think about: the type of rider you are (if you know what kind you want to be) and what kind of rider others are (if you want to copy them). There are two main types of skateboards: drop-through and flat. Drop-through boards have a lower center of gravity and are better for cruising around because they aren't as likely to kick up into a nose dive. Flat boards are easier to learn on and have less risk of injury since there are no gaps between the wheels and the board.
Next, consider the price range you are willing to spend. There are low-cost skateboards out there, but they tend to be made from poor quality materials that will soon need replacing. If you can afford a little more money then you can look at getting a used board from someone who has bought a new one.
Larger boards (8.25–9.0 inches) are typically more comfortable for those who skate huge bowls, hand rails, or prefer to jump down enormous gaps and steps. They're also suitable for those who like to push themselves harder while they skate.
An 8.0-inch board is perfect for beginners who want to try out different shapes and sizes of wheels and trucks but still need something that's easy to learn on. These boards are available in many different materials including wood, plastic, and carbon fiber, so there's one to fit your budget as well as your style of skating.
An 8.25-inch board is good for advanced skaters who need a larger wheelbase and/or want to try out high-end products. These boards are often made of maple or walnut and come with stronger axles and wheels that are designed for longer lasting performance.
Finally, a 9-inch board is large enough to handle difficult terrain and resist damage from falling off objects. It's also great for those who want to challenge themselves by trying new tricks and learning how to do them safely. These boards are usually made of maple or bamboo and can cost up to $100.
As you gain expertise, you'll discover what size suits you best. We recommend that you choose your deck size based on your shoe size until you reach this stage. This will provide you with a solid starting point. Some factors to consider, especially when deciding between different skateboard deck sizes: cost, material, quality, and personal preference. No matter which size you select, there is a board for everyone!
Decks are the main component of any skateboard. There are many different types of decks available today, from traditional wood to innovative composite materials. Decks can be divided into two general categories: plastic and metal. Plastic decks are popular because they are light and look good. They also don't break as easily as wooden or metal decks. Composite decks are new technology that uses layers of fiberglass and plastic together to create an almost indestructible board. They usually range in price from low-end to high-end boards.
There are multiple ways to determine your skateboard shoe size. The easiest way is to simply measure your foot bed around the midsection where your foot meets the ground. Make sure not to include your toes in this measurement.
Skateboarding Deck Dimensions
Deck Width | Age | Shoe Size (Men’s) |
---|---|---|
7″ or Less | 8 or Younger | 6 or smaller |
7″- 7.5″ | 9 – 12 | 6 – 8 |
7.5″+ | 13+ | 9+ |
Standard deck size for most riders skating streets or performing more technical feats with a shoe size of 11 or below is 7.5" to 8". Riders who use platforms typically have decks that are 6" to 6.5" wide.
For older models or those looking for something smaller, 5" boards are available as well as special edition sizes like 1", 2".
The choice of skateboard width affects how you ride it. If you're used to riding a large truck, a small board will make you feel off balance and cause you to handle aggressively. On the other hand, if you're comfortable on a small board, a larger one will let you skate with more control. There are also hybrid boards which are usually smaller than standard decks but have a thicker wheel base for more stability.
There are many different types of skateboards including classic, longboard, cruiser, street, and scooter. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to know what you want to get out of your board before you buy it.
A classic board is perfect for beginners who still want to learn new tricks and progress in their skating. These boards are usually made of maple or pine and have high-density plastic wheels.
The breadth of the deck is important because you want a board that is simple to handle and balance. If the skateboard width is too broad for you, you will have to use more power and may struggle to do tricks. Balance, on the other hand, becomes a major difficulty if your skateboard width is too tiny for your stature.
The truck system and base plate size are also crucial in determining the board's performance and how much it costs. If you go with a board that is too wide or too small, you will be limited in what you can do.
There are many different types of skateboards out there with varying features and prices. Before you make your choice, here are some things to consider:
Width is one factor in determining how much control you have over the board. A wider board gives you more freedom but also takes longer to maneuver. If you are new to skateboarding, start with a board that is relatively narrow; then as you get better, you can buy a slightly wider board.
If you plan to do lots of jumping, sliding, and flipping over, then a full-sized board is required. These can get very expensive, so if you can't afford one, start with a half-size board and when you learn more about skateboarding, you can buy the full-size version later on.
Half-size boards are usually smaller than average size decks.