You may have tried skateboarding at least once, and now you decide to do it more. However, you don’t own a skateboard, so you plan to get one. With many specifications you need to consider, one of the things you’ll ask first is, “what size skateboard should I get?”.
Skateboard sizes depend on several factors, like your body measurement and the type of ride. Hence, let me show you a detailed explanation of each aspect and help you pick the best skateboard size for yourself.
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Skateboard Size I Should Get
The best way to pick the perfect skateboard size is by checking on a per-part basis. Note that skateboard dimensions are not proportionate to each other. Hence, you need to list down the measurements of each part that suits you best.
1. Skateboard length
Skateboard lengths do not vary as much as the width, and unless you’re an advanced skater, length is not a crucial consideration. Skateboards have a length ranging from 28″ to 32″. It won’t cause much difference riding one board that’s 4″ smaller or bigger. However, most adults use a 32-inch skateboard because of their body weight and size.
2. Deck width
Four factors are relevant to selecting the perfect deck width, which are your age, height, shoe size, and riding style.
Let’s begin with your age. If your age is somewhere around 8y/o or younger, a 7-inch deck width is enough. For children 9-12y/o, it’s ideal to have a skateboard width of 7.5″. And those at 13y/o and above can have a deck width of anything higher than 7.5″.
The second factor in selecting deck width is your height. Your stance and posture on the board can be dependent on this aspect matched with the deck width. 7-inch decks are perfect for people with a maximum height of 4’4. Those who stand 4’5 to 5’2 are good with decks around 7.5″. Lastly, those who stand taller than 5’2 can have any deck wider than 7.5″.
One more factor you need to consider is your shoe size. The rule of thumb is: the bigger your shoe size is, the broader your deck should be. Shoe sizes of 5 and below are good with 7″ boards. Those with sizes ranging from 6 to 8 can have a 7.5-inch board deck. And people whose shoes go around size 9 and higher should choose a deck width bigger than 7.5″.
Lastly, there is a perfect deck width for every riding style. If you are an adult or you’re into doing technical tricks, a skateboard deck size of 8″ or lower is better for maneuverability. A slightly bigger deck at 8.25″ would be perfect for skate parks, ramps, and rails. But if you are into chill rides or cruising, you can have a deck size higher than 8.25″.
3. Wheelbase
Many users do not give much attention to this aspect, but the wheelbase of a skateboard is also relevant to its performance. The wheelbase is the distance between the inner truck bolts of a skateboard. On average, these skateboard points have a gap of between 13″ to 15″.
A longer wheelbase increases stability and turning radius. On the other side, a shorter wheelbase feels less stable but has a sharper turning radius and quicker response.
Check What Other Sources Tell You.
Sometimes, it’s not enough to refer to a skateboard size chart alone when selecting your skateboard. Other qualitative factors can also affect the skateboard’s performance.
1. Concavity
This skateboard feature is what you see when you look from either the nose or tail of the skateboard. There are three types of concavity of skateboard decks: mellow, medium, and steep concave.
Mellow decks are perfect when you stand motionless on the skateboard. This deck mold makes you stable and more comfortable on the deck. It’s also the flattest among the three boards. However, it may be hard to perform tricks using this shape.
They call medium decks standard boards because they are ideal for beginners and most intermediate skateboarders. You can always rely on this one when you don’t know which shape to choose.
Coming with raised edges, steep concave decks are the best fit for doing tricks. Doing ollies and flips feels better with this board. Here’s a video to give you a more detailed comparison of these three deck shapes.
2. Deck composition
Another aspect that affects your stability on the board is its deck composition. Most skateboard decks come with Maple wood as their primary material. Manufacturers glue veneer sheets of these materials, but not all brands fix the same number of layers.
Bamboos, sometimes coupled with fiberglass, are also popular with skateboards. These materials are stronger, lighter, and long-lasting. Plus, decks like this can pop better than regular maple decks because of their spring-like characteristics.
Conclusion
Choosing your first skateboard is as exciting as getting yourself new clothes and gadgets. Before buying one, remember the first question you need to ask yourself, “what size skateboard should I get?” Next, always consider the following aspects:
- Style
- Comfort
- Suitability
Applying these tips will not only make you pick the right skateboard but will also make every penny you spend worth it. How do you find this article? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
I am Michael, and I have been enjoying this fun sport for seven years. And nothing is better than having a community to share our passion for those thrilling tricks. I am ready to tell you all I know about skateboarding, showing you how to choose a good board and trick to start and how the practice goes. Stay tuned!