Ever watched a skateboarder effortlessly land a trick and thought, “Maybe I could do that too?” Well, guess what? You totally can! Skateboarding is an awesome way to express yourself, explore your city, and have a ton of fun. But before you hit the pavement, there’s one crucial step: finding the right size skateboard.
Just like shoes, skateboards come in all shapes and sizes. The perfect board for your best friend might not be the perfect board for you, and that’s okay! This guide will introduce you to the world of skateboard size charts and help you find the ideal fit for your shredding style. So, grab your helmet, buckle up, and let’s get rolling!
Understanding Deck Width: The Big Kahuna of Skateboard Size
We mentioned finding the “right size” skateboard, but what exactly does that mean? When it comes to skateboards, the most important size factor is the deck width. This refers to the width of the wooden plank you stand on. The deck width significantly impacts how your board feels, how easy it is to maneuver, and what kind of skating you’ll excel at.
Think of it like this: a wider deck is like a bigger, more stable platform, while a narrower deck is lighter and easier to flip for tricks. Let’s break it down further:
- Wider Decks (8.0″ and up): These bad boys offer superior stability, making them ideal for vert skating (think ramps and bowls) and cruising around town. They also provide more foot space for comfort, especially for taller riders or those with bigger shoes.
- Mid-Range Decks (7.75″ – 8.0″): This is a versatile option, perfect for beginners who are still figuring out their skating style. It offers a good balance between stability and maneuverability, making it suitable for both street skating and light cruising.
- Narrower Decks (7.5″ and below): These decks are all about flicking and catching tricks. They’re lighter and easier to control in the air, making them a favorite among street skaters who love technical maneuvers. However, the trade-off is less stability, which can be challenging for beginners.
Remember, this is just a general overview. There’s no hard and fast rule – some skaters shred on wider decks for street skating, and some love the stability of a wider board for cruising. We’ll delve deeper into personal preference in a bit, but first, let’s explore a handy tool to get you started: the skateboard size chart!
Navigating the Skateboard Size Chart: Your Personalized Roadmap
Now that you understand the importance of deck width, let’s put that knowledge to good use! Here’s a breakdown of a typical skateboard size chart:
| Deck Width (inches) | Height/Weight Range | Shoe Size Range | Suggested Riding Styles |
| 7.0″ – 7.5″ | Below 5’2″ | Men’s 5.5 – 7.5 | Street Skating (Technical Tricks) |
| 7.5″ – 8.0″ | 5’2″ – 5’7″ | Men’s 8 – 10 | Street Skating, Light Cruising |
| 8.0″ – 8.5″ | 5’3″ and above | Men’s 9.5 and above | All-around (Street, Transition, Cruising) |
| 8.5″ and above | Taller riders | Larger shoe sizes | Transition Skating (Ramps, Bowls), Cruising |
Important Note: This chart is a starting point, not a set of rules. Here’s why:
- Personal Preference is King (or Queen): Maybe you’re a tall person who loves street skating and prefers the stability of a wider deck. Or maybe you have small feet and enjoy the control of a narrower board for cruising. Ultimately, the best size is the one that feels most comfortable and allows you to progress in your skating style.
- Body Type Matters (But Not Everything): While height and weight can influence your choice, they’re not the only factors. Consider your experience level and riding style too. A lighter rider might rock a wider deck for comfort, while a heavier rider might prefer a narrower board for maneuverability.
Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll explore these factors in more detail and provide some additional tips to help you find your perfect skateboard size!
Choosing Your Perfect Skateboard Size: Beyond the Chart
The skateboard size chart is a great starting point, but as we mentioned, it’s not the only factor to consider. Here’s how to personalize your board selection based on your unique needs:
- Riding Style: This is the big one! Here’s a breakdown for common styles:
- Street Skating (Technical Tricks): Focus on narrower decks (7.5″ and below) for easier flips and board control. They’re lighter and more responsive for those sick grinds and ollies.
- Transition Skating (Ramps, Bowls): Wider decks (8.0″ and above) offer more stability when carving lines and tackling drops. The extra foot space helps you maintain balance and control in the bowl.
- Cruising: Wider decks (8.0″ and above) provide a comfortable platform for cruising around town. You’ll have more space to plant your feet and enjoy the ride.
- Body Height & Weight: Here’s a general guideline, but remember, comfort and preference play a role:
- Taller/Heavier Riders: Wider decks (8.0″ and above) offer more stability and support your weight for better control.
- Shorter/Lighter Riders: Narrower decks (7.5″ and below) can feel less cumbersome and easier to maneuver.
- Shoe Size: Wider shoes benefit from a wider deck for proper foot placement and stability.
Bonus Tip: If you’re a beginner, a mid-range deck (7.75″ – 8.0″) is a versatile option. It allows you to explore different styles without feeling limited.
Pro Tip: Whenever possible, visit your local skate shop! They have a wealth of knowledge and can let you try out different board sizes to find the perfect fit. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and get advice from experienced skaters.
Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect skateboard size! Remember, skateboarding is all about having fun and expressing yourself. So, grab your board, hit the pavement, and shred with confidence!
Conclusion: It’s All About the Shred, Not Just the Size
Finding the right skateboard size is an important step in your skateboarding journey, but it’s not the only piece of the puzzle. Remember, the most important factor is having fun and feeling comfortable on your board. As you progress, your preferences might evolve, and that’s totally okay! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sizes and styles to discover what works best for you.
Shred-worthy FAQs: All About Skateboard Size Charts
1. What’s the most popular skateboard size?
The 7.5″ – 8.0″ deck width range is a popular choice for its versatility. It caters to both street skating and light cruising, making it a great option for beginners who are still exploring their style.
2. Is a bigger skateboard better for beginners?
Not necessarily! While wider decks (8.0″ and above) offer more stability, narrower decks (7.5″ and below) can be easier to maneuver and control. It really depends on your riding style preference.
3. I wear size 10 shoes. What size skateboard should I get?
Wider shoes benefit from a wider deck for better foot placement. Consider a deck in the 8.0″ and above range for optimal comfort and control.
4. Can I use a skateboard size chart for longboards?
Skateboard size charts typically focus on regular skateboards (around 31-32 inches long). Longboards have different size considerations and often range from 33 to 50+ inches in length.
5. Where can I try out different skateboard sizes?
Many local skate shops allow you to test out different board sizes before you buy. This is a great way to find the perfect fit for your comfort and riding style.
