How to Know What Size Skateboard to Get: Beginner’s Guide
The process of choosing the right skateboard size may seem overwhelming at first, but it’s essential for a smooth and safe skateboarding experience. As a beginner, picking the wrong skateboard size can make it harder to maintain balance, perform tricks, or simply enjoy riding. Skateboards come in various sizes, and the one that’s right for you will depend on your height, weight, skill level, and skating style. Understanding these factors will help you avoid common pitfalls and set you on the right path from the start. This guide will walk you through how to know what size skateboard to get, breaking down everything from deck width to rider height and weight guidelines. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your ability to choose the perfect skateboard for your needs, leading to faster progress and more enjoyment on your skateboard.
Why Choosing the Right Skateboard Size Matters
Selecting the correct skateboard size is more than just a matter of comfort—it’s essential for your safety and progress. A board that is too big or too small can cause instability and hinder your ability to perform basic tricks or maneuvers. Beginners often face difficulties if they start with a skateboard that doesn’t match their body type, leading to frustration and slower development of skills. Additionally, an ill-fitting skateboard can make learning new tricks harder and increase the risk of falls or injuries. Choosing the right size ensures that your skateboard is easy to control, allowing you to balance more efficiently and move with greater ease. Ultimately, the right-sized board will help you ride confidently and progress faster. Whether you’re interested in street skating, cruising, or performing tricks, selecting the correct skateboard size plays a pivotal role in shaping your skateboarding journey.
What Factors Determine Skateboard Size?
Several factors determine the ideal skateboard size for an individual. The most important is the width of the skateboard deck, which should match your height, weight, and foot size. A wider deck offers more stability, especially for taller and heavier riders, while a narrower deck provides greater maneuverability for smaller or more experienced skaters. Deck length can also affect performance, but it’s typically more dependent on the rider’s personal preferences and the type of skating they enjoy. Additionally, your shoe size is a good indicator of the appropriate skateboard width: larger feet require a wider deck for stability and control. Riding style is another consideration. Street skaters often prefer narrower boards for tricks, while skaters who focus on ramps or pools may need a wider deck for added stability. By balancing these factors, you can ensure that your skateboard fits your body and enhances your skating experience.
How to Measure Yourself for the Perfect Skateboard Size
Measuring yourself for the right skateboard size requires taking into account your height, weight, skill level, and riding preferences. A properly sized skateboard will provide you with the balance, control, and comfort you need to progress as a skater.
Height and Weight Guidelines
Your height and weight are key indicators of what size skateboard you should get. Riders who are shorter than 5’4″ and weigh less than 125 lbs should choose decks between 7.5” and 7.75” wide. This narrower width offers better control for smaller riders. For those who stand between 5’4″ and 6 feet tall and weigh between 125 lbs and 175 lbs, a medium-sized deck (7.75” to 8.0” wide) is generally a better option. It provides enough width for stability while still being easy to maneuver. Taller riders over 6 feet or weighing more than 175 lbs should opt for wider decks (8.25” and above) to ensure they have the necessary support for their size. These guidelines are critical because an improperly sized skateboard can lead to balance issues, making it harder to control the board and limiting your ability to perform tricks or learn new skills effectively.
Matching Your Skill Level
Your skill level is another important factor when selecting the right skateboard size. If you’re a beginner, choosing a board that offers a balance of stability and maneuverability is key. A skateboard that’s too large can be difficult to control, making it harder to turn and practice tricks. Most beginners should aim for a deck width of around 7.75” to 8.0”, as this provides a solid balance between control and ease of movement. As you gain more experience, you might decide to experiment with different deck sizes based on your skating style. Intermediate and advanced skaters often have a better sense of their preferred size for performing tricks or riding at higher speeds. However, for beginners, sticking with a medium-width skateboard will give you the versatility needed to improve without feeling overwhelmed by a board that’s too big or too small for your skill level.
Riding Style Considerations
Your preferred riding style should also influence your decision when choosing a skateboard size. If you plan to focus on street skating, where tricks like ollies and flips are common, a narrower deck (between 7.5” and 8.0”) will be more suitable. The lighter weight and smaller size of these decks make them easier to flip and control for technical maneuvers. On the other hand, if you enjoy skating in parks or riding ramps, you might benefit from a wider deck (8.25” and above), as it provides more stability when riding at higher speeds or performing aerial tricks. For those who primarily enjoy cruising, a wider, longer deck—such as a longboard—offers a smoother and more comfortable ride. Your style of riding plays a significant role in determining what size skateboard will help you get the most out of your skating experience.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Skateboard Size
Beginners often make several common mistakes when choosing the size of their skateboard. One frequent error is focusing solely on the length of the deck while ignoring the width, which is a more critical measurement for balance and control. Choosing a deck that is too narrow or too wide for your body size can make it harder to ride and perform tricks. Another mistake is selecting a skateboard based purely on aesthetics, such as the graphics or colors, without considering how the size affects performance. Additionally, many beginners choose a board that’s too big, thinking it will be easier to ride. However, oversized boards can be difficult to maneuver, especially for smaller riders. To avoid these mistakes, it’s important to prioritize size over appearance and ensure the skateboard matches your height, weight, and intended style of skating.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size skateboard is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a beginner. The size of the skateboard affects your control, balance, and ability to progress. By taking into account factors like your height, weight, skill level, and riding style, you can find a skateboard that feels comfortable and responsive under your feet. Knowing how to know what size skateboard to get ensures that you’ll be able to ride more confidently, whether you’re learning the basics or advancing to more complex tricks. Remember that deck width is more important than length, and don’t be afraid to try different sizes as you progress in your skating journey. With the right-sized skateboard, you’ll improve your skills faster and have more fun on your skateboard.
FAQ:
How do I know if my skateboard is too big?
If your skateboard feels difficult to control, especially when trying to turn or lift it for tricks, it may be too big. A board that’s too wide for your foot size will also feel awkward, making it harder to balance and perform tricks effectively. Ensure the deck fits comfortably under your feet when standing on it.
Can I ride a smaller skateboard than recommended?
Yes, it is possible to ride a smaller skateboard than the recommended size, but it may not be as stable, especially for beginners. A smaller board is lighter and easier to flip, which can be helpful for technical tricks, but it might feel less stable when cruising or riding ramps. Always ensure you can balance and control it well before fully committing to a smaller board.
Is deck width more important than length when choosing a skateboard?
Yes, deck width is generally more important than length. The width of the deck affects how well you can control the board, and it should match your height, weight, and foot size. Length varies depending on the type of skateboard and the rider’s preferences but is less critical to performance than width.
