Skateboard: What size should you choose?

Choosing the right skateboard size is essential for comfort, stability, and progression. A board that is too small or too large can make skating less enjoyable and may even hinder learning the basics. In this article, we review the key factors to consider when selecting the size of your skateboard, whether you are a beginner or an experienced skater.

1 – DECK WIDTH: THE MAIN CRITERION

The width of the skateboard (measured in inches) is the most important factor. It directly affects:

• Stability

• Maneuverability

• Ease of performing tricks

• Comfort under your feet

  
  

Most common skateboard widths

Skateboard widths	Typical use
7.5" – 7.75"	Children
7.75" – 8.0"	Technical street skating
8.0" – 8.25"	All-around (street/park)
8.25" – 8.5"	Skatepark, bowl
8.5" et +	Cruising, pool, old school

Today, the majority of adult skaters use a board between 8.0" and 8.5".

2 – CHOOSING THE SKATEBOARD SIZE BASED ON SHOE SIZE

Shoe size can serve as a useful guideline, especially for beginners. It helps prevent choosing a board that is too narrow or uncomfortable.

Shoe size (EU)	Recommended width
< 38	7.5" – 7.75"
38 – 41	7.75" – 8.0"
42 – 43	8.0" – 8.25"
44 – 46	8.25" – 8.5"

Note that these guidelines are approximate: your skating style remains a determining factor.

3 – SKATEBOARD SIZE BASED ON SKATING STYLE

Street

• Focused on tricks and flat ground

• Narrower, lighter boards

• Recommended width: 7.75" to 8.25"

Skatepark / Bowl

• Higher speeds and sharper curves

• Stability is key

• Recommended width: 8.25" to 8.5"

Cruising / Commuting

• Comfort and stability are priorities

• Wider decks

• Recommended width: 8.5" and above

4 – WHAT ABOUT SKATEBOARD LENGTH ?

The deck length plays a secondary but still important role:

• Standard adult lengths are between 31" and 32"

• Longer boards provide more stability

• Shorter boards are more maneuverable

Length is often linked to the wheelbase (distance between the trucks), which affects turning radius and stability

5 – WHAT SIZE SKATEBOARD FOR A CHILD ?

For children, it is recommended to choose:

• Narrower decks (7.25" to 7.75")

• A length suited to their height

• A lightweight setup to make learning easier

  
  

A skateboard that is too large can make progression more difficult.

CONCLUSION

To choose the right skateboard size:

• Deck width is the main criterion

• Shoe size can help refine the choice

• Skating style is a determining factor

• Length and wheelbase affect stability

  
  

A properly sized board ensures more comfortable skating and better progression, regardless of skill level.