(The Origin Skate Deck is an 8” deck, ideal for average to taller skaters. Measures 31.5” x 8”.)
How do you select the proper skateboard size deck? Like picking the correct size shoes, there’s a reason and a method.
Depending on whether you’re out to do tricks, do ramp skating or if you’re picking out a longboard, the correct skateboard size can make a big difference to your outcome.
At the end of the day, it’s all about how it feels to you, but here are some general guidelines.
Familiarize yourself with the illustration below.
Width
Skateboards will be 7.5 – 8.25 inches wide.
A person’s height should be directly proportional to the width.
So the taller the rider, the wider the board should be.
Also, think of the purpose of skateboarding. If you plan to grind in the streets, a narrower board is preferred as it will make it easier to do tricks.
Ramp or vert skating will require wider board.
Here is our suggestions for Deck Sizes based on a person’s height, age and shoe size.
In case of conflict, the height is a better basis for deck width.
Sizing Chart
| Height Range | Estimated Age | Shoe Size | Deck Width | Board Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 3’4” | 5 y.o and below | 3 or smaller | 6.5”- 6.75” | Micro |
| 3’5” – 4’4” | 6-7 y.o | 4 - 5 | 7.0” | Mini |
| 4’5” – 5’2” | 8-12 y.o. | 6-7 | 7.3” | Small |
| 5’3” – 5’6” | 13-14 y.o. | 7-8 | 7.5”-7.6” | Mid-Size |
| 5’7” and taller | 15 y.o. and older | 9 and up | 7.7” or wider | Full |
Length
Measuring from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail gives you the length which is usually about 28 inches to 32 inches.
For street, ramp or vert skateboarding, small young children can opt for 28 or 29 inches.
Teenagers and adults can go for 30-31 inches decks.
Taller people should select a longer deck for improved balance.
Size Boards:
| Board Length | Height Range | Stance width |
|---|---|---|
| 29.5” / 75 cm | Upto 5’6” (167 cm) | 20” |
| 30.3”/ 77 cm | 5’6” – 5’8” (167-172 cm) | 20.8” |
| 31.5”/ 80 cm | 5’8” - 5’10” (172-179cm) | 22.0” |
| 32.7”/ 83 cm | 5’11” - 6’1” (180 – 185 cm) | 23.2” |
| 33.5” / 85 cm | 6’0 and up (185 cm and up) | 24.0” |
Wheelbase
The measurement between the inner holes where the trucks are attached is called the wheelbase. It is usually about 13 – 15 inches.
Smaller skaters should opt for a smaller wheelbase as it will give better grasp of the board.
Taller skaters will find it more comfortable to have a wider wheelbase so as to make a better stance.
Summary:
At the end of the day, it’s all about how it feels to you. It’s not uncommon for taller people to use shorter decks and vice versa. Just depends on what feels right to you.
Good luck skating and let’s see some awesome street tricks!
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