Deck Buying Guide
Find your skateboard deck size
Deck width is the most important measurement. Your shoe size provides a useful starting point, while your riding style helps determine whether you should choose a narrower or wider deck.
Choose by riding style
Technical street
Quicker to flip and easier to move underfoot. A good choice for smaller shoes or skaters focused on technical and flip tricks.
All-round skating
A balanced choice for learning, street skating, skateparks and everyday sessions. This is the safest starting range for most adults.
Transition and cruising
More room and stability for bowls, ramps, gaps, cruising, bigger feet or skaters who prefer a more solid platform.
Deck width by shoe size
| UK shoe | US men’s/unisex | EU shoe | Suggested width | Starting point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 or under | 4 or under | 36 or under | 7.0–7.5″ | 7.25″ |
| 4–6 | 5–7 | 37–40 | 7.5–8.0″ | 7.75″ |
| 7–8 | 8–9 | 41–42 | 7.75–8.25″ | 8.0″ |
| 9–10 | 10–11 | 43–45 | 8.0–8.5″ | 8.25″ |
| 11+ | 12+ | 46+ | 8.25″ and wider | 8.5″ |
Shoe-size conversions vary slightly between brands. Use this chart as a starting point—comfort and riding style matter more than an exact match.
Deck sizing for kids
| Skater height | Suggested width | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Under 105 cm / 3′5″ | 6.5–7.0″ | Micro complete with a shorter deck and wheelbase |
| 105–130 cm / 3′5″–4′3″ | 7.0–7.25″ | Mini complete that is easier to steer and control |
| 130–160 cm / 4′3″–5′3″ | 7.25–7.75″ | Mid-size deck adjusted for shoe size and confidence |
| Over 160 cm / 5′3″ | 7.75″ and wider | Use the adult shoe-size and riding-style guidance above |
Height is usually more useful than age when choosing a child’s skateboard.
Narrow or wide?
Narrower decks
- Quicker rotation for flip tricks
- Less weight beneath your feet
- Less landing room and stability
Wider decks
- More space and stability when landing
- Comfortable on ramps, bowls and rough ground
- A little more effort for fast flip tricks
Match your trucks to your deck
Truck axle width should sit roughly flush with the edges of your deck. Truck sizing varies by brand, so always check the manufacturer’s size chart before ordering.
| Deck width | Suitable axle width | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 7.5–7.875″ | About 7.6–8.0″ | Narrow street setup |
| 8.0–8.25″ | About 8.0–8.25″ | All-round setup |
| 8.25–8.5″ | About 8.25–8.5″ | Street and transition |
| 8.5–9.0″ | About 8.5–9.0″ | Bowl, ramp or cruiser setup |
Deck size FAQs
Does skateboard deck length matter?
For most adult street decks, width is the main decision because standard deck lengths are broadly similar. Children and shorter skaters can benefit from a shorter deck and wheelbase, while taller skaters may prefer more room between the trucks.
What is wheelbase?
Wheelbase is the distance between the inner truck mounting holes. A shorter wheelbase generally turns more quickly and feels compact, while a longer wheelbase usually feels more stable and spacious.
What concave should I choose?
Medium concave is a dependable all-round choice. Mellow concave feels relaxed and stable, while steep concave provides stronger edge feedback for technical tricks.
Should beginners buy a wider deck?
Many beginners enjoy the extra standing and landing space of an 8.0–8.25 inch deck. You do not need to go very wide unless your feet, riding style or personal preference call for it.
What if I am choosing between two sizes?
Choose the narrower size for quicker technical skating or the wider size for extra stability and landing space. There is no wrong size if it feels comfortable beneath your feet.