Picking your first skateboard is thrilling, but can also feel overwhelming with all the choices. This guide makes it easier by explaining skateboard sizes for beginners. It shows why size matters for your skating fun and skill improvement. No matter if you love street skating, park riding, or cruising, getting the right board size is key. We will cover board sizes for all ages, from kids to adults, to help you begin.
Key Takeaways
- Common skateboard widths for beginners are 7.75″, 8.0″, and 8.25″.
- Typical lengths for street skateboards are around 32″.
- Junior skateboards generally have widths ranging from 7.25″ to 7.5″.
- The ideal deck size varies based on age, height, and shoe size.
- Quality mid-range skateboards for kids start at approximately £30.
Why Skateboard Length Matters for Beginners
Understanding the significance of skateboard length is vital when you’re just starting to skateboard. For newbies, the skateboard’s length really helps with learning and doing basic moves well. Most skateboards are about 32 inches long, but this can change depending on your skateboarding style.
For young kids, aged 3-5 years, a junior-size skateboard is best. These are usually about 29 inches long and 7.25 to 7.5 inches wide. Bigger skateboards, about 32 inches long, are chosen by older skaters for better stability and control. The length of the skateboard is very important as it affects how fast you learn and how comfortable you feel.
It’s key to pick a skateboard that matches your skate style. Street skateboards, for example, are between 28 and 33 inches long to make doing tricks and maneuvering easier. If you plan on doing tricks or skatepark riding, getting a board that gives you good balance and control is crucial.
Choosing the right skateboard length also means avoiding mistakes like picking a board that’s too long or too short, which can mess up your performance. To help you find the perfect skateboard length, here’s a breakdown:
| Age Group | Recommended Deck Size | Average Length |
|---|---|---|
| 3-5 Years | 7.0″ – 7.375″ | 29″ |
| 6-12 Years | 7.375″ – 8.0″ | 28″ – 31″ |
| 13 and Older | 8.0″ and up | 32″ – 33″ |
Using these beginner skateboard tips to choose can make a big difference in your skateboarding start. Make a smart choice, and you’ll learn and gain confidence quicker.
Standard Skateboard Lengths Explained
Understanding skateboard lengths and sizes is key for choosing the right board. Street skateboards range from 28 to 33 inches long. The size chart helps pick the best board for your style and needs.
Street skateboards have decks from 7.75 to 8.5 inches wide for better control and tricks. Beginners or smaller skaters often go for decks less than 7.75 inches wide. It makes it easier to balance and learn the basics.
| Skateboard Type | Width (inches) | Length (inches) | Recommended Age | Recommended Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Micro | 6.5 – 6.75 | Shorter than 27 | 1+ years | Around 3’4” |
| Mini | 7.0 – 7.5 | 27.5 – 30.5 | 2 to 5 years | 3’5” – 4’4” |
| Mid | 7.25 – 7.35 | 30.5 – 31.5 | 6 to 8 years | 4’5” – 5’2” |
| Full | 7.5 – 9 | Greater than 31.5 | 9+ years | 5’3” and above |
Transition or pool skating needs wider decks, 8.25 inches or more. They offer better stability for bowl riding and big drops. But they need more energy for flips.
It’s important to know how deck width affects control and energy use. The size chart helps match your preferences with the right skateboard. This way, you can enjoy skateboarding more and do better.
The Best Length for Your Height and Weight
Finding the perfect skateboard length for your height and weight is key. It makes your ride comfy and in control. It helps to pick a skateboard that fits your body for better stability and agility. Whether cruising or doing tricks, here’s how to pick your best fit.
Firstly, your height links to the skateboard length you need. Short skateboards (about 28 inches) work well for those who are younger or shorter. Taller or older people might prefer longer boards (up to 33 inches). If you’re an adult with a US shoe size of 9.5 or more, aim for a deck that’s 8.0 inches wide or more. This would mean choosing a board that’s about 31.12 inches to 32.00 inches long.
When it comes to weight, the skateboard width matters too. Heavier riders find that wider decks (8.25 inches or more) offer better stability. But, if you’re lighter or a young skater, a narrower deck (7.00 to 7.50 inches) might be better. It can improve your control and make maneuvers easier.
Here is a useful chart for finding the right skateboard size for your body and how you skate:
| Rider Category | Deck Width | Deck Length |
|---|---|---|
| Youth Riders | 7.00″ to 7.50″ | 28″ to 30″ |
| Teen/Adult Riders (Street Skating) | 7.50″ to 8.00″ | 31.12″ |
| General Skating (Parks, Pools) | 8.00″ to 8.50″ | 31.38″ to 32.00″ |
| Transition Skating | 8.50″ and up | 32.00″ and above |
Ultimately, picking the right skateboard comes down to matching it to your body and what you like. Shoe size is important for tricks too. Even a small change in deck width can alter your performance. That’s due to differences in the board’s concave and shape. So, understanding these details will help you choose wisely.
Recommended Skateboard Sizes for Kids and Adults
Choosing the right skateboard size depends on your size and skate goals. Check this skateboard buying guide to make smart choices.
For kids 5 or younger, a Micro skateboard is best. It should be between 6.5” and 6.75” wide. This fits children up to 45 lbs. Kids 6 to 12 need boards from 7.375” to 8.0” wide. They should be 3’5″ to 5’2″ tall. Boys need US shoe sizes 4-6, and girls need 5.5-7.5.
Teens 13 and up starting out with skateboarding need boards that are 8.0” to 8.25” wide. These Mid Size boards are for those 5’3″ or taller. Men need shoe sizes 6.5-9, and women need 8-10.5. Adults need boards wider than 8.0” for better stability.
Narrow decks between 7.75” and 8.5” are great for street skating and tricks. Wider decks, 8.25” or more, help with stability for ramps or pools. Beginners should pick 52 mm to 54 mm wheels. They should have a hardness of 90A to 99A.
| Age Group | Recommended Sizes |
|---|---|
| Kids (5 and under) | Micro (6.5” to 6.75”) |
| Youths (6 to 12) | 7.375” to 8.0” |
| Teens (13 and older) | 8.0” to 8.25” |
| Adults | 8.0” and above |
Knowing these sizes helps you pick the right skateboard for your height, weight, and style. Use our guide to find a great board for fun skateboarding.
Additional Factors to Consider When Choosing a Skateboard
When choosing the right skateboard, look beyond size and length. There are other skateboard purchase considerations to keep in mind. The deck material is key. Choose maple wood for the right mix of strength and flexibility. Avoid plastic decks, as they’re not great for beginners. Plastic affects durability and how the board rides.
Wheels are a big deal too. The durometer rating tells you how hard the wheels are. You want polyurethane wheels with a durometer between 90a and 100a. They work on many surfaces. Soft wheels grip better on rough ground, while hard wheels are good for smooth areas. This choice changes how comfortable and in control you feel.
Don’t skimp on trucks. Quality matters here. Look for trucks made from aluminum or titanium. They last longer and perform better than cheap ones. Plastic trucks might be less expensive, but they won’t give you the stability or control you need. How the trucks respond affects your skateboarding tricks and turns.
Style also plays a part. A skateboard reflects your personality. Go for a design that feels right, whether it’s the art, colors, or the brand. Brands like Venom and Enuff mix good looks with quality. They offer cool designs for those just starting out.
Shoe size influences board width choice. Bigger feet might need a wider board. This helps with balance and control. Skateboards usually range from 7.5″ to 8.5″ in width. There’s a board that’s just right for everyone’s needs.
Finally, decide between a pre-built skateboard or building your own. Pre-builts are often cheaper and easier for beginners. They cost around $85.99 on average. Building your own lets you customize but costs more and requires knowledge of the parts.
Tips for First-Time Buyers
Starting your skateboarding journey is exciting. Yet, getting your first board seems hard. With these tips, buying your first skateboard will be easier. You’ll confidently find the perfect board for you.
Always choose quality over price. Cheap boards often use poor materials, making learning hard. A good beginner board needs to be durable and perform well. Look for high-quality complete skateboards. Recently, their quality has really improved. Aim to spend at least $30 for decent quality.
Choose a board size that feels right. For beginners, board widths like 7.75″, 8.0″, and 8.25″ are common. Street skateboards are usually around 32″ long. For kids or those with small feet, junior-sized boards are best. They range from 7.25″ to 7.5″ wide and about 29″ long. Matching your skateboard width to your shoe size works well. For instance, a 7.5″ deck fits shoe sizes US 1 – 6.
Look carefully at the wheels and bearings. Medium-hard wheels, from 90A-99A, work well on many surfaces. Bearings should be at least ABEC 5 for smooth rides. And don’t forget to wear helmets and pads for safety.
Following this advice for your first skateboard will put you on the right path. Remember, every skater began somewhere. Over time, you’ll discover what setups and styles work for you. Enjoy the journey and the skateboarding fun!
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!