SKATEBOARD DECK GUIDE

Choosing the right deck size depends on your shoe size, height, and riding style.

Kids / Youth Riders
• Deck Width: 7.0″ – 7.5″
• Rider Height: Under 4’6″ (137 cm)
• Shoe Size: US 1–6
• Best For: Beginners, young riders, easy control.

Teens & Smaller Adults
• Deck Width: 7.5″ – 7.9″
• Rider Height: 4’6″ – 5’3″ (137–160 cm)
• Shoe Size: US 6–8
• Best For: Street skating, technical tricks.


Average Adult
• Deck Width: 8.0″ – 8.25″
• Rider Height: 5’3″ – 6’0″ (160–183 cm)
• Shoe Size: US 8–10
• Best For: All-around skating, park & street.


Taller or Bigger Riders
• Deck Width: 8.25″ – 8.5″+
• Rider Height: 6’0″+ (183 cm+)
• Shoe Size: US 10+
• Best For: Vert ramps, cruising, stability.

Tip:
• Narrow decks = lighter, flip tricks easier.
• Wider decks = more stability, better for ramps & cruising.

Street Tip:
“Go narrow for flips, wide for stability.”

Best Width By Rider Type

7.0 – 7.5″ Light & easy control Kids / small teens
7.5 – 7.9″ Technical street tricks Teens / smaller adults
8.0 – 8.25″ All-around skating Average adult
8.25″+ Stability & ramps Tall / big riders

BOARD SHAPES

Skateboard decks come in a variety of shapes depending on style, terrain, and rider preference. Here are the main skateboard deck shapes:

1. Popsicle Shape (Standard)
- Most common shape for street and park skating
- Symmetrical nose and tail
- Good for flip tricks, ollies, and technical skating

2. Cruiser Decks
- Shaped with a wider, sometimes pointy nose and a shorter tail
- Often have a kicktail but sometimes flat
- Best for cruising, commuting, and carving

3. Old School Shape
- Wider front with a square tail
- Usually has a single kicktail
- Popular in pool skating, vert, and 80s-inspired riding

4. Shaped / Custom Decks
- Asymmetrical shapes with unique cutouts
- Designed for style or specific tricks
- Used by skaters who want something different from the standard popsicle

5. Longboard Decks
- Much longer and wider
- Shapes vary (pintail, drop-through, top mount, etc.)
- Best for downhill, cruising, or dancing

6. Double Kick Shape
- Both nose and tail have kicks (like a popsicle)
- Popular for street and technical tricks