Ever been in a beef about whether deck size impacts your kickflip? While some argue it’s all about skill, others swear the right setup makes a mondo diff. Check out the best decks for street skating, and you’ll see size does matter.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into skateboard size specifics and what it means for your shredding game.
Key takeaways
- <b>Board width should match your shoe size</b> for optimal control and comfort.
- <b>Smaller boards</b> for technical tricks; <b>wider boards</b> for stability and vert skating.
- <b>Experimenting with board sizes</b> can vastly improve your skateboarding skills.
How does board size affect your ride?
When you’re hunting for that perfect skateboard, size isn’t just a number; it’s a crucial factor shaping your whole skate experience. Whether you’re aiming for a killer tre flip or just cruising, the board’s dimensions can make or break those ambitions. Here’s the lowdown on why and how the size of your skateboard can be a game-changer.
1. Balance and stability
A wider board will offer more stability, which can mean the world when you’re cruising through the gnarliest parts of the park. If you’re a newbie or a seasoned skater tackling complex maneuvers, the added balance from a board that matches your shoe size can prevent a slam. For tips on maintaining your board, peep the advice on how to clean skateboard grip tape.
On the flip side, a narrower board is generally more responsive. Advanced shredders might prefer the nimbleness it provides for tech tricks and sharp turns. It’s all about finding a width that syncs with your skating style and body type.
The best guide? Your own feet. Align them with the bolts and go from there.
2. Maneuverability and tricks
Let’s talk about pops and flips. A smaller board might be easier to flick, which could help when you’re learning new tricks. Having less wood under your feet means less effort needed to send your board spinning.
You can suss out a progression of tricks ideal for smaller setups with this list of skateboard tricks in learning order.
But don’t be fooled—bigger boards can pop, too. They might require a bit more muscle, but they give you a heftier platform to catch, which can be crucial for landing those bolder aerials. It’s the sweet spot between ease of flip and area to land that’ll determine your preferred size for the park or the streets.
3. Comfort and shoe size
Your board should feel like an extension of your feet. It ain’t just about looking cool; it’s about real comfort. Riders with larger feet might find a wider deck more accommodating, letting them feel more planted when they skate.
Understanding what type of skateboard you should get is key to aligning your gear with your physique.
On the other end, smaller feet can get lost on a board that’s too wide, making it tougher to control. Think of it as wearing shoes that don’t fit—it’s doable, but why struggle? Match your deck width to your shoe size for the most tuned-in riding session.
When it fits just right, you’ll know it.
4. Skate discipline and preference
Are you all about vert, street, or maybe a bit of both? Your skating terrain influences the ideal board size. Vert rippers usually favor wider decks for more surface during airs and grabs.
Heading to the bowl? Scope out these top-notch skateboard trucks for bowls to pair with your wider deck for the perfect vert setup.
Street dominators might swing the opposite way—opting for slimmer, lighter boards that make flicks and technical maneuvers a cinch. This preference is shaped by the rider’s approach to skating as much as their physical attributes. Reflect on where and how you skate most to hit the mark on size.
5. Learning curve and skill level
Beginners usually benefit from a slightly larger board. It offers a solid base to master the basics without feeling like you’ll tip over at every push. This helps with confidence, an underrated aspect of learning how to skate.
Getting the right skateboard size isn’t just about what works; it’s about finding a piece of yourself in the ride. Your board should feel like an extension of your feet and reflect your personal style and skate approach.
Anyone kicking off their skating journey should check out tips on how to learn skateboarding as an adult.
As you notch up your skill level, you might crave a smaller board to challenge your newfound abilities with quicker flips and more intricate tricks. This evolution is natural—the more control you gain, the more you can sacrifice in stability for trick complexity. It all boils down to pushing your limits at a comfortable pace.
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More skateboarding tips
When it comes to skateboarding, bagging the right board size is just one piece of the game. To truly rip and grip the streets or ramps, you need a few more tricks up your sleeve. Here are some extra nuggets of wisdom to keep your skating sharp and on point.
- Experiment with different skateboard types to find your best fit—mix it up with cruisers or longboards for a different feel.
- Dial in your stance and foot placement for optimum control, whether you’re goofy or regular.
- Upgrade your setup with quality parts like the best skateboard bearings for a smoother ride.
- Consistently practice to discover your preferences—what feels off today might just be your go-to board tomorrow.
- Keep deck maintenance in check—learn how to repair your skateboard for longevity.
To make sure you’re both shredding it and playing it safe, here are a few dos and don’ts to stick to.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Wear proper safety gear at all times. | Ignore any pain or discomfort while skating. |
| Regularly check and maintain your board. | Push harder than your current skill level allows. |
| Learn the basics before attempting advanced tricks. | Skate in unsafe or prohibited areas. |
| Watch tutorials and learn from pros. | Neglect the quality of your skate shoes. |
Keep these guidelines handy to make every session count.
Free Download: My 20 Essential Skateboard Tricks PDF
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Advantages and disadvantages of choosing the right skateboard size
Selecting the correct skateboard size is pivotal in shaping your skateboarding experience. Here’s a rundown on what you stand to gain and what might hold you back when you’ve got the dimensions dialed in.
Advantages
- Enhanced stability for beginners which leads to faster confidence building.
- A better fit for your feet ensures more control and a natural ride.
- Customized experience for your preferred skate style—be it street, vert, or transitions.
- Improved potential for landing tricks thanks to a well-sized deck.
- Overall higher comfort levels during long periods of skating.
Disadvantages
- Limited maneuverability with wider boards, especially in technical skating.
- Possible slower progression in trick learning with an oversized board for your style or body type.
- Increased weight of larger boards may affect performance in street skating.
- Adaptability may take a hit if you switch skate styles and your board isn’t versatile.
- Costs may increase if you need to buy multiple boards to suit different styles or preferences.
In my opinion, as someone who’s not a complete expert but has spent a good chunk of time in the skate scene, the size of your board can seriously affect your overall skate experience. It’s like choosing a wand in the wizarding world—get it right, and magic happens. I’ve seen too many newbies give up because they were riding a board that was all wrong for their size and skate style.
If you’re in doubt, try a variety of sizes and see how you feel. You can always consult resources on choosing the right board, like this one on how to learn skateboarding as an adult.
Honestly, while size does matter, it’s not the end-all, be-all. Adaptation is a trait all good skaters have. When you’re out there shredding, remember it’s about how you work with what you’ve got.
If Nyjah Huston can tear it up on any board size, then there’s room for us to be flexible too. But hey, that’s just my take. You do you, and let your ride speak for itself!
If you are a visual learner, check out this video titled ‘WHAT SIZE SKATEBOARD SHOULD YOU RIDE? (7.75, 8.0, 8.25, etc.)’
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can a skateboard be too wide?
Yes, a skateboard can definitely feel too wide, especially if it’s not in sync with your shoe size or your skate style. A board that’s too wide can make it hard to execute tricks and can lead to less control, making your skating feel awkward or cumbersome.
Is a bigger skateboard easier for beginners?
Generally, yes, a bigger skateboard offers more space and stability, making it easier for beginners to find their balance and build confidence. However, “bigger” doesn’t mean you should go for the largest board out there—just something that gives you a solid platform without being unwieldy.
Does board length matter as much as width?
Board length does matter, particularly when you’re looking at skating style. Longer boards provide more stability, which is great for cruising. Shorter boards can be advantageous for technical street skating as they are easier to maneuver.
It’s a balance between personal comfort and intended use.
Final thoughts
So there you have it, my fellow street shredders and vert virtuosos. Finding the ideal skateboard size is a mix of science and personal preference that can influence everything from your first ollie to nailing those dream tricks. It’s about harmony between your body and the board — and when you find that perfect match, you’ll feel it in every carve and every grind.
Keep exploring, keep tweaking your setup, and most importantly, keep skating.
What’s been your experience with different board sizes? Did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on choosing the right skateboard size. Thanks for reading and keep pushing those limits!
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