What Size Skateboard Do You Need?
Skateboard size comes down to deck width, and unlike a lot of gear there is no single right answer. Width is mostly about what feels comfortable under your feet and the kind of skating you do. If you are starting out or unsure, there is a sensible range for your shoe size that will get you on the right board fast.
The short version
- Most adult street skaters: 8.0 to 8.25 inch
- All-round street and park: 8.25 to 8.5 inch
- Transition, bowls and vert: 8.5 inch and wider
- Kids and smaller feet: 7.9 inch and under
- Width matters, length mostly does not
- If you are still unsure: an 8.0 to 8.5 inch complete is the safest first board
What we cover: Size chart · Picking within your range · Decks vs completes · FAQ
Why does width matter more than length?
Most standard decks run a similar length and wheelbase, so when skaters talk about board size they almost always mean the width in inches. Narrower decks are lighter and flip faster, which suits technical street and flip tricks. Wider decks are more stable underfoot, which suits transition, ramps, cruising and bigger riders. Neither is better, they are just built for different things.
Skateboard deck size chart
These are the same width bands we use to filter our decks online, so once you know your size you can shop straight to it.
| Deck width | Best for | Rider guide |
|---|---|---|
| 7.9 inch and under | Kids, smaller feet, technical street and flip tricks | Youth and smaller adults, US 6 to 7 shoe or under |
| 8.0 to 8.25 inch | Street skating, flip tricks, all-round progression | The most popular range, suits most adult street skaters, US 7.5 to 10 shoe |
| 8.26 to 8.75 inch | All-round, transition, ramps, parks, cruising | Taller riders, bigger feet, anyone wanting more stability, US 9.5 to 12 shoe |
| 8.76 inch and over | Transition, vert, pools, old school, cruising | Big riders, large feet, pure ramp and bowl skating, US 12 and up |
These ranges overlap on purpose. A street skater with bigger feet might still prefer an 8.25 inch for the faster flip, and a transition skater might size up for stability. Shoe size is a starting point, not a rule.
How do you pick within your range?
- Technical street and flip tricks: go narrower, 8.0 to 8.25 inch. Less weight, faster flips, quicker response.
- All-round street and park: 8.25 to 8.5 inch is the sweet spot most skaters land on. Stable enough for everything, still nimble.
- Transition, ramps, bowls and vert: go wider, 8.5 inch and up. More foot platform, more stability at speed and on coping.
- Cruising and old school: wider shaped or old school decks, 8.75 inch and up, give a planted, comfortable ride.
- Just starting out: an 8.0 to 8.5 inch complete is the safest first board. Forgiving, versatile, easy to progress on.
Should you buy a deck or a complete?
If you are new, a complete skateboard comes set up and ready to ride straight out of the box, which is the easiest way to start. If you are building a custom setup or replacing a snapped deck, you will choose a deck on its own and pair it with your own trucks, wheels and bearings. Either way the width guide above applies, because it is the deck width that determines your size.
For the full setup breakdown including trucks, wheels and bearings, read How to Choose a Skateboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size skateboard do I need?
An 8.0 to 8.25 inch deck suits most adult street skaters and is the most popular range we sell. Go narrower for technical flip tricks, wider for transition and cruising. A US 7.5 to 10 shoe fits that band comfortably.
What size skateboard should I get for a kid?
7.9 inch and under, which suits youth and smaller adults on a US 6 to 7 shoe or below. A narrower, lighter deck is easier to control and flip. Move up to an 8.0 inch complete once they are into adult shoe sizes.
Does skateboard deck length matter?
Much less than width. Most standard decks run a similar length and wheelbase, so when skaters talk about board size they almost always mean width in inches. Choose your width first and treat length as a secondary detail.
What size skateboard deck for size 12 feet?
8.76 inch and over. Large feet need the extra platform, and that width also suits transition, vert, pools and cruising. Riders on a US 9.5 to 12 shoe usually land between 8.26 and 8.75 inch.
Should I buy a deck on its own or a complete?
A complete if you are new, because it arrives set up and ready to ride. A deck on its own if you are building a custom setup or replacing a snapped one. Deck width determines your size either way.
Can I try skateboard deck sizes in store in Melbourne?
Yes, and standing on a few decks tells you more than any chart. Come into 435A Bridge Road, Richmond, open seven days. Free shipping Australia-wide on orders over $90 if you would rather order online.
Still not sure?
The best way to find your size is to stand on a few boards. Come into our Richmond store and our team will set you up, or call us on (03) 9421 2293 and we will help you choose. Free shipping Australia-wide on orders over $90.
Shop: Skateboard Decks · Complete Skateboards · All Skateboards
Keep reading: How to Choose a Skateboard · How to Choose a Skateboard Setup · Best Skateboards Australia 2026 · How to Choose a Longboard or Cruiser
Back to all skate guides · All buying and size guides · 435A Bridge Road, Richmond VIC
