First board or new deck: the question always comes up. What width should you choose? Don't panic, here's what you need to know to find the right deck for you.
Width, the number one factor
A skateboard deck is chosen first by its width, measured in inches (1 inch = 2.54 cm). Most decks are between 7.5" and 8.5" wide. Length varies little and usually follows the width.
Depending on how you skate
- 7.5" to 7.875": a narrow, light deck that's easy to spin. Great for flip tricks and technical street skating, or for smaller feet.
- 8.0" to 8.25": the most versatile size, for street as well as skatepark. It's the most common width.
- 8.375" and up: more surface and more stability. Perfect for bowls, ramps, big stairs or simply if you like plenty of room under your feet.
Depending on your shoe size
Your shoe size is a good starting point. As a guide:
| Shoe size (EU) | Recommended width |
|---|---|
| 38 and under | 7.5" to 7.75" |
| 39 to 41 | 7.75" to 8.0" |
| 42 to 44 | 8.0" to 8.25" |
| 45 and up | 8.25" to 8.5" and up |
These are only guidelines: lots of skaters with big feet prefer a narrow deck for flip tricks, and the other way round.
Just starting out?
A deck between 8.0" and 8.125" is a great compromise to start with: wide enough to be stable, easy enough to handle to learn your first tricks. For kids, go for narrower decks.
Don't forget the trucks
Your trucks should be about the same width as your deck: too narrow and the board gets unstable; too wide and the wheels stick out and hit obstacles. Each brand gives the recommended deck width for its trucks. Check out our Independent, Film, Tensor or Thunder trucks, and ask us for advice if you're not sure.
What about the rest?
How deep the concave is, the shape of the nose and tail, the wood used (usually 7-ply): these details change the feel, but they come after the width. The best way to compare them is to hold the decks in your hands.
Come and try in store
Find all our skateboard decks, from the Zoo York 7.75" to the Mini Logo 8.5", via the Santa Cruz 8.125" or the Thank You 8.25". And for personal advice, drop by the shop at 3 rue Folco de Baroncelli in Avignon: we'll help you set up your board.