WHAT IS THE BEST SKATEBOARD SIZE FOR ME?

• Posted on 14 April 2025
• By George Stix
• Posted in SIZE, skateboard
• 0

WHAT IS THE BEST SKATEBOARD SIZE FOR ME?

Choosing the best skateboard size can be a daunting task, especially with so many variables at play. At STIX SGV, we help skaters—from first-timers to seasoned rippers—find the right setup tailored to their needs and style. Whether you're skating curbs in Monrovia, hill bombs in Claremont, or South Pas plaza lines, your board's size and shape will make all the difference.

The most common way to measure a skateboard is by its width, which typically ranges from 7.75" to over 9.0". For street skaters who prioritize flip tricks, a board between 7.75" and 8.25" is usually ideal. Brands like Baker, Krooked, and Real offer a wide variety of shapes in this range, perfect for ledges and flatground. On the other hand, Anti Hero and Creature make larger decks in the 8.5" to 9.0"+ range, which are better for pools, bowls, and big transitions.

While width is often the focus, deck length plays an underrated role. Most decks fall between 31.5" to 32.5". A longer board adds stability and is generally better for taller riders or those skating ramps. Shorter decks feel more reactive and are great for quick snaps in street skating. STIX SGV stocks options across this spectrum, and we can help you compare different brands side-by-side.

Wheelbase, the distance between your trucks, affects turning radius and stability. A shorter wheelbase gives you a tighter turning radius, making it easier to carve or pivot on flat. Longer wheelbases feel more stable and are preferred by vert skaters and those who cruise or bomb hills. Real and Anti Hero offer boards with a wide variety of wheelbase options, especially in their Easy Riders and Classic constructions.

Shape matters more than you might think. Concave, nose and tail angles, and overall silhouette define how your board feels under your feet. Brands like Krooked and Real offer boards with twin tail shapes and symmetrical designs for riders who skate switch often. Meanwhile, Anti Hero and Creature often lean toward shaped decks with shovel noses or squared tails for more cruise and bowl-heavy skating.

The nose and tail length can affect trick execution. A longer nose can help with nollies and nose manuals, while a longer tail provides more leverage for ollies. Twin tail boards, like some of Ishod Wair’s pro models from Real, provide a balanced feel for switch and regular stance skaters.

Beyond measurements, construction is critical. Many mass-market boards are pressed in China, often leading to inconsistencies in shape and flex. At STIX SGV, we prioritize decks from brands like Deluxe (Real, Krooked, Anti Hero) and Baker Boys Distribution (Baker, Deathwish), which use wood pressed in Mexico or the U.S. These decks offer more consistent quality and better pop.

Boards pressed in Mexico, particularly from BBS Woodshop, are known for their longer-lasting pop and durability. Brands like Deathwish and Baker rely on this manufacturing quality to support their heavy-hitting teams. On the flip side, China-pressed boards might be cheaper, but they often warp or lose shape faster.

One aesthetic decision is whether to go dipped or not. A dipped deck is fully painted, often in bold colors or matte finishes. They look clean but may chip more visibly. Natural or stained wood decks (like many from Real and Krooked) show off the ply layers and wear more organically. Some skaters like watching the graphic fade from wear—a badge of honor.

Weight matters, too. A wider, longer deck with more ply may weigh more, which affects how easily you can snap your tricks. For younger skaters or those learning flip tricks, a lighter board in the 7.75"-8.0" range might feel more manageable. Talk to us in-store to pick up decks and feel the differences.

Don’t forget your shoe size when choosing board width. A rule of thumb: shoe sizes 6-9 generally pair well with decks in the 7.75"-8.0" range; sizes 9-11 match up better with 8.0"-8.5" boards; and anything 11+ can benefit from an 8.5"+ deck to prevent toe drag.

What you skate also influences your choice. A ledge-heavy skater in South Pasadena might prefer a narrow Real Twin Tail deck. A pool skater in Claremont might ride a big 9.0" Anti Hero shaped board. STIX SGV carries both ends of the spectrum and everything in between.

Graphic appeal shouldn’t be overlooked. You’re going to be looking at your deck every session. Whether it’s the iconic Anti Hero eagle or a Krooked Gonz doodle, pick something that hypes you up. We stock rotating drops so you can find something that speaks to your style.

If you're still unsure, stop by any STIX SGV shop—we’ll let you grip, test the feel, and compare setups. Skateboarding is personal, and your board should reflect how and where you skate.

The perfect skateboard size is about balance: your size, your tricks, your terrain, and your taste. Whether you’re ripping rails, cruising the SGV streets, or just getting started, we’ll help you get it straight—or crooked.