Technique
Choosing your deck size
Why shoe size means nothing, and what to look at instead.
C. Faure 1 min read
Width first
A board is chosen on its width, measured in inches at its widest point. Width decides how fast it spins, how forgiving the landings are, and how comfortable it stays over a long session.
Three ways to skate, three widths
Technical street wants a light, quick board: 7.75 to 8.0 inches. Ledge and gap street benefits from moving up to 8.25, where landings get more forgiving. Bowl and transition make the most of 8.25 to 8.5, steadier underfoot through a hard carve.
What does not count
Shoe size, rider height, weight: none of the three predicts the right width. They come up often because they are easy to measure, not because they are relevant.
The best marker: the board you are on
If you already skate, look at what is under your feet. A quarter inch either way is clearly noticeable, half an inch is a different board. Move one step at a time.
Updated on 09/08/2026
All guides