Skateboard size guide, parts and design toolBoard Lab
Draw on a blank deck, learn what every part of a skateboard does, and find the setup that fits you.
Skateboard sizes and parts, answered
Straight answers to the questions people ask before buying a skateboard or setting one up.
What size skateboard should I get?
Most adults ride a deck between 8.0" and 8.5" wide. Around 8.0" to 8.25" is a common all-round starting point for street and skatepark riding. Bigger feet, or wanting more stability, often suits 8.375" to 8.5". Kids usually ride narrower decks. Comfort matters more than any single number. Read the full size guide
What size trucks do I need for an 8.25" deck?
Pick trucks with an axle width close to your deck width. For an 8.25" deck, common size charts list Independent 144, Venture 5.6, Krux 8.25 and Ace 44. Brands label sizes differently, so check the axle width the manufacturer lists before you buy. See the truck size chart
What size skateboard wheels are best for beginners?
For skateparks and smooth ground, wheels around 52mm to 54mm with a hard durometer (around 99a) are a common choice. If you mostly cruise or ride rough streets, softer wheels (around 78a to 87a) of 54mm or more roll smoother and quieter. Compare wheel sizes
What is a complete skateboard, and should a beginner buy one?
A complete is a ready-to-ride board with the deck, grip tape, trucks, wheels, bearings and hardware already assembled. For most beginners it is the simplest first board. Look for a 7-ply maple deck, metal trucks and urethane wheels rather than a plastic toy board.
What are the parts of a skateboard?
A skateboard has a deck (usually 7-ply maple) with grip tape on top, two trucks (baseplate, hanger, axle, kingpin and bushings), four wheels, eight bearings (two per wheel) and eight bolts and nuts that hold it together. Some setups add riser pads between the trucks and the deck. Explore every part
How do I make my skateboard turn more easily or feel more stable?
Turning is set by the trucks. Loosening the kingpin nut or using softer bushings makes the board turn more easily. Tightening the nut or using harder bushings makes it feel more stable. Make small changes and leave enough thread so the nut stays secure.
Do ABEC ratings matter for skateboard bearings?
Not much. Nearly all skateboard bearings are the standard 608 size, and a higher ABEC number does not automatically mean a better ride. Keeping bearings clean and dry makes a bigger difference to how freely your wheels spin.
What is wheel bite and how do I stop it?
Wheel bite is when a wheel touches the deck as you turn, which can stop the board suddenly. Riser pads, slightly tighter trucks, harder bushings or smaller wheels all add clearance. It is more common with big wheels and loose trucks.
Do I need my own skateboard before a lesson?
No. At Just Skate Bangkok, a board and protective gear are part of the service if you do not have your own yet, and your coach can help you work out which size suits you before you buy one. Book a lesson
Skateboard truck size chart by deck width
| Deck width | Independent | Venture | Krux | Ace |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.0" | 136/139 | 5.2 | 8.0 | 33/03 |
| 8.125" | 136/139, 146 | 5.2 | 8.0 | 33/03 |
| 8.25" | 144, 146 | 5.6 | 8.25 | 44 |
| 8.375" | 144, 146, 149, 151 | 5.8 | 8.5 | 44 |
| 8.5" | 146, 149, 151 | 5.8, 6.1 | 8.5 | 44, 55 |
Get a board
Where to get your skateboard
Our go-to places in Thailand for skateboards and gear, or have one made just for you.
Best pricesDecathlon on Shopee
Decathlon's official store on Shopee Mall. Complete skateboards, helmets, pads, skate bags and spare parts at some of the best prices around.
- Skateboards
- Helmets & pads
- Bags
- Spare parts
Local Thai brandTightland BKK
A Thai skate brand with a shop in Bangkok: their own grip tape and clothing, decks from Thai brands, plus trucks and wheels from the big names. Shop online, ships worldwide.
- Grip tape
- Thai decks
- Trucks & wheels
- Clothing
Colorful blanksSleepy Skateboards
A Thai skateboard brand known for stained blank decks in every color, from 8.0" to 8.5". Graphic decks too, plus trucks, wheels and grip to build a complete. Order by message.
- Blank decks
- Graphic decks
- Completes
- 8.0" to 8.5"
- Made to order
Custom board
Your shape, your size, your design. Tell us what you want and we will get it made and send you a quote.
- Any shape
- Any size
- Your artwork
Decathlon, Tightland BKK and Sleepy Skateboards are independent shops. Not sure what size to get? Read our size guide
When you are ready
DESIGNED IT?
NOW RIDE IT.
Learn on a real board with a private, beginner-friendly lesson in Bangkok. No experience needed.
Book a free sessionSome links may be affiliate links. Just Skate Bangkok may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.