If you’re new to skateboarding choosing the right skateboard for you can sometimes feel like the hardest decision you’ll have to make. With a vast selection and range in prices for skateboards or even choosing to build your own can all feel overwhelming. If you are just starting out in the game here are a couple of useful tips that will help you out. Beginners may as well buy a skateboard already put together called a ‘complete’. You’ll still need to find the correct dimension. Here is a little secret, finding the right size and fit is almost impossible! That’s because as a new skater you don’t really know what you want….

Here are 5 tips that will show you what you want whether you’re buying a complete, building it from scratch or upgrading your current skateboard:

1. Figure out what type of skating you like- street, park, vert, all terrain or cruising
2. Choosing the right length- This is only a guideline, not a definitive rule:

Under 4’ = 29” or smaller
4’ to 4’10” = 29” to 30” long
4’10” to 5’3” = 30.5” to 31.5” long
5’3” to 5”8” = 31.5” to 32” long
5”8” to 6’1” = 32” to 32.5” long
Over 6’1” = 32.4” and up

3. Choosing the right width- It all depends on how big your feet are most skaters tend to go for between 7.5” – 8”. If you have big feet though go for a bit wider and if your feet are small go for a big narrower.
4. Choosing wheels to compliment the way you ride- Most skaters will be happy to use 52mm -54mm with a hardness of 99a. For specific wheel diameter durometer for different styles of skating try these out:

Transition/Vert: 60mm with a hardness of 95-100a

Street/Technical: 50-55mm with a hardness of 97-101a

Both/All Terrain: 52-60mm with a hardness of 95-100a

Cruising: 64-75mm with a hardness of 78-85a

5. Match your truck size with your deck- you’ll want your trucks to be within ¼” of the size of  your deck:

4.75 for up to 7.5″ wide decks
5.0 for up to 7.75″ wide decks
5.25 for up to 8.125″ wide decks
For 8.25″ and up, you can use 5.25 trucks, or use super wide trucks (like the Independent 169mm)

So if you want any more tips on skateboards there is a gold mine of information available for free at The Urban Games at Whitley Bay Skate Park on the 13^th of August. The skate and BMX jam is going to be hosted by the highly talented Urban Skate Myth. There is going to be music, demo sessions, urban and hip hop games medal events, so don’t miss out on this great opportunity.

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