Choosing Your First Skate Deck? Here's What You Need to Know!

Stepping into the world of skateboarding is exciting, but with so many options out there, choosing your first skateboard deck can feel overwhelming. The deck is the heart of your skateboard—it’s where your feet meet the board, and it sets the tone for how your skateboarding journey will begin. Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to help you pick the right one.

1. Understand Deck Sizes

The first thing you’ll notice when shopping for decks is the width, usually measured in inches. Deck widths typically range from 7.5” to 9” or more. Your choice depends on both your body and your skate style:

• 7.5” to 8.0” (Narrow Decks): Great for younger skaters or those with smaller feet. Narrow decks are easier to flip and maneuver for street skating.

• 8.0” to 8.5” (Medium Decks): The most versatile size for beginners. Perfect for learning tricks while still feeling stable.

• 8.5” and up (Wide Decks): Best for ramps, bowls, or cruising where stability matters more than flip tricks.

As a beginner, start with something that feels comfortable under your feet, ideally around the medium range.

2. Know Your Shape and Style

Skateboard decks come in slightly different shapes depending on how and where you want to ride:

• Popsicle Shape: Symmetrical with rounded ends. This is the standard for street and park skating.

• Cruiser or Shaped Decks: Wider noses, tails, or directional shapes. These are fun for cruising and carving but less ideal for learning technical tricks.

If your goal is to learn kickflips and ollies, a popsicle-shaped deck is the way to go. For casual cruising, a shaped or cruiser deck will feel smoother.

3. Quality Matters

Don’t get tempted by the cheapest deck you find. Quality decks are made from 7-ply Canadian maple for durability and pop. A solid deck will not only last longer but make learning tricks easier and more enjoyable. Lucky for you every board at Welcome Boardstore it top quality!

4. Personal Style

Lastly, have fun with your choice! Skateboard graphics are a big part of skate culture. While the artwork doesn’t affect performance, picking a deck you like makes it feel more personal—and you’ll be more excited to ride it.

In Short: Choose a deck that matches your foot size and skating style, aim for a medium width deck, and don’t forget to pick a graphic that makes you stoked to skate. Your first skateboard deck sets the foundation for your journey, so make it one that inspires you to get rolling. Shop now at Welcome Boardstore.