All You Need to Know to Buy Skateboard Decks

A skateboard deck stands as a pivotal component in the world of skateboarding. Serving as the bedrock of your board, it significantly influences your overall skate experience and style. Beyond offering a sturdy platform for your feet and connecting vital parts like trucks and griptape, skate decks serve as a canvas for personal expression. With an extensive array of color and design choices, finding a deck that aligns with your style is a breeze.

Key Traits of Skateboard Decks

In today's skate scene, decks are predominantly crafted from robust maple wood. Notably, Canadian maple reigns supreme for its durability and resistance to breakage, making it the top pick for those seeking a long-lasting deck. Alternatively, Hard Rock Maple, recognized for its toughness, is another popular choice.

Most skateboard decks boast a 7-ply to 9-ply wood construction, with 7-ply being the norm. This construction involves compressing seven to nine wood layers into a deck, enhancing the board's resilience. Additionally, nearly all skate decks feature double-kicktails – those upward curves in the nose and tail that aid in popping and controlling the board during tricks.

Another defining feature is concave, the inward curvature of the deck's surface. Low concave decks offer improved foot placement due to a larger flat surface area, while deeper concave decks make flip tricks more accessible. Medium concave strikes a balance between the two and is the most prevalent design.

Choosing the Right Skateboard Deck Size

As a general guideline, your skateboard deck size should match your shoe size. The deck width is the primary determinant, and it's crucial to ensure that the tips of your shoes extend slightly beyond the deck. This ensures better control during tricks.

Opting for a deck that's too narrow can disrupt your balance and elevate the risk of shoe bites, potentially damaging both your shoes and your skateboarding experience. Conversely, an excessively wide deck may hinder certain tricks and flips. Starting with an 8 to 7.75-inch skateboard deck is a well-rounded choice for most riders.

Still uncertain about your choice? Consult our Skateboard Size Chart for guidance on choosing the ideal deck width based on your riding style and shoe size. For more insights, delve into our comprehensive Guide to Skateboard Decks.