SKATEBOARDING 101

WHAT SIZE BOARD SHOULD I BUY?

The answer to this is "It depends." If you are a fully grown human, this is a very personal preference. Some adults like to skate an 8" deck and others a 7.75" or an 8.5". Typically if you are a larger frame or have bigger feet, you will want a wider deck. As for kids, the smaller decks are great for smaller kids because they will be lighter. We offer some mini decks (7", 7.25" and 7.5") which will also be a bit shorter in length with a shorter wheelbase. For kids learning to skate vert ramps, a wider board is preferred. We have had 7 year old team riders who prefer to ride an 8.1" and others who prefer to ride a 7.75". Generally speaking, for kids 6 and under, pick a deck 7"-7.5" and for kids 7 and older 7.75"-8.25". If a child is on the taller size, you can go to the bigger end of the range, and if your child is on the shorter size, pick a deck on the smaller side. 

General Guideline:

	5 YEARS OR YOUNGER	6 - 8 YEARS	8 YEARS AND OLDER
SKATEBOARD WIDTH (INCHES)	7 - 7.5	7.5 - 7.75	7.75 - 8.25
RIDER HEIGHT	UNDER 3'4" (102 CM)	3'5" - 4'4" (102 - 130 CM)	4'5" - 5'2" (130 - 160 CM)
RIDER SHOE SIZE (US MEN'S)	3 OR SMALLER	4 - 6	7 - 8

 

If you just want to be READY TO ROLL, check out our 7.75" and 8" completes!

I BOUGHT A DECK. YAE! WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO SET UP MY BOARD?

1. Trucks

The size of the trucks depends on the size of your deck. Keep in mind that all truck brands have their own unique sizing. Independent trucks are some of the best and offer all different size options for a range of deck sizes. Ace trucks 11 also offer trucks for our smaller decks sized 7"-7.5". You can also check out Independent's size chart HERE and MAKE SURE and match up your truck size with the width of your deck. 

2. Mounting Hardware--this is used to secure the trucks to the board. One set of 7/8" length (8 nuts & 8 bolts). 7/8" length if you don't use risers (most people don't use risers) but you can reference the size chart below and get your hardware HERE. 

3. Wheels

Have fun picking out your wheels! CCS has lots to choose from or check out your local skate shop. Generally Speaking, you can follow these guidelines: 

PARK / STREET WHEELS

Diameter 50-60mm, Durometer 95-101a

These hard wheels are the best skateboard wheels for park and street skating because they are lightweight, roll fast on smooth surfaces, and slide easily. This makes it easier to do ollies, flip tricks, power slides, and other technical tricks. For smaller kids you want to go toward the smaller size of 50-52mm

CRUISER / SOFT WHEELS

Diameter 54-60mm, Durometer 78-90a

Cruiser skateboard wheels, or soft skateboard wheels, are usually slightly bigger and much softer than park/street wheels. Built to fit on any deck and roll fast on any surface, throw on some cruiser wheels for a smooth ride that makes any skateboard a fun and fast way to get around town. Cruiser wheels are also referred to as filmer wheels because they roll smoother and handle rough pavement better, providing a steadier shot.

4. Bearings

Skate bearings are donut shaped metal devices that allow a wheel to roll faster and smoother by reducing friction. Unlike the wheels in which they fit into, all bearings have the same dimensions- 8mm (inner diameter), 22mm (outer diameter), and 7mm (width).

Any of the bearings sold HERE will perform. You can also learn more about bearings and their rating system HERE. 

NOTE TO BEGINNERS: If you are picking out your very first set of bearings, go with an inexpensive steel option. This will give you as much performance value as you’ll need, and won’t hurt your wallet. You can find decent steel bearings for under $25 anywhere skateboards are sold.

5. Grip Tape

MAKE IT FUN! There are lots of fun options HERE! 

 LASTLY, get yourself a good fitting skate helmet and pads (elbow, knee and wrist guards). Nutcase, S1 and Triple 8 are all great choices.

NOW YOU'RE READY TO ROLL!