Skateboard Decks

Understanding a Skateboard Deck

The skateboard deck stands as one of the most crucial components of a skateboard. It serves as the core element of the board and significantly influences your entire riding experience and style of skateboarding. Besides offering a platform for your feet and connecting integral parts such as the trucks and grip tape, skate decks allow riders to showcase their individual style and personality. This is possible because they are available in a vast array of colour and design choices, making it straightforward to select a deck that suits your taste.

Key Features of Skateboard Decks

Contemporary skateboard decks are predominantly crafted from robust maple wood. However, it's important to recognise that there are variations in the strength of different maple kinds. Canadian maple is reputed to be the strongest and most resistant to breakage, making it the ideal choice if you seek a long-lasting deck. Another popular choice is Hard Rock Maple, known for being tough and resilient.

Skateboard decks typically exhibit a 7-ply to 9-ply wooden construction, with 7-ply being the most prevalent. This implies that the deck comprises seven to nine layers of wood compressed into a single deck, enhancing the board's durability. Furthermore, nearly every skate deck features double-kicktails, upward curves at both the nose and tail, aiding in the popping and control of the board during tricks.

Among the skateboard deck's features is concave, referring to the inward curve of the deck's surface. Low concave decks are beneficial for better foot placement due to a larger flat surface area. In contrast, a deeper concave facilitates the execution of flip tricks. Medium concave represents the most common design, striking a balance between the two.

Choosing the Right Skateboard Deck Size

Generally speaking, the dimension of the skateboard deck should align with your shoe size. The deck's size is primarily determined by its width, and it is important to ensure the tips of your shoes slightly overreach the deck's edges. This positioning aids in easier trick control.

If the deck is excessively narrow, it may hinder your balance and heighten the risk of shoe bites. This, in turn, can damage your shoes and cause you to lose control while skateboarding. Conversely, if the deck is too wide, executing certain tricks and flips may become challenging. Deck sizes ranging from 8 to 7.75 inches are considered a well-rounded starting point, offering balanced versatility.

Still uncertain about your choice? Our Skateboard Size Chart provides valuable insights into the ideal deck width for your riding style and shoe size. Further guidance on selecting the appropriate deck can be found in our Guide To Skateboard Decks.